Model makes final of International competition

The English teacher from Roxborough Avenue, Isleworth, decided to enter the competition while working in Bologna, Italy in a secondary school.

"The high fashion modelling industry there inspired me, particularly as a potential fashion model of colour.

"As well as my personal passion to achieve success in the modelling industry, I also became curious about the lack of representation for models of colour in Italy and wanted to contribute to the breakthrough for a change in this area of the industry."

Charlene will be travelling to a five star hotel in the Gambia in December to take place in the final and has now left her job in Italy and returned to Isleworth to prepare for the event, which she describes as "an opportunity of a lifetime".

The competition winner will win a year's contract with Mahogany Model Management, £1,000 cash and numerous magazine shoots.

"Since gaining a finalist position I have had many unforgettable experiences such as TV appearances and am enjoying being back in Isleworth.

"I have gone from being a rather strict teacher to a fashion model - I just wonder what my students would say."