OUR TEAM
The Agency
Model MATES is led by a team of experienced professionals in the fashion and talent representation industry.
Randa Habelrih
CEO
Randa Habelrih, a visionary leader and advocate for inclusivity, is the CEO of Model MATES and Autism MATES. With a passion for empowering individuals with diverse abilities, Randa has been at the forefront of fostering positive change in the fashion industry and the lives of those on the autism spectrum.
Randa brings a wealth of business acumen and marketing expertise to her leadership roles. With a distinguished background in marketing, Randa has successfully navigated the intricacies of the industry, demonstrating a strategic approach and innovative mindset.
As the CEO of Model MATES, Randa has successfully orchestrated numerous events, breaking barriers, and redefining beauty standards. Her innovative approach to showcasing models with different abilities has garnered industry recognition and has become a driving force in promoting diversity within the fashion realm.
Simultaneously, in her role as CEO of Autism MATES, Randa has spearheaded initiatives dedicated to fostering inclusion and empowerment for individuals on the autism spectrum. Her commitment to creating supportive communities and providing meaningful opportunities reflects a deep understanding of the unique strengths and challenges faced by those with autism.
Randa’s leadership is not only marked by her extensive business experience and event management but also by her personal connection to the cause, in raising her son Richard, who is on the autism spectrum. Richard is her driving force and inspiration. With a profound belief in the power of diversity and the potential for positive societal change, Randa Habelrih continues to lead both Model MATES and Autism MATES, driving forward a mission of empowerment, inclusivity, and celebration of individual uniqueness.
Bernadette Payne
Director of Styling
Bernadette Payne is an accomplished, award-winning stylist with a unique approach to working with each client.
In 2014, she founded That’s My Style; her passion lies in helping women and men identify their personal style and giving them the tools to choose pieces that make them feel empowered and confident.
Before launching That’s My Style, Bernadette spent over 20 years in the fashion industry, buying and manufacturing fashion lines for some of Australia’s leading retailers.
Over the past seven years, Bernadette has taken on the role of head stylist for Model Mates. She collaborates with Westfields, Australian designers, retailers, and expo organizers. The event features models of different ages and abilities and is about inclusivity. It provides a platform for models to showcase their capabilities and be part of a community that values and celebrates them. In her role, she strives to highlight the models’ personalities by selecting clothes that inspire confidence and allow them to walk on the catwalk with ease and joy. This event consistently reaffirms the incredible power of clothing and styling.
Kiri Brain
Head of Operations
Having over 20 years of experience spanning key business functions, including Human Resources, Marketing, Business Development, Operations, Finance, and IT – Kiri brings a wealth of expertise to deliver innovative solutions that balance a competitive edge with commercial realities.
With over 10 years leading national organisations in roles of CEO and COO, Kiri has developed a unique perspective on managing and scaling businesses in dynamic, competitive environments. Her leadership is marked by her ability to implement transformative strategies that align with organisational goals, foster sustainable growth, and deliver high-quality outcomes.
As Head of Operations for Model MATES, Kiri is pivotal in driving operational excellence, ensuring the seamless execution of all programs and events, fostering a culture that empowers individuals and celebrates their unique abilities.
Kiri’s achievements have been widely recognised, including being named Executive of the Year at the 2020 Women in Law Awards and COO of the Year at the 2019 Executive Awards by CEO Magazine. These accolades reflect her dedication to leading with vision, innovation, and impact.
Jessica Grace
Director of Modelling & Talent
Jessica Grace is a prominent and highly respected figure in the fashion industry. With her diverse skill set and vast experience, Jessica Grace seamlessly combines her roles as a fashion model herself, mentor/coach and a motivational speaker, making her a true powerhouse in the industry.
As an accomplished fashion model, Jessica Grace has graced the runways of renowned fashion shows and represented esteemed brands with elegance and grace. Her expertise in the field is evident in her exceptional poise, versatility, and ability to captivate audiences with her striking presence.
Beyond her successful modelling career, Jessica Grace has carved a niche as a renowned motivational speaker. Her insightful and inspiring talks have touched the lives of countless individuals, leaving a lasting impact on audiences across the globe. Her ability to connect with people on a profound level and instill a sense of empowerment is truly remarkable.
With a unique combination of beauty, talent, and charisma, Jessica Grace brings a refreshing perspective to the fashion industry. Her dedication to inspiring and empowering others is evident in every aspect of her work, making her a role model and an influential figure in the industry.
John Eussen
Presenter | MC | Publicity
John Eussen is a highly respected industry professional with more than 25 years of experience across Australia’s fashion, interior design, health and lifestyle sectors.
His extensive career spans corporate leadership, creative direction, marketing, media, publicity and public speaking. John previously held Managing Director positions with two multinational textile companies before moving into brand strategy, marketing, promotions and media.
An accomplished presenter and MC, John has worked with Grand Designs Live Australia and the National Home Shows, where he has been a regular presenter and MC for more than a decade. He has also presented and lectured at Torrens University Australia and Billy Blue College of Design.
His media experience includes radio announcing on 2UE, television presenting on TVSN and appearances across major Australian media networks. He has also contributed expert commentary to The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and Sky News Australia.
Passionate about mentoring and giving back to the community, John is a valued member of the Model MATES industry mentor team, generously sharing his knowledge, industry connections and experience to help aspiring models with disability build confidence, develop their presentation skills and explore opportunities within the industry.
John is also an Australian Ambassador for Bowel Cancer Australia and a Youth Mentor with the Raise Foundation.
His wealth of experience, engaging personality and genuine commitment to supporting others make him an invaluable part of the Model MATES team.
