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.

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.

Sonja Parker

Director of Modelling & Talent

Sonja is passionate about inclusivity in the fashion and creative industries, normalising our differences. Sonja grew up in The Netherlands and the UK but relocated to Sydney in 2005.

When she was a teenager, she lived in Thailand for a few years, and that’s where her first experience in modelling runway shows and photo shoots began.

Her journey to becoming a mentor for Model mates is diverse. Sonja spent a decade based in London as a flight attendant. Then, in 2004, she studied at Steiner College, completed the CIBTAG Diploma, and worked for several years as a beauty therapist in Sydney before marrying and becoming a mum of two sons.

Since 2013, Sonja has been a Community Support Worker. Her diverse role is working with various people, providing in-home care and disability support. In 2018, she was signed on as a model with Silverfox MGMT.

Sonja is a crucial part of the Model Mates team, sharing her experience and knowledge built over the years. Experience in e-commerce, commercial photography, lifestyle shoots and runway shows.