Join today

Real stories

What does a YFS experience feel like when you’re actually there?

Hear from participants and families about the preparation, the runway, the nerves, the confidence and the moments they carried home.

“At first, I was a little nervous, but seeing the audience and the photographers made me feel proud and excited.”
Roman Peterman · Show participant

Interviews

The YFS experience, in their own words.

Featured stories

Dreyden’s story

From the runway to a real brand opportunity

Peyton and Dreyden joined YFS with no modeling experience. After the show, Dreyden was invited by one of the participating brands to a professional photoshoot in Chicago.

First-time model
No modeling experience before YFS
Real YFS runway
YFS Chicago 2025
Brand reached out
Invited to a professional photoshoot

“We received beautiful professional photos and videos, and most importantly, my children gained a lot of confidence.”

From questions to experience

What families wanted to know before show day

  • “This is my daughter’s first time doing runway.”

    Taneil MackParent

  • “It’s my first time, and I’m really excited.”

    Anastasiia KostykShow participant

  • “I feel excited, and this is my first experience in a model show.”

    Tetiana HrabetsShow participant

One YFS experience. Two perspectives.

Roman walking the YFS Chicago runway for Hoola

The participant

“At first I was a little nervous — but it was easy, and I really enjoyed it. My walk, posture and confidence are next level now.”

Roman Peterman · Show participant

Roman and his mother Melissa on the YFS red carpet

The parent

“Professional, large-scale, emotional — and an experience we didn’t expect. My heart is bursting with pride and joy watching him soak up this unforgettable experience.”

Melissa D. · Mom of Roman

Preparation, backstage and show day

Next on the runway

Your story could start in Chicago.

December 13, 2026 · Palmer House Hilton

Tetiana Hrabets · Show participant

Aleksey Karban · Show participant

Polina Chorn · Show participant

Kristian Berenshtein · Family experience

Emily Mohylchak · Show participant

Susan Lunetta · President, Exxcel Model & Talent, Inc.

Alexia Smith · Show participant

Sandra & Sabrina · Family experience

Blythe Browne · Show participant

Peyton Wells · Show participant

Roman · Show participant

Apply to YFS

Choose how you want to be part of the next YFS experience.

Take the runway

Kids · Teens · Adults

Work with YFS