An ambitious lad, tennis enthusiast Ethan Law recently took his first steps into the Malaysian fashion industry. He was also chosen as one of the young faces of a global brand.
12-year-old makes way into modelling world
Young Ethan Law strutted confidently on the makeshift stage of the Old Courthouse, Kuching recently.
Despite being his first time on stage, the 12-year-old enjoyed the experience as he was able to flaunt the clothes of local brand Yacutha by fashion designer Yacub Taha.
When met recently, the young man was asked, “Would you consider modelling as a career in the future?” and he had answered with a resounding yes, which amused his mother.
Modelling, according to the lad, is an exciting and enjoyable activity.
“We had three days to prepare for my first fashion show. On the day itself, we were given time to relax and prepare to walk out.”
Ethan recalled feeling a sudden burst of nervousness as he took his first steps, as the surrounding area was filled with audiences waiting for a performance.
“I just had faith in myself that I could do it, that I could walk the runway. So, I did, and everyone began clapping and cheering. That’s what motivated me to walk.”
The mother-son duo flew to Kuala Lumpur the next day after the fashion show as Ethan had been chosen to participate in a two-day photoshoot for well-known sports retailer, JD Sports. Ethan’s manager, Apple Green Luna, informed them of the opportunity.
“We are grateful for this opportunity because it does not come along very often,” said Ethan’s mother, Grace Law.
His endeavour into a new experience had given him confidence. The result of the shoot was decked out at various JD Sports branches in West Malaysia as well as those in Indonesia and the Philippines.
“There were also other models present during the photoshoot. The director taught me what to do and how to do it better. We had to shoot from 8am to 7pm on the first day,” Ethan said, adding that the photoshoot took place outdoors.
“It was difficult at times to do what the director had asked me to do, so it may take several attempts just to finish,” he said.
Ethan pursued his newfound passion despite the tiring but insightful experience. And when he saw himself on the shop’s advertisement board, he felt a sense of achievement.
“My parents bought clothing and sports equipment for me from JD Sports here. So, seeing myself there made me happy and proud.”
An interest in sports
Ethan is an avid sportsperson at school. Despite dabbling in a variety of sports such as football and futsal, he admits that tennis will always be his main sport.
“I’m hoping to be a professional player!” he exclaimed excitedly.
Sports and his favourite subject, Physical Education, hold a special place in his heart. He loves them because “it’s fun and I get to exercise and it’s also good for health.”
Though he only mentions modelling and sports during the interview, the jack of all trades revealed that he wants to be many things when he grows up.
“Like, if I am good at tennis, I can go pro. But I would also want to be a lawyer. So, if tennis doesn’t work out, I can study law.”
My son, my pride
Seated beside him, his mother, Grace expressed her pride in the person Ethan is becoming. Her son, she said, had always had a knack for trying new things. Nonetheless, her endless support throughout Ethan’s life was what encouraged the teenager to continue on a positive path.
“While education is still a top priority for us, we also believe that it is important to always support our children because it encourages them to pursue their interests. Whatever his interests are, we always encourage him to continue and do his best.”
Grace said that as a parent, she has always given him options to choose from as long as he is happy to do so. Sharing further, Ethan’s father, Andrew Peter Law, said that with the experience of letting him choose, they also explained the consequences of certain choices.
Mission to find more Bornean talent
Always proud of those she manages, manager Apple Green Luna often emphasises the importance of scouting more Bornean talent in order for them to rise among the best.
“It is challenging for a Sarawakian child talent to become the face of a global brand. It took me two years to finally close the deal for Ethan. The issue isn’t Ethan, but rather the market’s competitiveness.”
As his manager, Apple believed that Ethan has a face that belongs in the Malaysian fashion industry.
“So, I was glad when I was able to close this deal for him.”
Apple, who was born and raised in Kuching, is now based in Kuala Lumpur and is always on the lookout for more Sarawakian talent.
“In the future, I hope to be able to open more doors for Sarawak’s local talents,” she added.
