Scout has an eye for talent

Roxanne Smith isn't afraid to walk up to people at a shopping mall and tell them that they have a unique look, and then ask if they've ever considered modeling.

In fact, she said, “Ninety percent of the time people are interested. They are flattered and want to hear more about it.”

It's part of her job, as a model and talent scout, to seek out the new faces here in Iowa.

“I want to be the opportunity for these kids,” Smith said. “I want to be the tool to make their dreams come true. I am kind of like a dream maker.”

Smith started her business a year ago and works as a director for the International Model and Talent Association (IMTA), a model and talent scouting organizations.

She admitted it's hard to describe just what she's looking for in new clients.

“You have to know the industry,” she said. “A person has to have the ‘it factor,' a very unique and special look.”

While she said it can be hard to break into the industry when living in the Midwest, Smith hopes to change that with her business.

“We have great people here. And the industry loves to work with people from Iowa because we are fresh, have good values and work ethics,” she said.

To the surprise of some of those on the coasts, Smith has found early success with her agency. During her most recent trip to New York City in July for IMTA's semiannual scouting convention, five of her models walked away with major accolades at the premiere scouting event.

Rachel Turner, 16 of Muscatine, for example, won most sought-after female model, while Kayleigh Whitford, 19 of Marion, received the first-runner-up award. Both girls are now living in New York City and have signed with modeling agencies.

Another of Smith's models, Ben Schreen of Iowa City, won most-sought-after male model and is now living in Los Angeles.

Her son, Riley Smith, is currently in the cast of “90210” on the CW network and was discovered in Cedar Rapids back in 1997. He, as with Smith's clients today, got his start at an IMTA competition.

Always on the lookout for fresh faces, Smith frequents events such as football games and show choir competitions, even the Iowa State Fair.

“I scout every where I go,” she said. “My eyes are always open and aware.”

Name: Roxanne Smith

Title: Owner

Company: Creation Model and Talent Management

Phone: (319) 651-5858

Website: https//www.facebook.com/creation.mothermanagement

Know a manager or business open at least a year that should be considered for “My Biz”? Contact business editor Michael Chevy Castranova at michael.castranova@sourcemedia.net.