When the lights go up at the Voice of Courage Fashion Show on 14 August, audiences will see elegant designer garments, confident models and a polished runway production. But behind every step is choreographer Averil Packirisamy, whose passion for empowering women has become just as important as the fashion itself.
For Packirisamy, a runway is about far more than showcasing clothing. It is about restoring confidence, telling stories and creating moments that can change lives.
A modelling career that started with one class
Packirisamy never imagined she would build a career in modelling.
In the 1980s, her sister Vivienne Marks convinced her to attend a class at Modscene, despite her insisting that modelling “was not for me.”
That one class changed everything.
She later joined leading modelling agency Fashions Unlimited under Barbara Robertson and Michelle Brown, with Brown becoming an influential mentor during the early years of her career.
Today, Packirisamy leads Premiere Models Academy, where she trains models to walk with confidence while developing professionalism and self-belief.
More than just a fashion show
Three years ago, Packirisamy became involved with the Voice of Courage Fashion Show after her niece, Toni Marks, asked her to help create a fundraising fashion event for women affected by gender-based violence.
One request, however, stood out.
Marks wanted women from Yokhuselo Haven to walk the runway alongside professional models in designer garments.
Packirisamy says she still remembers seeing the women smiling as they experienced professional hair, makeup and designer fashion for the first time.
“For them it was like a dream come true. They felt empowered,” she says.
That experience cemented her belief that fashion can restore dignity as much as it can celebrate style.
Standing against gender-based violence
While audiences can expect a colourful and entertaining production, Packirisamy says the event carries a much deeper purpose.
“The Voice of Courage Fashion Show is so much more than beautiful designer garments and beautiful models. It’s about giving hope, restoring dignity, empowering women and standing firm against gender-based violence.”
She believes every woman deserves to feel safe, valued and respected, adding that the event is about raising both funds and awareness while reminding survivors they are not alone.
Creating confidence on the runway
Unlike dance performances or stage productions, Packirisamy says runway choreography focuses on presenting each designer’s collection in the best possible way.
Her models attend weekly runway classes where they learn confidence, posture and professional presentation.
She also spends time researching international fashion shows, studying current trends, selecting music that complements each collection and embracing diversity on the runway by featuring models of different ages, sizes and backgrounds.
“I feel the runway is for everyone,” she says.
Helping mothers rediscover themselves
Packirisamy’s passion for empowerment extends beyond fashion shows.
Five years ago she launched Mom’s on the Runway, a modelling programme designed specifically for mothers.
The classes help women rebuild confidence through posture, grooming and runway training, while creating a supportive space for those navigating life’s challenges, including broken relationships.
The initiative now has a full class in Malabar and recently expanded to Summerstrand.
An evening with heart
As preparations continue for this year’s production, Packirisamy says putting the show together is like completing a puzzle, with every detail contributing to the final picture.
Her hope is that everyone who attends leaves believing that communities can work together to create a safer, kinder future for women and children.
“The Voice of Courage Fashion Show” takes place on 14 August 2026 at the Boardwalk ICC from 6pm to 10pm.
Hosted by Boardwalk Hotel and Casino and Camelot Spa, the event raises funds for Yokhuselo Haven, which provides shelter and support to women and children affected by domestic abuse, and Community Chest, which funds community upliftment initiatives across Nelson Mandela Bay.
Tickets cost R200 per person.
Why this matters for Nelson Mandela Bay
The Voice of Courage Fashion Show highlights how fashion can become a platform for hope and healing. Beyond the glamour, the event shines a spotlight on organisations supporting vulnerable women and children while encouraging the Nelson Mandela Bay community to stand together against gender-based violence.
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