A very special event celebrating diverse talent in the modelling industry, is set to excite the fashion industry this month, led by an award-winning Southport entrepreneur, fashion designer and previous Ms Curvaceous UK.
Debbie-Lyn Connolly-Lloyd – who is taking the Inclusive Fashion Show to Birmingham on 21st June 2025 and showcasing North West based models on the catwalk – had already sold out three events locally, attracting hundreds of attendees from across the UK to the North West.
Guests have included industry professionals in hair, beauty, fashion and film, along with casting agents, influencers and celebrities.
Founder Debbie-Lyn of DL Models is now excited to showcase more models of diversity, in one of the most diverse cities, at Great Barr Hotel in Birmingham, hosted in collaboration with global influencer company, Sintillate Talent.
Debbie-Lyn, 43, has been an MUA working in the fashion and entertainment industry for the last 10 years and has now dedicated her work to empowering models from all backgrounds to thrive. No stranger to the spotlight she has enjoyed screen success as a supporting actor in Netflix smash Fool Me Once alongside Michele Keegan, as well as also featuring in shows such as Missing You with Ashley Walters, TOWIE, Casualty, Boiling Point, Domino Day – alongside building up her modelling career as a plus size model.
Battling with ADHD and also suffering from a brain disorder called FND (Functional Neurological Disorder), which means that she often has to use a wheelchair, she is not one to accept forced limitations. Her commitment to inclusivity and her fierce advocacy for talent inspires confidence and resilience in the models she mentors, having developed her own career path from makeup artist, to curve model, to business owner now guiding others within the industry.
The Inclusive Fashion Show in Birmingham aptly named Culture In Motion, will showcase models including Feya Wenham, a disabled plus size model an artist from Manchester with chronic health conditions who faces the world ‘always with a smile on her face’; and North West based trans female model Willow Davies.
A passionate advocate for disabled creatives, Debbie-Lyn is also a fashion designer, having created several collections, all of which are sustainable and take influence from ethnic fashion and art deco glamour.
The Inclusive Fashion Show blends all her passions and is a celebration of diversity, focusing on models of all shapes, sizes, abilities, and backgrounds, showcasing adaptive fashion for disabled people alongside conventional collections. The aim is to bring greater visibility to the importance of representation in fashion by promoting designers who are paving the way for inclusive, accessible fashion for all.
Alongside Debbie’s designs via DL Sustainable Apparel, designers featured in this show include Liverpool based brand Serephic who specialise in leisure wear, Southport based brand Fighting For Fair Fashion, created to make a bold statement about inclusion in fashion and the events headline sponsor, popular north west based brand Topsy Curvy Plus Size Fashion who provide trendy options for those sizes UK 14-30!
Debbie-Lyn said of the event: “With the Inclusive Fashion Show we’re creating more than just an event—we’re creating a movement. This show is about giving real beauty a platform, making it more accessible, and celebrating the diversity that makes every body unique. We’re
redefining what it means to belong on a runway, with models who represent all abilities, identities, and walks of life—from those with disabilities to neurological differences, curve models, LGBTQ+, and trans individuals.
“As a plus-size model living with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) and ADHD, l’ve faced my fair share of challenges. Fashion has not always been kind to people like me. I’ve experienced the sting of being overlooked, judged, or excluded simply because I don’t fit traditional beauty standards. Living with FND, a condition that affects how my brain and body
communicate, brings its own set of challenges. Some days are harder than others, and balancing that with the relentless energy of ADHD can feel overwhelming. But these experiences have given me a unique perspective-and a deep empathy for others who feel unseen.”
Local models who have seen their careers take off from the North West based events include
Manchester based Ellie Prendergast, who since featuring in the Inclusive Fashion Show at Southport has been signed to an international modelling agency and Esmae Sheldon from Runcorn, who had zero modelling experience, but after an empowering styled shoot, stepped onto the runway like a pro and is now modelling professionally for Topsy Curvy and just signed with one of the top talent agencies in the UK.
Debbie Lyn said: “We’re beyond thrilled to be launching not just fashion shows, but actual careers- we’re making waves and we’re only just getting started! Our mission isn’t just to showcase talent—it’s to create opportunities, connect people with industry pros, and help emerging models and designers take their careers to the next level.
“For as long as I can remember, I’ve dreamed of a world where fashion embraces every body-where no one feels left out, invisible, or unworthy and I’m excited to be bringing this to life. When I see models of all shapes, sizes, and abilities step onto the runway, l’m reminded why I push through the tough days. Some of them are walking a runway for the first time, unsure if they belong there. But the moment they hear the cheers and feel the love, their confidence grows, and they radiate joy. It’s transformative-for them and for everyone watching.”
The tour also opens up conversations about inclusion, with workshops and panels tackling topics like representation, self-esteem, and accessibility.
Debbie said: “DL Models Ltd believes in working with diverse aspiring models to develop their knowledge, resilience and skills so that they can enter the professional fashion industry. We believe that developing a person’s mind, body and spirit is key to their success. Our MISSION is to nurture a positive mindset, teach confidence, foster an environment for body acceptance, and engage them in community style events where they feel they belong. Our VISION is to deliver the dream of being a successful fashion model no matter what a person’s age, size, height, gender or disability, and increase representation within fashion.”
Within her first year of business Debbie-Lyn has attracted award nominations and accolades including Pride Of Sefton Award for Diversity & Inclusion; Business Success Network Award – Against All Odds; She Inspires Award- Agent Of Change; BBC Make A Difference Award; 2 Female Business Awards – Diversity, Equality & Inclusion, and Change-maker & Innovator; Global Woman Award Top 100 Women Entrepreneurs Globally and Flamingo Business Award- Change Maker.
For more info or to purchase tickets see www.dlmodelsltd.com
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