Trust the process and your hard work will pay off. Fighting for what’s right and speaking out against injustice may be difficult, terrifying, and sometimes lonely. While you may not get the outcome that you hope for in the end, speaking out will still create discussions among the general public and that is just as important.
There was one protest that has proven to us that hard work, patience, and perseverance really do pay off. Last month, Alicia Amin stood up to Andrew Tan, the founder of KL Fashion Week regarding delayed payments to models from previous years. She shared more details about her protest during KL Fashion Week as well as the outcome of her efforts.
Model and actress Alicia Amin made a courageous move and protested against the Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week’s payment issue during the first week of the event. The 27-year-old was seen standing outside the event venue holding up a sign that read, “All models this year to be paid within the day. Those still waiting for Andrew’s payment from previous years, come speak to me”.
Speaking to Gempak at the “Rasuk” premiere yesterday (Wednesday, 22nd September), the actress gave updates on the outcome of her bold protest. “I’m glad my efforts have been recognised and received positive feedback. 8 individuals who came up to me before have now received their payment for their work,” she said. She also revealed that there are still three models that are waiting for their payment which has been promised at the end of this month.
The model also revealed that law firms have offered their assistance in taking this case to court but she rejected the offer as she has already talked it over with the event organiser should they fail to pay the models as promised.
When asked if she was offended that no other models joined her in the protest, she answered, “I don’t blame any of them cause I understand. They just want to make it in the industry. They’ve thanked me for doing it while we’re all backstage”. Alicia also clarified that she still believes that KL Fashion Week is a wonderful platform for models and designers to showcase their talents.
She has proven to us that speaking out can definitely help make a difference. If you believe in an idea and use your platform to fight against injustice, people will follow your lead and even fight alongside you. Let’s hope her story inspires more people to stand up for what’s right.
