Pākōlea Agency and Academy

Modeling that allows the models to shine from within. We believe that internally is what truly matters.

@darinjphotography

@darinjphotography

About Our Brand

At Pākōlea, we believe in growth, inspiration, and empowerment. Our name itself means "to grow and inspire in a desired direction", which reflects our mission of nurturing talent while fostering confidence and creativity in every individual who joins our community.

We are more than just a modeling academy—we are a family where everyone is welcomed and accepted, regardless of their background, experience, or appearance. Our motto, “Internally is what truly matters,” highlights our commitment to cultivating not just external poise and skill, but also inner strength, self-love, and authenticity.

At Pākōlea, we offer hands-on workshops, content days, fashion shows, photoshoots, and exclusive events to help our models refine their craft and gain real-world experience. Our team bonding days ensure that every model feels supported, connected, and empowered on their journey. Best of all, we believe in growth at your own pace—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced model, we provide the tools, opportunities, and guidance to help you reach your full potential.

Pākōlea is not just about modeling—it’s about confidence, community, and creating opportunities. Together, we grow, we inspire, and we thrive.

Our Services

@darinjphotography

  • At Pākōlea, we believe in the power of storytelling through visual art, which is why we host Themed Content Days that allow our models to explore different styles and aesthetics. These shoots are designed to challenge creativity, build confidence, and expand portfolios in unique ways.

    So far, we’ve curated:

    • Cultural Shoots – Honoring heritage and traditions through stunning imagery that captures the essence of identity.

    • Bikini Shoots – Embracing confidence and body positivity in swimwear photography.

    • Editorial Shoots – High-fashion, magazine-style shoots that highlight artistic expression and versatility.

    Each content day is a chance to step into a new creative role, refine posing techniques, and showcase adaptability in front of the camera. These experiences not only enhance a model’s portfolio but also help them gain exposure while having fun in a supportive environment.

  • For those looking for personalized coaching, Kyani Bateman offers one-on-one training to refine skills, boost confidence, and build a solid foundation in the modeling industry. These private sessions cover:
    Runway Walking – Perfecting presence, posture, and the signature walk for different types of runway shows.
    Posing for All Styles of Modeling – From commercial to editorial, Kyani provides expert guidance on how to move and express naturally in front of the camera.
    Career Building – Understanding the industry, creating a strong portfolio, networking, and branding yourself as a model.

    Kyani’s coaching is designed to meet models where they are and provide them with the knowledge and skillset to thrive in a competitive industry.

  • Our Pākōlea workshops are hands-on experiences tailored to help models develop their skills while building their portfolios. These workshops are structured to teach essential industry techniques while incorporating live photoshoots with our professional photographer. This way, models not only learn but also leave with high-quality images that showcase their progress.

    Workshops focus on:
    Runway Training & Posing Techniques
    Expression & Confidence Building
    Working with Lighting & Movement in Photography

    Each session is an opportunity to grow, experiment, and develop a professional portfolio, ensuring that our models are ready for the industry with tangible results from every workshop.

  • We create collaborative photoshoot opportunities with established brands, providing our models with real-world experience and valuable industry connections. Through these collaborations, models get to:

    Be Featured on Brand Pages – Expanding their audience and gaining recognition.
    Develop Professional Experience – Working with creative teams, stylists, and photographers in a structured brand setting.
    Enhance Their Portfolio – Showcasing work with reputable brands to attract future opportunities.

    These shoots not only build credibility and visibility but also help models understand brand aesthetics, marketing, and professional expectations in a commercial setting.

  • Pākōlea provides access to paid modeling opportunities, ensuring that our models are recognized and compensated for their talent and hard work. Many brands come to us first when they need models for campaigns, giving our talent priority in booking opportunities.

    💰 Paid shoots include:
    Brand Campaigns & Commercial Shoots
    Fashion Editorials & Product Shoots
    Sponsored Events & Exclusive Collaborations

    Our goal is to turn passion into profession by offering real-world opportunities that help our models grow their careers while being paid for their work.

  • We work directly with brands looking to collaborate with our models through apparel, products, and services. These collaborations allow models to receive exclusive items or services in exchange for their work, giving them both experience and value.

    🔹 Apparel & Fashion Partnerships – Models receive clothing, accessories, or custom pieces for promotional shoots.
    🔹 Beauty & Lifestyle Collaborations – Opportunities to work with skincare, makeup, fitness, and wellness brands.
    🔹 Networking & Growth – Connecting models with industry professionals for future opportunities.

    These partnerships not only allow our models to expand their professional reach but also help them build relationships with brands that could lead to even greater opportunities in the future.

Meet the Team

Kyani Bateman and Darin Hiraldo: the founders of Pākōlea

@darinjphotography


  • Founder/Model Coach

    I have been modeling for 6 years now in just about every style you can think of. I coach workshops that teach posing, walking, wardrobe, makeup, hair and more! I can’t wait to help you all throughout your journey!

@darinjphotography

  • Founder/Photographer

    I bring 5+ years of experience as a self-taught photographer working across various shooting styles. My goal and promise to you is that I will take your creative ideas and make it a reality through my lens.

Follow us on social

@darinjphotography

@darinjphotography

@darinjphotography

Contact Us

@darinjphotography

 FAQs

  • No experience is required! We welcome all levels, from beginners to experienced models. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your skills, we provide training, workshops, and photoshoots to help you grow at your own pace.

  • Pākōlea covers a variety of modeling styles, including:
    Runway & Fashion
    Editorial & High-Fashion
    Commercial & Print
    Swimwear & Fitness
    Brand Collaborations & Social Media Modeling

    Our coaching and events cater to different styles, allowing models to explore their strengths and find their niche in the industry.

  • You can sign up for workshops and one-on-one coaching by contacting us through Instagram, email, or our official booking page (if applicable). We announce upcoming events and sessions on our social media, so be sure to follow us to stay updated!

  • Yes, there is an entry fee. However, Pākōlea offers both free and paid opportunities depending on the event or service. While some workshops, content days, and coaching sessions may require a fee, we also provide collaborative shoots and paid modeling gigs where models can earn compensation or receive brand-sponsored items.

  • We partner with brands looking for models to represent their apparel, products, or services. In return, models may receive:
    Exposure on brand pages
    Products or apparel to keep
    Paid opportunities (depending on the collaboration)

    These experiences help our models gain industry recognition while expanding their portfolios and connections.

  • Many brands come to us first when looking for models for their campaigns. We prioritize our trained models and those who have participated in our workshops, content days, or brand collaborations. When a paid opportunity arises, we match models with the right fit and reach out directly for booking.

  • We provide guidelines for each event, but general recommendations include:
    Neutral or fitted clothing for workshops (to see posture and movement)
    Basic heels for runway practice
    Minimal makeup (unless specified otherwise)
    Any required outfits for themed shoots

    We also encourage models to bring water, touch-up makeup, and confidence!

  • We provide training, exposure, and networking opportunities to help models advance in their careers. By participating in:
    📸 Workshops & Photoshoots – To build a professional portfolio.
    📢 Brand Collaborations – To gain industry exposure.
    💰 Paid Shoots – To turn modeling into a professional opportunity.
    📈 One-on-One Coaching – To refine skills and personal branding.

    Consistency, dedication, and actively engaging with our opportunities will help you grow as a model!