It’s just three short weeks until Charleston Fashion Week’s (CFW) annual Rock the Runway Model Competition. On Friday, March 23, the top five female and male CFW models—as selected by participating boutique owners and designers—will be scored on walk, appearance, and personality. And with the impressive line-up of judges—Karen Lee Grybowski, director of scouting for Elite Model Management; Molly O’Connell, CFW model alum and runner-up on America’s Next Top Model, Cycle 16; and Cynthia Bailey, international supermodel and cast member of The Real Housewives of Atlanta—watching their every move, these emerging talents will surely be giving it all they’ve got to launch their careers. And did we mention the Grand Prizes include $1,000; gift baskets from The Cos Bar; makeovers and gifts from Paul Mitchell, the School of Charleston; and Michael Kors watches from REEDS Jewelers?

Last year’s Rock the Runway female winner, South Sudanese beauty Ajang Majok, has since moved to New York; secured a contract with international agency BMG Models; was featured in the Gilt Groupe’s online campaign; and even made the cover of Oscar de la Renta: Fashion & Design at the Mint Museum, a companion book to the renowned designer’s show in Charlotte last spring. If Ajang’s track record is any indicator, our 10 model finalists certainly will provide a whole lot of strut, swagger, and excitement to the CFW runway.

To buy tickets to Friday night’s shows, click here.

To read CFW model success stories, click here.

To see Ajang modeling in Charleston magazine’s March 2012 fashion feature, click here.