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This 'agency' is a scam. They do nothing but brainwash and manipulate innocent people. They have a policy of not speaking to anyone who is under 18, and that is because 16 year olds don't have credit cards so they cannot purchase a photo session which is essentially useless for the agent.
The office is run by a deceptive woman who is so naive, irrational, and immature. As well she has no work ethic. She spends most of her time outside smoking when she should be keeping an eye on the office. The 'owner' of the company spends zero time in the office, he shows up for a day and a 1/2 and leaves his sidekick (the deceptive woman) in charge when he's not around.
No one knows this, but 99.9% of the business Max gets is not word of mouth, it's not people seeing ads in the newspaper, Max sends scouts to large events and they approach people and ask if they want to model or be an actor. So obviously everyone is excited by this. Later on max has workers who call these people who were approached and try to con them into coming in for an evaluation and meeting with an agent. This agent will tell you whether you're nice looking or not, that you can make it big and they will try to sell you on purchasing photos, which can cost anywhere from $500-$1, 200 and it's a complete waste of money. They will tell you you won't be able to get any acting job without a head shot.
This message is here to let you know about the 'business' that goes on at Max. They say they're certified by the better business bureau. That doesn't really mean much, anyone can obtain a plaque from the government.
They work stupid hours, the staff is not allowed to use the washroom, there is a reptile of some kind that swims in a tank in the foyer and he never gets fed.
Max guarantees they will provide work for anyone who signs. 90% of the clients never see a days work in this industry.
It is very important that you take a look at this before you sign with max, you will reret it in the long run.
Thank you for your time :)
The complaint has been investigated and resolved to the customer’s satisfaction.
There is one more thing, I will be speaking to someone who knows the gal from st catherines very well. Apparently she doesn't want to be name with these people. So she wants to give some info.
The run down I have includes some stuff that I will take out if I get the right info. Love it when people turn over my to side.
There seems to be some people that really don't want to be named with these [censor]ers, told you haven't had my coffee yet talk after my meeting with another potential roller and my last examine for this month. I know there there only a few that are hoping I pass on this board. LOL
Na lets see if icon models will bite, I will call later.
There are three of us here that have been talking on the phone so we know who we are right? We know who three of us are. I privated messaged two people and one got back to me by phone. So I know who that one is.
This one seems intent on Julianne bashing and no matter how many other people we talk about he keeps coming back to her, and is trying very hard to let us know that the Zaidi's are not great either. He brought Gloria mann into this then mention's Icon. Yep this is a Zaidi and I do believe the Zaidi that is trying so desperately to get all to believe his side.
Come on buddy, just be honest. We know Julieanne is not on the post and so do you. Your family memeber was right you all think you are very clever.
It's not working and if you are looking to tell Julianne how you feel you should call her or email her directly.
Your family guy and I will just give you a first letter "A" says you are all a little nuts. I think you all pretent to be nuts, because you think that people will run from you. Not this time buddy, we are here to stay.
So you can hang out with us and Julieanne bash and gloria mann bash but we are still presenting the facts to the media and if it's true you are going to be outta business.
I don't care if julianne, gloria, or pissed ageny or anyone else on this board likes it. I am want to be part of this ending.
juliann may be all that people are saying but I don't like that she is not doing more to help this. I think she should be posting here she could help more so if you can get her to post, excuse my mexican, get her on the [censor]ing board.
And if she works for 25 a pop then good for her, but I want her to speak for $0 money now and tell people everything she [censor]ing knows.
Sorry LM & MP, I haven't had my morning coffee.
Zagirl
Okay lets chaulk this one up to being drunk. this guy is a little wacked doesn't he know you should not drive drunk.
And I think we should just ignore an avoid this one. I really hope there are no casting directors posting or he is done or that poor icon company is done one or the other.
Are we talking about Icon Models on Spadina . Yes I am a Zaidi. You [censor]s, I have been bashing them along with Juliaan. And I know it Julian writing all this, because, from what I know, lol! She hardly has any loyalist around. Julian this, Julian that lol! Last time I checked, she hasn't sent a break down for any castings ;) . And for Zaidi's, as before, I don't give a [censor] about them. As for u dumb fuvks, you are easily ripped off... Walk into my office :))). I will show you how a course is sold along with a casting director associated with it. All these casting directors need extra income, and we Agents are there to provide them. As for Gloria Mann, hahahahaha, you guarantee her 109 students she's with you for $599 a pop . Julian was working for $$25 a pop. 0uch! If you don't believe me, let's challenge Julian and bring out her rates ;) . Hey Julian, I know which Ahency you visited last week hahahahaha... One of the Xaidis. ;) your such
A predictable person
I told you all that I would do right by the information I got and I did. I have just spoke to the Zaidi family member.
Can't say exactly what they said, but I will say one thing. Everything that is said in her post is spot on.
This family has serious issues they have even sued one another. This family member is not really close to the others. I don't know if he is really family but he sure knows a lot. He does say that Julianne loved teaching and was not paid what she was worth.
She was working with the other brother first until he started producing which he says julianne taught him a lot thinking they would open production co. He made money and he took off. by the sounds of it she lost money then this Kamran guy took over a couple of years ago, she has been saying she was leaving for awhile. She does the odd job in L.A. This guy says this Kamran guy is a pig, yes his words< He He He said it not me. Says he flipped out when she wouldn't do something and said get out. She left, get the impression they never did get along. He also said this guy has a temper and probably didn't mean to do it, and then tried to get her back, she wouldn't so he started the slandering.
He seems legit but you never know. I asked if I could post this and he said, no one will believe you anyway so go ahead. He is reading all of these posts. He also told me that it is probably the Zaidi's that are posting the negatives about julianne and he said one in paticular is the main one and that he has an agency on spadina. I will look it up and get back to you.
I am also a big believer in Ms. Kay.
She kicks [censor] in the class. These people are jealous for sure. She may be broke who cares, but she rocks.
Hope she is back soon. She taught me for years, even after I started working. She is the real deal. Aways will be.
If she worked for the bad guys, then she thought there was potential. Nothing wrong with that. She is a tough lady, and will give anyone a chance. But [censor] up and she will walk. I was in the military before I started acting. The first thing I said to her is some of my superiors could learn a few things from her.
She has had some really tough knocks in life, she keeps going, this time will be no different.
Anyone who talks badly about her, is either jealous, dosen't know her or is just plain stupid
She Rocks
They are the ones who should have been smart enough to keep her on their side.
Stupid stupid stupid.
Hi everyone, wow some real acting here tonight.
Funny how all of a sudden I contact this Renee chick and poof, we have visitors. This is her and her side kicks.
She was way to defensive in her response. We are the people who were scammed and she's pissed? or the people she is working with? Juliann teaches and teaches well, students love her and she has more people standing for her they are pissed at that. So Lawrence just laugh at them. Julianne is untouchable now. She is not saying these kinds of things about anyone, so who has more class? We know who these people are. Send me that email on the private reply and I will send those links in the morning.
Agent Pissed.
Coward is right. You are a Zaidi a friend of the Zaidi's, an employee of the Zaidi's. Or someone that only know's Juli-Ann through the one of the [censor] Zaidi's. Or you are someone who is jealous that she works more that you.
What's your problem, you don't like it when people are standing up for Juli-Ann. Did you think you had that much control.
As Zagirl said, you will just make us stronger. We are all on her side. You must be spitting mad.
Juli-Ann Kay is the BEST Juli-Ann Kay is the BEST Juli-Ann Kay is the BEST. You mad now. Come on say something that tells me who you are you coward.
Hey Pissed Agent,
Then stop googling and your language dictates who you are. You are giving your self away no one is even talking about Julianne and you keep bringing her up she is not in this cirlce anymore do you miss her LOL. And if she is broke then we know she wasn't ripping people off.
You are crude, talking about Gloria Mann Casting is on your list for insults to. What's wrong your talent not being seen.
Get off the site if you don't like it. We are going to get to the truth weather people like you like or not.
Idiot, people like you will never be listened to, you are just here to rip on Julianne and Gloria Mann etc. We know who you are, do you think people are stupid. Agent Idiot should be your new name.
Go Away. Are you writing here because you think Julianne and Glora Mann are here with us, coward, call them if your so brave. You are a joke.
Yeah okay ... I pledged the clan. Well whooopidy dooh! To make it clear, I am close to one of the zaidi's. And he's the dumb one in the family with a big mouth, and empty pockets. Believe it or not, there is a broke zaidi, who's half Seekh, Indian/Arabic. So, pledging is not the word, am glad am not part of the immoral clan. I am in the business, and this bloody forum is not helping, because it's showing up in the google searches! So stop continuing it! And I know there's a Xaidi out there reading this and a broke Julian! Stop it!
Sounds like someone pledged the clan and didnt make it in ... hahaha ...
Oh gawwwwwd! Just kill the topic! Gloria Mann, jigsaw you name it, they are with everyone! Hello! Just kill it! Zaidi clan, lol! You [censor] just go on and on and on ... Keep on reproducing. Julian, we know your broke! Ok! You are looking for other Agencies to teach. The word is out, and I might hire you ;) . And to rest of you! [censor]en shape up and stop crying! If you got scammed, you were dumb! Learn from it! Peace out Haters and stop [censor]ing the business with this [censor]ed up rivalry! I can't sell portfolios!'
love the pissed agent.
MAX Agent & Zaidi Family and or people who are really in bed with them.
Who do you all think your fooling?
There are other casting directors sleeping with them now.
Or are you that casting director?
The questions to be asked are clear & simple:
1. How many people have the same story that all leads to the same ending: being scouted, no submissions, no work, and deceptions found along the way?
2. When you call your agent, can they answer questions relating to what an agent does, what they should know, etc?
3. Were you persuaded to make choices one way or another?
4. Did your gut instinct tell you to walk away?
Its not about whos right or wrong, but the common denominators relating to shady business practice. Going after specific people takes the focus off the real issues at hand: if you feel you were wronged by an agency, leave out the personal emotions and go right by your principles.
The key is, an Actor/Model chooses their agency - the agency doesnt choose them - this is why so many public sites try to warn people about being scouted. Agencies with working talent dont have the time or need to scout around and draw people in. Alot of agencies dont even have websites or advertise. Think about it - they dont need to. People may think that the first time you meet with an agent is like a job youre interviewing for, but because agencies are sustained by the commission made off of your success, then youre the boss. Who do you want taking a cut of your bookings? Thats why research is so goddamned important. Youre always in control, but you need to know that. People are angry now because theyre realizing they were taken advantage of. The situation was flipped, where they felt they needed to listen and not speak.
This Industry is a scam, and all these Agents are scams including the [censor] Casting Directors. They all work for these fraudsters. You know why, because the money makes the world go round! Give it whatever shape you want, Zaidi Clan will carry on with there frauds, Julian who shows herself to be innocent, Is not innocent at all, she has gotten dirty, and wants to clean up the mess, but it's too late, she has slept with them. And please people! This forum is all controlled by both parties!
Everyone here is associated with eachother! I am part of this industry, I know both parties very well!Bloody stop polluting the business for everyone one ! Because it's effecting the legitimate businesses aswell [censor] holes!
I agree or an agent from one of the many Zaidi Agencies,
Moro, Century, Orange, Just Canadian Talent, Film Com and the list goes on.
I heard from Mari Plant, she got a response from Ms Kay.
Through all of this, when she shares her resonse, then you all will see that no matter what, this Lady is fair.
Linda Ashton, the above poster says it all. But again Kamran Zaidi spread these things about her and the very few people who just want their 15 min of fame are still held in regard by her. She is and always will be what she says she is.
I will not stop fighting for her and what she stands for.
I am waiting for the Zaidi family to start something with her. I have so much to give to the situation.
Juli-Ann used to say in her class, Let's Dance and now I am stealing that phrase.
Let's Dance Zaidi Family, you have ripped off so many people now those people want to talk to you. Now these people are educated in what you are doing.
But you don't want to talk to educated people do you?
its obvious francis is an agent from MAX AGENCY
Hey where did you go francis, I thought you had such insight on what was happening, you said you did research as well, curious to know what you know.
Did you speak directly to the people at Universal Academy of Acting? or MAX Agency? it's the same owners. Did they tell you that she got fired? That's what you said in your post.
Let me know if you know.
Zagirl
I have posted the argument above that Lawrence and I had on another website.
Looking for the opinion of others?
All I can say is "NO" are you asking me to get involved now?
Have you not read anything that I wrote. I would never get involved in something that I truly believe is all over.
GET A GRIP Zagirl are you after Julianne or one of the Zaidi's and not telling anyone? What is your real goal here.
You say you know someone who worked at MAX can you send me her name? or even better can you tell her to post here?
GIVES UP ON WHAT? IT'S NOT YOUR FIGHT.
I am not telling you what to do as I said just the voice of reason.
We are probably the only people reading these posts, so I am now doing what I told you not to do.
I am signing off for now and hope you find what your looking for.
If you find it post it here I will check in from time to time.
LM
I don't think so after reading the fracis post.
Obviously there is still something going on.
Anyway thanks for your advice LM. But I am not a person who gives up.
Zagirl
ZAGIRL, No you are playing with people AND their personal lives.
If people want to post police reports then let them, they look like the angry ones.
My wallet was taken from a co-worker and I didn't send a memo out when I filed a police report, It was done quietly.
Let them fight this out quietly, if it is a fight. They may have all worked this out and you are still posting. This might all be finished as far as they are concerned.
LM
I am not taunting people. I am forcing the truth.
What's wrong with that?
Zagirl
Well you do what you want. But asking her to come out of the closet is not the right wording for her to want to tell you anything.
She might not care at this point Zagirl, have you thought of that. Because she doesn't want to speak dosen't mean she is being threatened. I really hope that is not the case.
She is an older woman and she might be living her life. You are try to keep a scabbed soar open and she may have already healed it.
There will always be the MAX Agencies and The Zaide's Family people working. People will always work for them until thy find out for themselves.
Now that I find out it wasn't her school, BIG DEAL she's not there anymore. Why try and find out more of the same stuff?
It's over. This is not the enquirer and no one is going to get famous over this. The Zaide FAmily or just making it worse for themselves by all this bad press. Let them hang themselves. I got the email they sent out about Juli-Ann Kay, I laughed, what a thing to do. They are not very smart or classy.
I think she is being classy by not reponding and as for her cutting her facebook account off. BIG DEAL I would to. She was probably getting lots of messages asking questions. If you want to go on, then you have to stop it somewhere.
If they led me to believe she owned the school, then they did it with others, she knows her rights, or she should.
Zagirl, how do you know she is even reading all of these posts. That is an assumption on your part. She might not even care.
Call her, if you want information. Then say she is hiding.
I don't know her personally but she was very good at what she does. It's obvious that when you post positive about her these people get very upset. Now you keep asking Why? figure it out. They are mad for obvious reasons she is not responding so that makes people mad.
I would post negative about her if I had proof, but you can't do it just because they say she did them wrong. They are the ones with the history not her.
There has not been anything I have seen except on their part that says she is anything but what she showed in that class I took.
But I still wouldn't say I know everything. I wasn't there when they parted.
I am saying Zagirl, that you are creating the witch hunt by posting and taunting people.
LM
It's in my nature to get to the truth. And if the can make it public then it's up for grabs.
I know the francis poster is part of it, I just wanted to see if he would post another post with another accusation. I want to see what their side of the story is.
NO I have not been wronged. But they tried when they scouted my firends and I and one of my friends lost big time.
So I have a right to bring this to others. I undersatnd what you are saying. LM, but you also have the obligation to let people know how you lost money with these people.
In my research I do know Juli-Ann Kay worked for this family. And I would like to know why she did and if she knew they were crooked. I also know just because she worked at the School you can't say she was doing anything wrong. But why didn't and why isn't she telling all that she knows. She also has an obligation. I know she is well regarded and when I posted that this francis poster when crazy, I would like to know why that is. Why are they so intent on getting her, so yes it is a witch hunt. But Why, there has to be more of a reason then that she taught a few people and accepted money for it. There has got to be a deeper reason for MAX Agency, The Zaidi Family and the Universal Academy of Acting who are all the same people want to get her. She is not saying much and I would like to know why. Some of the people that I have spoken to say she is saying nothing. Why? like you said it's her reputation. Why isn't she trying to defend it more?
From what I have read and heard she has nothing to hide. So why dosen't she just bring it out in the open.
She is not the one with the fraud convictions, Kamran Zaidi has filed a report, we know that because he had it published on MAX Agency site, Universal Academy of Acting Site and Facebook. I am a law student I know anyone can file a report and that this just means "a report has been filed" so thank you for letting me know but I am well versed in the law.
When you read things like "Kamran Zaidi" has been involved with fraud in the Agency world, and is still practising business. I want to know why and I want to know why anyone would work with him. And why is Juli-Ann Kay not speaking up. She must know more and if she didn't she knows by now. So why the silence. I spoke to one of her students and they told me she has cut her facebook account off. Why is she doing that? Is it because she is being threatened? I am letting her know with my posts that she should make this public like they are doing.
I might be able to help her, who knows.
Thanks for having the insight but I won't get myslef into trouble. But I will get the truth.
Zagirl
I have read all the reports on all of these websites, I was with MAX Agency and wasn't happy about how I lost money and I did go to the School. The classes that I took were good but I didn't get any work from the MAX Agency so I left. I read about the owner and have recently heard that Julianne kay dosen't teach there now because of something between her and the MAX Agency and the owner of the School. BIG DEAL what is all this about If all of you know things that are illegal then tell the police and stop them. This seems like it is turning into a witch hunt. I was led to believe it was her school by the MAX Agency people so how was she stealing. If you don't like what all these Agencies are doing then tell the authorities. Don't fight this out on the internet with phoney names signed at the bottom of your posts.
I have read the posts from her and she signs her name to it, her posts sounds emotional, not sure if that's what she meant to do, but she did sign her name to it.
Why are all you others afraid to say who you are? If you know things this is not the place to air it.
I got to know one of the girls that worked at MAX Agency and she didn't like what was going on, so she left. She has told me a lot of things that went on there, she had a huge fight with this guy Kamran before leaving. She knows a lot because she answered the phones there. But she is glad she dosen't work there and has gone on to other things. If you have been ripped off by them or anyother Agency and are not happy with it then report it to someone who can do something about it. Go to the Better Business people and stop them.
This last post to the Zagirl posting sounds like a 3 year old. This is just imature. Calling someone a stealer is worth nothing on this site, go to the police if she did it. And if this is already being investigated then so be it. Julianne also has the right speak, which she did. I don't know what happened, anyone can file a report and air it on the internet. That is probably the most imature about all of this. So she dosen't work at the school because of some problem and the owner starts putting the investigation details on sites like this?
What is this poster going on about. And the Zagirl, why would you want to put this on facebook for your law studies. This is someones reputation you are talking about.
Who cares what happened with these people, don't you people have a life?
If you do post something, then post your name along with it. Zagirl did say her name but I don't understand why you would want to get into this, unless you have been wronged by the parties involved. If you have been, then say this in your post. Don't beat around the bush. Obviously the Zaidi family and MAX Agency has many X's against them, we all know that. All you have to do is look it up. And if people arn't smart enough to do this before getting involved with them then that is their problem. I took my lumps and lost money and now I have learned. But I will not lose anymore money by fighting these people in court they are not worth it. That is how I feel. But if I wanted to fight it I would be taking into a court room not to a website.
I don't know who is wrong or write but I don't agree with blaming people of being the ones who post things when it might not be them at all. The francis guy is obviously some angry member of this thing and wants to lash out at Julieanne. Just reading the post is enough to see that. He is part of this you can tell by the words he uses. Any idiot can see that. But why, why would any of you want to destroy yourselves like this. Zagirl, don't post anything on facebook, you are going to get yourself in trouble. You can't hold court on a public website. Unless of course you have permission from all parties.
I am just trying to be the voice of reason here. Get a grib everyone. This is just a conflict between some people. Stay out of it unless you are involved. There are always two sides to a story. And in the end there is probably a good answer for both. If Julianne, MAX Agency, The Zaidi Family or anyothers who are involved are not posting things then who are you people and what are you doing.
If any of these posters are the people involved then sign your name to it tell the truth and be done with it.
I do believe that Julieann would post her name because she has done so in other posts. She made no mistake in what she was saying, true or not. Zagirl I don't know what to say to you but signing your name to something like this maybe the most childish thing I have seen except the francis person, what a jerk. With "HAHAHA" stuff, what is that. and Calling people stealers and then saying the poster is someone else. That is just kids stuff. no one takes that seriously as a matter of fact people will laugh at it and just think it is one of the Zaidi Family or someone from MAX Agency or Acting School. Say what you know and who you really are or shut up.
All other posts are hearsay unless you really know something say it
say how you have come to know the infomation
and
who you are.
LM
Why can't people take a moment and check for spelling and grammar errors?
Yes, I knew the blogs would eventually bring out someone who is part of this.
People can't help themselves. We are powerless to it.
My name is Zara Benzie and I am a 3rd yr law student at U of T. I am not Juliann.
Okay, is this one of the Zaidi family? I know it can't be Juliann or she would not be name calling herself. That dosen't take a law student :-)
Are you involved, you seem to know the key players. Even if you are not part of this, post what you know.
One of the first things you learn in ivestigative law is to take one side and go hard. What that does is makes the otherside speak up. Works everytime. So now you can say your piece.
Its how it works, then we can get more information.
So now that we have someone who knows these people in the open, tell us your side.
Don't stop now, I have no loyalty to the subjects I investigate. I just want the truth or information so I can find the truth.
Then I get both sides and research each individual and make arguements for both sides of the of the story.
I will then prepare the arguements for a moch jury.
Most of what I posted is what people have written or said, your right, it's all been on the Julianne side so give us the otherside. Actra and Casting Directors/Agents as well as people that she taught, are all people I have contacted one way or another and are all part of her camp, so, yes it would only be fitting that they would stick up for her.
If you post this, I may get her out of the closet with more up to date information.
I will post what we have so far on facebook and they can be the jury.
Give your information and I will set it up. Are you in?
Zagirl
Wow! I have a 4 year old daughter named Zara...and I thought I was being original! Beautiful name, all the same. I had sent photo's of Zara to Max Agency and was called within a few hours. They claim on their website that no one should solicit funds to join an agency. Max Agency sounded promising, but I am no dummy and ALWAYS do my homework beforehand. Like you, I like to Investigate but I wasn't expecting this! Of course negative reviews and disgruntled people posts are part and parcel of any company, legit or not, however, if I were to ignore All of this, than I would be a dummy! So, my daughter, Zara ( it's actually Azara but we have always called her Zara) and I will be taking her precious face elsewhere! Thanks for your input, however long ago now. Perhaps putting your legal knowledge to good use and helping others. Take care. Susan M B
Ha ha ha ha ha ha, what a bunch of crap!.
Juli Ann Kay is the ONLY one who is ultra professional in this circle? Juli Ann Kay was fired because she was stealing from the academy of acting. Here is their letter to people with documented proof:
http://universalacademyofacting.com/uaa-letter.htm
She is being investigated by the police for various charges and the only way she can get back to her ex employer is by being vindictive and posting to random websites.
Then she pretends to be a law student and brings up the same postings as proof of wrong doing from these companies. She also posts as herself just to prove that she is not a random poster like this posting where she denies it over and over (gulity conscience?):
/URL removed/
To All involved,
I do not condone hate mail. The ONLY reason I am posting this is because it was brought to my attention on November 26th 2010.
Any postings in regards to Police and the Actra union were not posted by Juli-Ann Kay, CSA CDC. This can be proven, beyond a doubt.
I do not condone hate mail only the truth. I hope that this last posting was a person that did not have hate toward any one person involved, but worded this posting wrong. That is my hope although do not know who did it therefore it is only my hopeful opinion.
I can say as an industry person for almost 40 years Actra and the Police have nothing to do with one another. As well they do not act for each others representative. I hope this clears up what I know to be true. The Internet is a very unsafe place to air differences and should be used as a research tool to start your findings.
I do not condone hate mail. The ONLY reason I am posting this is because it was brought to my attention on November 26th 2010.
I was asked if I posted this. I DID NOT. (just like this post I have no problem writing or posting my name to anything I say write or post.)
I have only made postings stating that I am not and do not have any dealings or associations with MAX Agency / Universal Academy of Acting / LCA reality and that is my right as a professional and as a Person. The Name Juli-Ann Kay is a Business name, it is my name and I will defend it as I see fit. At the very beginning of all of this craziness... I reacted to untruths, we do this as humans but it was the truth, However now I have no intention accept to protect me, my name and the people who have been hurt in the process.
It is also my obligation to let people know this only because my name, up to this date November 27th 2010, 12:14pm is still being used in one way or another on websites and on press releases, concerning the above companies, websites www.youtube.com channels etc. I do not endorse this or approve of it.
People are free do do their own research on individuals and companies, etc. I believe that is our free right and the purpose of living in Canada.
I have moved on with my professional life and personal life.
Again, I have never condoned hate mail and never will. I don't need to act with such disdain. I am a believer in my industry and will continue in the industry that I have been working in since I was 14 years old. And if there are individuals that try to tarnish my reputation, I have a right to defend myself, as any other individuals do.
If this particular Det's name was mentioned to someone, than that is where miscommunication started. That's how I see it, I am only stating what I believe to be the case.
I am simply trying to own my own name and my personal/professional integrity.
P.S. The police that were mentioned in the previous post are not to be contacted in regards to any of the matters concerning professional or person regarding myself. Actra is to be contacted when you feel you have been mistreated or mislead in the Film and Television Industry. Both these organizations are busy.
If there is a further investigation and I am told to post something of this nature, it will be posted properly and with the written approval of such.
Again I do not condone hate mail or any other mail or postings.
If you do things the right way ... it will turn out the way it was meant to be.
Have trust.
Respectfully,
Juli-Ann Kay
In this letter she admits she was STEALING and tries to justify it by saying "the owner asked her to do it?":
/URL removed/
AFTER over 30 years in the business, I am finding myself involved in a situation that is in someway beyond my control. I am being accused of stealing (not true) fraud (not true) harrassment (not true) and many other things.
I write this post to warn all of the new actors to please do your research before giving one penny. Unfortunately it is not against the law for Agencies to take money for Photo's, and website stuff...and tell you to sign a non exclusive contract. it's a bit unethical to own the photography place or have a deal with them.. but not against the law...And it is not against the law to own an agency and an Acting Academy, although it is a conflict in the industry only because the agency is in control of who teaches there and how much money they charge for the courses. Simply because this means all monies go to the same person. In my case I was paid 700 dollars a week, and he was making 595 + taxes per person. You do the math.
I myself worked at this Academy for ACTORS and knew that this person owned the Agency (did not do my research at first on the agency) very silly on my part.
I am a Casting Director, so also knew what I was teaching and tried very hard to get some of the talent work, and did so many times.
I worked very hard at training them... I did my job. I was always under the impression that the owner was selling this Agency and was going to consentrate on the Academy and other things. I was wrong to wait as long as I did, and If I wasn't fired... who knows I would have probably waited longer as the students became a mission and a passion (meaning training them right). When certain people came and let me know that they couldn't afford the classes along with what they had just paid at their Agency or they were an old student of mine (before I even knew him) who had already taken classes with me... depending on the situation I was told to deal with these people from me to them, and I did. So I told them to paid what they could afford which was very low or free. The owner Knew this all along and now is denying it... silly me. I was asked that I did not let the other students know because everyone would be asking for the same deal. I gave rec'ts TAX included/non quote/cash as this was not my rate, and it wasn't to a lot of people...I wont lie... if I could have given everyone that same deal I would have... as it was becoming evident that people were being told it was my school therefore not aware that it was the owner of the Agencies school. Here is my warning to all of you. Don't take anyone's word for things and don't sign contracts unless they sign a contract on what they will do for your money... I am a resident of this business not a visitor...and now find myself being accused of things that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. I have helped more people in this industry including this man... and am now being called down to the lowest by him.
I will not let this stop me. It makes me sad that people can take my name and use it to their advantage ... and I have to fight for something I have worked hard for, for over 30 years.
This Man has more money than most of us will see in a life time, but will still fight for more... I don't live in his world, so I am not good at it.
But I will have to become good or my name will be slammed and slandered. All because I was not careful and didn't get him to sign something... I slipped up and started to feel he care for a bit. and now I am being accused of stealing and fraud, and what ever else he can throw my way. His past is his past... and is now blending into my life by just being associated with him... believe me this is not an easy time for me... but I will get through it. I am not perfect... but I don't hurt people and have never ripped anyone off... I love my industry way to much to do that... having people pay what they can or having them in my class for free is not a rip off... I guess it was his way of showing me how stupid I was for thinking that he cared... he is now saying he knew nothing... I am still trying to figure this one out. I am also trying to figure out how and what I was thinking when I truly thought he was on the same page as me when it came to working in this industry. I will probably retire in a few years so it was important to me when it came to making a difference or change with new blood in the industry. Even if I wanted to believe there was a bit of truth to him.. he is proving me wrong every day that he continues this behaviour.
IMAGINE THIS MAN WHO NEVER EVEN KNEW WHAT ACTING WAS BEFORE TAKING OVER THIS ACADEMY IS TRYING TO STOP ME FROM TEACHING BECAUSE HE THINKS HE CAN... HE HAS BEEN DOING THINGS LIKE THIS FOR SO LONG THAT HE NOW BELIEVES HE IS ABOVE THE LAW.. AND TO SOME DEGREE MAYBE THE LAW LETS HIM BELIEVE THIS. HOWEVER I STILL BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE THAT WILL NOT TAKE THIS ANYMORE... WE CAN ONLY HOPE AND PRAY.
MY POINT IS PLEASE DON'T "JUST" TRUST PEOPLE. CHECK THINGS OUT. I AM SAD TO SAY THAT I THOUGHT PEOPLE WERE THEIR POSSIBILITIES NOT THEIR PAST. I AM BEING SLAPPED IN THE FACE FOR THAT WAY OF THINKING AND IT STINGS BUT I AM LEARNING. NOT TO SAY I WASN'T TOLD BECAUSE I WAS, ACTUALLY BY SOMEONE HE IS RELATED TO. I REALLY THOUGHT THINGS WERE GENUINE. PLEASE BECAREFUL AND IF YOU THINK OR EVEN HAVE THE SLIGHTEST FEELING THAT THINGS ARE NOT RIGHT... THEN IT'S NOT RIGHT.
When I begin again which will be very soon, I will make sure things are done properly and with people who care about the same things I do. I am now 52 years old and feel like I am starting all over again. But I take responsiblity for this and believe I am not the victum, but that the people that got caught up in this situation are the real victums. I will do my best to make that up to them and myself.
OH AND BY THE WAY .. I DID NOT POST ANYTHING THAT SAYS CONTACT POLICE OR ACTRA... ANYTHING I POST... I HAVE NO PROBLEM PUTTING MY NAME TO IT... ACTRA AND THE POLICE ARE NOT REPRESENTATIVE OF ONE ANOTHER AND I BELIEVE THIS WAS WORDED WRONG... AND THEREFORE WAS MIS UNDERSTOOD. THAT IS ONLY MY ASSUMPTION. BUT "NO" I DID NOT POST THAT... ON THIS [redacted].
Cheers,
JAK
Juli-Ann Kay,
Casting Director / Acting & Performance Coach
If nothing else the person posting above certainly seems obsessed with this family business and wants to defame and SLANDER everyone even randomly associated with them and I wonder why?
You can figure it out if you are smart :)
PS: To the law student:
I spent a week searching the Zaidi family on the internet after the initial posting and found what I posted above. I could NOT find a connection between Film Comm and Max and lots of other stuff you mentioned. If there really IS a connection, maybe you know about it because YOU ARE JULIANN KAY who worked with the same family for years before you decided you will start stealing?
HA HA HA HA
OMG These people just keep it in the family.
Why are people so silly, don't they look people up before handing their money over to them.
So Now We Have the Zaidi and the Rock family
Are they all filtering people through the Universal Academy of Acting! They are making a killing or killing the people who are making it.
What a sham.. this Universal Academy of Acting.
When you go to their facebook they start out by telling you the have a criminal investigation against employees.
Okay I want to pay for classes there, isn't this the same guy who committed fraud agains people in the modeling world.
MAX Agency and Kamaran Zaidi and now Universal Academy of Acting okay lets all go and take classes from him. LOL
Oh gee...look at this posting that I just found proving our case even stronger that Film Comm Agency and Max Agency (who have the same owners/association) operate the exact same way ripping people off. They make their money off of getting people into the agency and selling photoshoots not getting people actual work in Toronto as they promise you. They say they focus on primary roles...is that why they sent a friend of mine to an audition in Toronto for a role that paid $150. for a 10 hour day and I was told after by my friend that after inquiring at the audition that it was considered an extra job...is that how they try to appear legit so they don't get closed down? I wonder if Film Comm Agency and Max Agency could survive alone on all commissions that they make off of all these low paying jobs that they send their people to. Real reputable agencies, suggest photographers, give you a list with photographers that they suggest to you and you pay the photographer directly...never the agency and that's what I found out by the agency that my daughter is with now. I hope you find this info. helpful.
Talent Scouts Needed
Share | Print | Report Ad
Date Listed 05-Jan-11
Address St Catharines, ON, Canada
View map
Scouts needed (ranging from 19 to 30 years of age)
For those that enjoy meeting new people and generating creative marketing concepts, this is your chance to participate in special events and help grow Film/Comm Talent, which is Niagara Region's most successful television and film agency. We are solely focused on primary roles for TV Commercials, feature films, TV series, and music videos.
As a Film/Comm Talent Scout, you will assist in hosting tradeshows, night clubs, festivals and attending special events occurring in the Niagara, Hamilton, Burlington and Oakville region. During these events the main focus is to scout for unique personalities and educate the community on the services that Film/Comm Talent has to offer.
This is a personality-driven position that requires excellent public speaking abilities, sophisticated business instincts, good organizational skills, entrepreneurial drive and unmatched work ethic.
During the events, the Scouts will meet with Marketing Director from Film/Comm Talent to monitor the effectiveness of their promotion and discuss strategies for future promotions.
Please note that in this position you must have a keen eye for the fashion industry.
$10 to $15 an hour, plus commission (details to be discussed).
http://www.filmcomm.ca
Email the following contents to the below address:
Cover Letter - Explain why you are interested in the position. Include the date available for work
Resume
Head Shot - Please note that the headshot does not have to be professional
filmcomm206@yahoo.ca
Office Contact Number: [protected] please ask to speak with Dana
We wish to thank all applicants in advance for their interest; however, only those who will be considered for an interview will be contacted.
I found this link...also direct them to all of this info in this blog, so all agencies/school/people involved are reported. Yes I know it's the same thing, you have to fill out a piece of paper, then they call you for an interview, you go in and have a quick meeting, they tell you that they will call you in a few days with their decision to accept you...they do, they tell you that they have to receive payment for photoshoot within a few days or you loose your spot in the agency. You can't pay the phtographer directly, when you start to ask questions they get this attitude. Everyone that i spoke to that was with Film Comm Agency had the same story. I guess we are the stupid ones. Live and learn. In any case I found this link and it maybe a good first step. http://amisontario.com/scam.php
Called the Det. He dosen't work there anymore.
Does anyone know who I can get a hold of in regards to information I have.
Zagirl
MAX and Universal Academy of Acting along with Kamran Zaidi / Michael DeMarco have always sent out staff to get people to fill out lead sheets. They still do it now. If you go into the class room of his school everyone was scouted and the teacher Jennifer Gibson is claiming she is a casting director She is not a Casting Director and knows exactly where all these people come from, and she started working there after knowing a reputable casting director was fired. Didn't she want to know why?
She does work for Modeling Agency which is now scouting for the Zaidi school too, you can easily look her up. I also called Actra, she is not a Casting Director and the Agency she is listed with will not talk. What does that tell you?
I followed up also with a call to Universal Academy of Acting then MAX, they are so rude and offer demaging information on Juli-Ann Kay and this Martha Molnar without you even asking. I will not repeat comments, as the statements are obviously untrue.
Juli-Ann Kay is a mentor not just a teacher or a Casting Director. She and a Martha Molnar are being attacked by the Kamran Zaidi lawyers. I am not at liberty to say how I know this.
Juli-Ann Kay has done nothing wrong except, yes she was in the wrong place at the wrong time. She is not part any wrong doing. Check into her background, nothing but above board activity. Several background checks are enough for everyone who wanted to know and now we know the truth.
From what I understand Kamran Zaidi and other family members are in this together. He has one brother who is now a millionaire due to the same type of business. There are several nephew's in the Talent Agency business.
We can stop these people, and help those who have been wronged. I am personally going to do my part.
This is a huge operation that the police should be investigating, but if what I read is correct, Kamran Zaidi is being protected? No this is wrong and we need to stop this now.
Zagirl
I would like to add some very interesting information regarding Max Agency, it's sister agency in Niagara, Film Comm Agency and Juli-Ann Kay. Firstly Juli-Ann Kay whom my daughter studied a workshop with was nothing but ultra professional, informative and just an all around excellent person. And seems to have found herself in the wrong place, at the wrong time, with the wrong people. Max Agency on the other hand whose sole officer and director Mrs. Melissa Rock the wife of Kamaran (Mohammed) Zaidi, has also been the owner of another scam operation in the Niagara region for the past 5 years, where my daughter had also been "scouted" at a local Rib Fest. She was called in for an evaulation and also told that I would need to spend almost $500. for photographs that she would need, to be represented by the agency. We were told that all the monies collected were to pay for the photoshoot. Later on we found out the majority of the money went to Film Comm the agent, which after some digging I found out was against the model agents code of ethics in the industry. But my daughter was told she had a chance to do some work in Toronto so I never bothered to say anything to not rock the boat and ruin her chances. I know for a fact from my daughter's friends and local word of mouth Film Comm "scouts" hundreds of people a year and at the price that we all paid for these photoshoots that's alot of money being scammed from hard working, niave people such as ourselves. After 2 years of no auditions, disgusting attitudes from Mrs. Melissa Rock and staff, needless to say my daughter is no longer with Film Comm Agency but a reputable "real" agency in Toronto that never charged me one penny to take my daughter on and contacts her at least once a week wether she has an audition or not, unlike Film Comm Agency where we never heard from them for 8 months and when we did it involved paying more money for something. Below for verification I have attached an artilce for your viewing pleasure so we can all wisen up to the likes of Max Agency, Film Comm Agency and John Robert Powers and stop making these scammers rich and see our children suffer mentally from their lies. See below:
Life is good when you're Mohammed Kamran Zaidi, 32-year-old uncrowned King of the Modelling World. Lavish homes, plush offices and exotic sports cars come with the job of paid "consultant" for Max Model Management Inc. and Talent 2NV Inc. Modelling seems to be in the blood of the Zaidi family, as brother Husain operated Zaidi Model & Talent Agency Inc., until he suddenly retired from the business at the tender age of 33 several months ago.
Nothing seems to put a serious dent in the lifestyle of Kamran Zaidi. Not a fraud conviction of more than 10 years ago in Montreal, not an arrest for the Arthur Ashley Management fraud in 2000 or even a CTV W5 exposé showing the homes, offices and sports cars of the modelling king and his brother just after being charged with fraud.
There were those who thought relief from modelling scams would come with the year 2000 prosecution of prominent Holub and Anu Agency operator Peter Holub, currently serving three years in federal penitentiary.
It didn't.
Fraudulent modelling and talent agencies are raking in millions of dollars per year by making false promises to the parents of babies, teenagers, new immigrants and especially seniors that they attract with their misleading classified advertisements in community newspapers and their sophisticated telemarketing operations. If you're a wannabe model or actor, whose dreams of a better future were left in tears and ashes, you're not alone. Hundreds of people are recruited by scouts that agencies employ on a commission basis to go to schoolyards, shopping malls and street corners to solicit what their bosses back at the big offices call, "suckers' lists".
This type of solicitation is unheard of in the legitimate modelling and talent industry, and precautions have been voiced by organizations such as Actors and Models Information Service (AMI), the Ministry of Consumer and Corporate Relations and numerous other consumer awareness outlets geared to prevent more victims from being first lured, then scammed by unscrupulous agencies.
Ministry of Consumer and Corporate Relations documents obtained by Toronto Free Press show that Max Model Management Inc. was originally owned by Kamran Zaidi and underwent a myriad of corporate name changes since its original date of incorporation in 2000.
TFP reporter Edward Zawadski tagged Zaidi at his Yonge and Eglinton offices, spotting him on his usual noon-hour arrival.
After several rescheduled arrangements on his part, Zaidi finally showed up for an interview at a Bay Street restaurant. TFP wanted to know whether Zaidi had been operating Max Model Management Inc. and other agencies while out on bail for the Arthur Ashley Management fraud scam. Zaidi made a point of stating for the record that his sentencing conditions for the Arthur Ashley Management fraud charges did not in any way prevent him from being in the modelling business.
"I'm allowed to be in the modelling business and I'll fax you my conditions to prove it, " he said.
A copy of his bail conditions, obtained by TFP, clearly indicates that Zaidi was "not to be involved in the modelling, movies or telemarketing industries".
Although he's been in the modelling industry in one form or another since 1988, during the interview Zaidi denied ownership of any agency. When told about the TFP tag at Max Model Management Inc., Zaidi said, "I work for the company as a consultant."
Since we had spoken only to Zaidi and to no other principle of the company, we were surprised to receive a letter the following morning from the solicitors for Max Model Management limited (the "Company").
"We have been asked by management of the Company to clarify for you certain information with respect to the Company, " wrote solicitor Avi Greenspoon of the firm Fogler Rubinoff LLP.
"As disclosed in the enclosed Corporation Profile in respect of the Company dated as of today's date (June 6, 2002) and produced by the Ministry of Consumers and Commercial Relations-Companies Branch, the Company was incorporated on July 10, 2000 as 1428861 Ontario Limited. On September 14, 2000, the Company's name was changed to its current name, Max Model Management Limited. The sole director and officer of the Company is Melissa Rock.
"We understand that it is your contention that a company formerly known as Max Model Management Inc. is the same company as the Company or is otherwise affiliated with the Company. Our client denies this. Our searches have revealed that an existing company called Madad Media Limited formerly carried on business under the name Max Model Management Inc. until September 14, 2000, at which time its name was changed to its current name. Madad Media Limited and the Company are different companies."
Greenspoon failed to mention that Madad Media Limited was actually owned and operated by Kamran Zaidi.
Diligent as local police are in trying to protect the public from fraud, it seems there will always be fast-talking, take-the-money-and-run types operating in the modelling industry.
When the law caught up with Zaidi and company in December of 2001, it was almost two years after original charges had been laid and there were more than 1, 400 members of the public out of pocket, courtesy of fraudulent means.
Over $1.8 million could be traced through the known bank accounts of the accused parties and Kamran Zaidi was indicated as receiving over $1.4 million of the company's earnings, accounting for 77 per cent of earnings of the fraud.
No money has ever been recovered.
Although some thought Zaidi would be clobbered after Arthur Ashley Management was busted, he went to police to give a "full voluntary KGB video taped statement."
"In other words, to put it colloquially, Mr. Zaidi not only confirmed his high position in this scheme, but he sold out each and every one of his co-accused in accordance with the roles in the frauds that the police believed they played, " said Crown Attorney D. Butt at Zaidi's December 2001 trial.
The crown in view of the "boxes and boxes of bank records, hundreds and hundreds of victim's statements and victim's testimony" and their subsequent cost to the public purse, brokered a deal with Zaidi.
Zaidi was given a conditional sentence of two years less a day, a probationary period of three years and was ordered to pay restitution of $40, 000.
Zaidi, who seemed to have been involved with Max Model Management Inc. while on bail, walked, but his 11 co-accused are still before the courts.
Finding it difficult to believe that Zaidi is "untouchable" due to his "co-operation with the Crown", TFP checked with arresting officer Detective Bjorn Walters of 52 Division's Fraud Squad.
Walters registered surprise that Zaidi was involved in a modelling agency, let alone one with alleged complaints from members of the public at large.
Although Walters said he could not talk specifics of the Arthur Ashley Management case because it is still before the courts, he was willing to talk about unscrupulous modelling agencies in general.
Unscrupulous modelling agencies, he said, "are a great way of fleecing the public of their hard-earned money."
The detective made it clear that the squad would "follow up on any complaints reported to us", saying "that's our job."
There can be little doubt that any deal brokered between Zaidi and the crown would form an immunity blanket for any of his new modelling ventures.
If you feel you have been a victim of fraud by any of the companies mentioned in this article, contact Detective Bjorn Walters of 52 Division Fraud Squad at [protected].
Telltale signs of a scam modelling and talent agency:
According to government and industry sources, all legitimate agency operators follow this code of ethics:
• No classified advertising in newspapers;
• No trade show booths to entice people to fill out lead sheets (suckers' lists);
• No telemarketing operations
• No in-house photographers
• No courses and excessive fees for attendance to overseas "talent shows";
• No Internet advertising fees;
• No registration fees;
• No pushy sales techniques to sell overpriced portfolios, Comp-cards and courses;
• No agency should ever collect fees for photos or other services other than its 15-20 per cent fee based on the assignments that they find for their clients.
Canada Free Press founding editor Judi McLeod is an award-winning journalist with 30 years experience in the print media. Her work has appeared on Newsmax.com, Drudge Report, Foxnews.com, Glenn Beck and The Rant. Judi can be reached at: judi@canadafreepress.com
http://www.weblocal.ca/reviews-max-agency-toronto-on.html
this site has other reviews on the agency, some good, some bad.
zag girl, I found this on [redacted] about max agency
JULI-ANN KAY IS WARNING ALL NEW ACTORS AND INDUSTRY PEOPLE TO DO YOUR RESEARCH, PLEASE!
Juli-Ann Kay - (, United States of America)
SUBMITTED: Sunday, November 28, 2010
POSTED: Sunday, November 28, 2010
AFTER over 30 years in the business, I am finding myself involved in a situation that is in someway beyond my control. I am being accused of stealing (not true) fraud (not true) harrassment (not true) and many other things.
I write this post to warn all of the new actors to please do your research before giving one penny. Unfortunately it is not against the law for Agencies to take money for Photo's, and website stuff...and tell you to sign a non exclusive contract. it's a bit unethical to own the photography place or have a deal with them.. but not against the law...And it is not against the law to own an agency and an Acting Academy, although it is a conflict in the industry only because the agency is in control of who teaches there and how much money they charge for the courses. Simply because this means all monies go to the same person. In my case I was paid 700 dollars a week, and he was making 595 + taxes per person. You do the math.
I myself worked at this Academy for ACTORS and knew that this person owned the Agency (did not do my research at first on the agency) very silly on my part.
I am a Casting Director, so also knew what I was teaching and tried very hard to get some of the talent work, and did so many times.
I worked very hard at training them... I did my job. I was always under the impression that the owner was selling this Agency and was going to consentrate on the Academy
and other things. I was wrong to wait as long as I did, and If I wasn't fired... who knows I would have probably waited longer as the students became a mission and a passion (meaning training them right). When certain people came and let me know that they couldn't afford the classes along with what they had just paid at their Agency or they were an old student of mine (before I even knew him) who had already taken classes with me... depending on the situation I was told to deal with these people from me to them, and I did. So I told them to paid what they could afford which was very low or free. The owner Knew this all along and now is denying it... silly me. I was asked that I did not let the other students know because everyone would be asking for the same deal. I gave rec'ts TAX included/non quote/cash as this was not my rate, and it wasn't to a lot of people...I wont lie... if I could have given everyone that same deal I would have... as it was becoming evident that people were being told it was my school therefore not aware that it was the owner of the Agencies school. Here is my warning to all of you. Don't take anyone's word for things and don't sign contracts unless they sign a contract on what they will do for your money
... I am a resident of this business not a visitor...and now find myself being accused of things that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. I have helped more people in this industry including this man... and am now being called down to the lowest by him.
I will not let this stop me. It makes me sad that people can take my name and use it to their advantage ... and I have to fight for something I have worked hard for, for over 30 years.
This Man has more money than most of us will see in a life time, but will still fight for more... I don't live in his world, so I am not good at it.
But I will have to become good or my name will be slammed and slandered. All because I was not careful and didn't get him to sign something... I slipped up and started to feel he care for a bit. and now I am being accused of stealing and fraud, and what ever else he can throw my way. His past is his past... and is now blending into my life by just being associated with him... believe me this is not an easy time for me... but I will get through it. I am not perfect... but I don't hurt people and have never ripped anyone off... I love my industry way to much to do that... having people pay what they can or having them in my class for free is not a rip off... I guess it was his way of showing me how stupid I was for thinking that he cared... he is now saying he knew nothing... I am still trying to figure this one out. I am also trying to figure out how and what I was thinking when I truly thought he was on the same page as me when it came to working in this industry. I will probably retire in a few years so it was important to me when it came to making a difference or change with new blood in the industry. Even if I wanted to believe there was a bit of truth to him.. he is proving me wrong every day that he continues this behaviour.
IMAGINE THIS MAN WHO NEVER EVEN KNEW WHAT ACTING WAS BEFORE TAKING OVER THIS ACADEMY IS TRYING TO STOP ME FROM TEACHING BECAUSE HE THINKS HE CAN... HE HAS BEEN DOING THINGS LIKE THIS FOR SO LONG THAT HE NOW BELIEVES HE IS ABOVE THE LAW.. AND TO SOME DEGREE MAYBE THE LAW LETS HIM BELIEVE THIS. HOWEVER I STILL BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE THAT WILL NOT TAKE THIS ANYMORE... WE CAN ONLY HOPE AND PRAY.
MY POINT IS PLEASE DON'T "JUST" TRUST PEOPLE. CHECK THINGS OUT. I AM SAD TO SAY THAT I THOUGHT PEOPLE WERE THEIR POSSIBILITIES NOT THEIR PAST. I AM BEING SLAPPED IN THE FACE FOR THAT WAY OF THINKING AND IT STINGS BUT I AM LEARNING. NOT TO SAY I WASN'T TOLD BECAUSE I WAS, ACTUALLY BY SOMEONE HE IS RELATED TO. I REALLY THOUGHT THINGS WERE GENUINE. PLEASE BECAREFUL AND IF YOU THINK OR EVEN HAVE THE SLIGHTEST FEELING THAT THINGS ARE NOT RIGHT... THEN IT'S NOT RIGHT.
When I begin again which will be very soon, I will make sure things are done properly and with people who care about the same things I do. I am now 52 years old and feel like I am starting all over again. But I take responsiblity for this and believe I am not the victum, but that the people that got caught up in this situation are the real victums. I will do my best to make that up to them and myself.
OH AND BY THE WAY .. I DID NOT POST ANYTHING THAT SAYS CONTACT POLICE OR ACTRA... ANYTHING I POST... I HAVE NO PROBLEM PUTTING MY NAME TO IT... ACTRA AND THE POLICE ARE NOT REPRESENTATIVE OF ONE ANOTHER AND I BELIEVE THIS WAS WORDED WRONG... AND THEREFORE WAS MIS UNDERSTOOD. THAT IS ONLY MY ASSUMPTION. BUT "NO" I DID NOT POST THAT... ON THIS [redacted].
Cheers,
JAK
Juli-Ann Kay,
Casting Director / Acting & Performance Coach
Jennifer Gibson and the Academy she teaches at are all part of the J R Powers same rip off stuff. I don't know if they are working together but they are all hiring the same circle of people.
Jennifer Gibson works for Mann Casting and Gloria Mann does work for John Robert Powers, who has been stealing money from people for years.
Now she works for UniversalActingAcademy on Dundas and that is owned by Max talent agency and they are owned by the Zaidi family.
The Zaidi family have been taking the money of people for years. Now that I am checking people are telling me the stories about the Zaidi clan, I will get into that in a minute
What a circle of people. I called the School that Jennifer Gibson works at and I asked the girl who owns the school and she got really rude with me on the phone.
Then started talking about things I didn't even ask about. When I asked her name she hung up on me.
I went on the internet and then called the agency that Jennifer Gibson is on and they hung up on me. I called back and they said she is not a casting director but works for Mann Casting sometimes. Then I called there and they said she doesn't work there but used to work there.
Okay then, this guy says, do you want to know if she is a scam? I said what? And he said well I don't think she is.
I didn't even ask. So I decided to check into it and I called the Max place because I have been reading that they own the school that this Jennifer Gibson works at and they start getting all defensive.
I went further and found out this:
Gloria Mann owns Mann Casting and her son Stephen works there and he is the one who I spoke to. His Mother does work for J R Powers and they are affiliated with Just Canadian Talent who is related to the people who own Max who is a guy called kamaran zaidi who owns universal Academy Of Acting who goes by two names, Michael D'Marco and Kamaran Zaidi who has Jennifer Gibson teaching at his Acting school but he doesn't tell people he owns it but Jennifer who also works for Mann Casting who is telling people, mostly the students of this school, she is a big actor and a casting director is really just a actor who has done a couple of things. But Stephen Mann says she is not a casting director that she just used to assist sometimes bringing people in and out of the audition room
I did more checking and now I find out that the Marla Mann Agency had been known for ripping people off. Marla Mann was and still is on the no check list on the Actra website due to ripping of talent when she was an agent.
Gloria the mother works for J R powers and her son sits in the office defending all of these people, Now I don't know what he has done except he is very defensive on the phone and sounds like he should just get out of there.
When I tried to get a hold of the guy at Max who has two names they got all defensive and this girl gets on the phone and starts questioning me who is just trying to find out where everyone is working, it's a public business right, I have a right to know if they are all the same people or what they can do for me.
I am a law student and just wanted to get into the commercial and print part of the business. I was scouted at a Mall with two friends, they went to Max I didn't but said if its good let me know. But they were ripped off for photo's at a really weird place where the photographer said they only work for Max Talent, Then my friends were sent to the Acting School where they said they were going to get courses for free but then they tried to get my friends to pay for more classes when the classes were horrible, my friends have gone to classes before and said she is not very good although she is nice enough, she shouldn't be an acting teacher. That sparked me to start checking in to this, and then the information started flowing.
So from what I can gather there used to be a Julia Kay teaching there.
So I called her and she said she can't talk about anything and doesn't want to get into negative talk? Okay, I said, but are you still teaching there?, she said all she can say is that is she doesn't work there and has nothing to do with any people that are associated with anybody or anything.
I checked into her and she seems like she is a legit casting director, she taught there but now has nothing to do with any of them. When I asked her for information she said she had no comment that I would have to call the ActingSchool. I then talked to a few people of face book and they said she was an excellent Acting Teacher. So I called her back and said I am just trying to get information on the school before my friends pay for more classes. She said you will have to call the school, I told her I did and they got rude, she said sorry but I am not associated with any people there. It sounds like she just wants nothing to do with anybody. Wonder Why?
So I called Actra, and they only acknowledge Juliann Kay saying she is a casting director and has been for years.
But anyone else I ask about is as follows:
Max Talent Agency - Not reputable, Just Canadian Talent - Not reputable, Jennifer Gibson - Not a Casting Director and they don't know her to be an acting teacher, Mann Casting they just said they cast but didn't want to say more than that, JR Powers - Not reputable.
Okay that is not the end, then I check into the Zaidi's and they have been known for years to be scammmmmmers. This guy kamaran was up on charges and his brother is a the same his name is hassaine zaidi. I checked on this because my friends see a notice about a criminal investigation on the School Website, not a usual thing so that led me to start checking on this school, which is how I found the Zaidi names now apparently there are more of them and I am still checking.
But I did find out that Hassaine owned a school called Show Biz Academy that his brother kamaran now owns but is now called Unieveral Academy Acting.
I have been on the computer for weeks, not because it affects me but because it's a real circle and it's kind of fun to find out what and who some of these people really are.
I am a law student and very curious about investigating things. I started out wanting to get into the business and now I just want to investigate it.
I do know someone or some people are getting ripped off and that is why I am writing on this site, there are already reports on Max Talent and others on this site so I want to let people know what I am finding out.
Who know's it might save someone's hard earned money. This Kamaran Zaidi has been in the paper but somehow only got probation and his partner did a few years for fraud in the same business, Peter Holub was his partners name.
This guy also owned a modeling agency called, yes you guessed it "Zaidi Models" with his brother Hassaine Zaidi, and they were on a T.V. show called W5 for yes you guessed it again, ripping people off.
There are other's in the Zaidi clan in the city of Toronto that own Talent Agencies only two I can find out other than Max is Just Canadian Talent on Spadina and Moro Talent, Near King and Spadina. Apparently there were more but they shut down and open under other names as soon as they are reported to be scams.
But what I don't understand, YET! is why would a casting agency, Mann Casting get themselves involved with the Zaidi's, JR Powers and this Jennifer Gibson if they have a legit casting company. Greed may be the answer but I think it goes further.
I will let you all know as I continue to check into this spider web.
Zagirl