Max Agency review: modeling/ acting fraud 36

This is what I know about Uzi Zaidi aka Mike Herts, Saroor Hassan Zaidi:
I first heard of Uzi when he worked at Zaidi models with his brother Zoomie and his uncle Hassain. The agency was called Zaidi Models. I later ran into him a short time after he opened his first agency called Blitz models. He had moved from Mississauga and was now working in a downtown location. He had said he had left zaidi models to team up with his brother who owned two other agencies one called MTM| which was located in Mississauga, and Moro model management which was located downtown Toronto. He said that he would sign me through his agency which was Blitz and then transfer my file to Moro when they found me work. I found that fishy. Two weeks later Blitz models disappeared. I went down to speak to Zoomie and he said that he had taken over his brothers agency’s through moro and Uzi had to leave for Pakistan. I later looked on the internet and checked through other agency’s and found out that a lot of people got ripped off at Blitz and that it was a non-legitimate agency. UIt seems like Uzi would sign all these people, then his agency closed and his brother would hand select a few and the rest got left with nothing but broken promises. After some time passed Uzi popped up again with Casting Toronto, Century Models, and M Models, and we all know what happened after that. I question the credibility of the Zaidi family. A legitimate booking agency has no need to advertise. I find that any agency director that creates a You tube video of himself while looking incredibly stoned is a disgrace to all other agents. Further more Moros creditability regarding its bookings is based upon its original owner who started the company and named it after his mother and was partnered to a weall know casting director. The Zaidi family has been around since the early 90’s the only was to stop them is to truly educate yourself on the industry standards before walking into one of these agencies. Note: Hassain Zaidi in the late 90’s early 2000’s was charged with the same offence and also starred in his very own W5 special.
FA|M|ILY TREE:
(Uncle|) Hassain Zaidi, former owner of Zaidi Models, legitimate film producer and film financee.
(Nephew of Hassain Zaidi) Uzi Zaidi, casting Toronto century models, m models, zaidi models, moro model & talent, max models M|TM, blitz, and showcase,
(Brother of Uzi, Nephew of Hassain) Zoomie Zaidi, casting Toronto century models, m models, zaidi models, moro model & talent, max models M|TM, blitz, and showcase.
I believe they are all involved together this is a family affair if you look into one you should look into all.

zaidis are part of the organized crime family in toronto. they have not only filtered there black money through agencies, but also clubs. Uzi Zaidi use to be part of the club called V nite club on yorkville. I saw him there with some cubans and russians. He was also involved in financing Pakistan President Musharraf to stay in power. This family is very dangerous, and belong to a sect of Moslem [censored]te's. I wish you Zaidis burn in hell.
Here is a pic of Uzi Zaidi taken when he was under investigation. The zaidis love there mercedes collection, money earned through fraud and racketeering.
family:

Hassain Zaidi
Uzi Zaidi
Camran Zaidi
Zoomy Zaidi
Faraz Zaidi
Shahzah Zaidi

More to come on them, stay tuned
badgirl

zaidi's should just be punished. I just came across this, and LaCite scammed me for $4000. Mark Heinz was the Agent. Now I know he works for these zaidi clowns. HOW DO YOU STOP ALL THIS! HOW! I WANT JUSTICE! I used my osap money for it. I wish you zaidi;s nothing but a dark life. if i can get hold of one of you, black magic would be the answer of all this... will visit one of your office soon.

OKAY it's a battle but who is really writing all of this the above poster sounds the same as all the posters who are causing all the problem. They write the same with the same names and the same childish wording "be ashamed" you shouldn't throw stones Ha Ha. I have read all of this funny stuff and they are trying way too hard to mention names. TISK TISK TISK they have nothing better to do. Real Posters are talking about something totally different in some posts and that same poster keeps coming on and mentioning the same names. You are giving yourself away Ha Ha. I know you because I have the same blood as you.

Trying to cause conflict, but you do it in your real life to, Ha Ha Ha. Now Now, he who mentions names, are trying to take the attention off them selves.

But in the end who really cares We don't care anymore we know who the bad guy is. We are not as stupid as you think we are.

Get off this already go home and count your money that is what you do best.

Mari Plan aka Zara aka Lawrence aka Linda aka clydesdaleinsider aka Juliann Kay:
You should be ashamed of yourself for defaming reputable businesses for your vindictiveness. If you have a real problem with any of the people you are slandering here, you should go to the police. But you are only here to damage them because you are a bitter vindictive individual and this is the easiest thing a person like you can do. Make a thousand more posts and contact whoever you want. The truth prevails in the end.

Ms. Cingolani, I highly commend you for your straight forward and professional post. It is a pity that you have been dragged into this by the above mentioned person and had to post here. You run a highly reputable school, your services to the performing arts are impeccable and no one can question that.

I do not post on these types of chat sites as I believe it sensationalizes small issues and breeds negativity, however myself and my business have been attacked and I feel the need to comment. This thread was brought to my attention by an email and after having read it in its entirety, I am shocked at the content.

I would like to first bring attention to the comments that seem to be feeding this thread by Mari Plant. Please note that I have saved our correspondence including my 4 line reply to your very long message. I have no problem posting it in its entirety as you did specifically ask about and mention both Juli-Ann Kay, Kamran Zaidi, Universal Academy of Acting, and MAX agency. In my reply, I recommend doing some research and contact Casting Workbook, ACTRA, Equity, TAMAC, and the Toronto Police Authority. This is not in reference to anyone one specific person or company, it was simply a suggestion of multiple organizations that may help you verify any information and/or rumors regarding all of the above, crossing your desk. I would appreciate it if you leave the untrue comments regarding myself and my business out of your associations and online postings. As a reminder, slander is an illegal offence and punishable by law.

My relationship with Juli-Ann Kay ended due to unforeseen circumstances before any conflict began between both her and the Universal Academy of Acting/Kamran Zaidi. I have always wished Juli-Ann nothing but the best of luck in her future endeavors.

Ross Clydesdale is one of multiple guests artists (in film/tv, dramatic arts, music, improv., dance) who have given workshops at my academy. I was very happy with the services he provided during his 3 hour clinic in December. If he has established a teaching relationship at Universal Academy of Acting, it is none of my business and not in my knowledge.

I will reiterate that we are not connected to Universal Academy, Kamran Zaidi, MAX agency, or any of their affiliates. I do not know their history in the film/tv business, nor do I care to take the time to know. It does not concern myself or the studio and I do not wish them any ill will.

The Cingolani name and reputation speaks for itself. We have prided ourselves on offering high quality training in multiple disciplines for over 46 years and have impeccable references both in Toronto and north of the city. It does not need to be defended.

I will not waste any more of my time on this discussion.

Ross clydesdale, is helping a wellknow family that has been frauding people for many years.

He is using the excuse that he is helping kids find a place in the business. He knows who he is working for and continues to do this knowing full well it's hurting many many people

He was tossed from the business years ago for drinking and other disorderly and unethical things in the casting room.

Now he is at it again but with another scammer Kamran Zaidi.

Kamran Zaidi and his brother Hassain come from a Modeling agency called Zaidi models, they were investigated and then had to shut down do to the press that came with it.

The Kamran Zaidi who has many other alias, started another scam with Peter Holub in the end he snitched on his parter, so he would only get probation and his partner did the jail time.

The Zaidi's then got Julianne k. to teach for them now she has rolled on them and Ross Clydesdale took her place.

Did you all know Julianne used to work with Ross Clydesdale. Yes it's true the worked together when I was acting.

He was the drunk and she was the one who hid it from everyone but she didn't do a very good job.

She should be a shamed of herself for not telling all of these innocent people that both of the Men, Ross Clydesdale and Kamran Zaidi have teamed up and are now on the same team.

She is just as guilty because she is in hiding to now. Thought you were a mother of an Actress Julianne. Or being a mother should be enough you are hiding and that makes me more mad that you are just letting this happen.

You are not in it anymore, tell people what you know stop being a coward.

It's probably, the cingolni chick, she dosen't admit to anything but it's evident she is pissed that people are in the know who she really is.

Let me do some more research on her. Does she having agencies attached to that school? Anyone know.

Whey up there she could be scaming and no one would know about it now would they.

Yes she, Ms Kay did respond.

She said that the cigoloni school in Barrie is reputable but that she can't say why the same people are working there because she doesn't know anything about either school now.

This Renee girl is not someone I would want to know, sorry just my opinion. Seems like quite the know it all but has no manners.

I had to apologize to her just because Ms Kay seems to want us to keep the cigoloni school out of things, she didn't say those words exactly but it was implied.

I begin to have more and more respect for her as time goes on, just because people want to save their reputations by allowing people like the Zaidis to do what the do, but with the same breath they will slam them, but not slam them. They are very two faced, as you can tell not a fan of this Renee Girl or her school, sorry Ms Kay my opinon.

I can't post the email, Ms. Kay replied but put a cc to Renee at the cigoloni school so I don't want to post Ms Kays email.

I replied that I respect her response, and I do.

Knowing now how many people in this business will work with these people in the way they do, you have to give it to Ms Kay for standing up to them alone. Well she is not alone, Lawrence is right, we have to be there with her.

She did say that she dosen't know Karman Zaidi as well as people think she does. I thought it was a few years but she said it's only been a couple of years and the first year she didn't see him because she only taught on the weekends. She knew his brother, that must be hassain zaidi then Kamran took of the school.

All in all if it was only two years, it didn't take her long to stand up to him.

Zagirl, can you tell us what this family member says, becareful these people are very good at lies and deception. Thats how they got rich.

I am waiting, finally she has responded to someone?

I am jealous. Come Mari, Plant it on us.

I have also been trying to call a few people and have gotten some interesting information along the way.

Kamran Zaidi has several family members, one of them is going to talk to me. I don't know if I will be able to share what they tell me. But I will certainly do right with the information.

I know one thing posters, this one aint happy with the family.

Be back soon

I want to also say,

Shame on people like the Cingolani School for not standing firm on such an important issue.

I do believe the seminar I attended included a Theater teacher that was recommended by Juli-Ann, as this was part of a conversation Renee had with an participant that night.

You have complete permission to allow this post to be viewed by The Cingolani School and Renee, however I do not wish any replies and will not post again.

I think I have stated my position clearly.

Linda Ashton

I have been directed to this site and am astonished at these Performing Arts schools. They are the rudest people I have met in my long history of being in this business.

I have not personally dealt with Renee Cingolan

I do know She Raved about this Juli-Ann Kay and had her do press and a T.V. Spot on Rogers. I attended a Seminar at her school with Juli-Ann Kay and later took private classes at a small space on young street with her. I did four hours of privates with Juli-Ann Kay and it was amazing what I learned after being in the business for over 20 years. She is insightful, She spoke highly of Renne and Her School,

I emailed Juli-Ann in Mid November as I was back in Toronto and wanted to brush up on some skills. I don't live in Barrie but I have family there so I thought I would come take the Barrie Classes she gives.

The email I received was completely professional I will put an exerpt below

I am not teaching there anylonger, however Renee has some fabulous teachers there now, call her and set something up.
I couldn't be there as much as I wanted and Renee has a very busy little place there, call her it's a happening place in Barrie, LOL

Hope your doing good, and congrats on the film and thanks for the link."

To think that anyone would side with these terrible Zaidi people and their frandulant companies agaist a lady like this, ensures only that they are not the type of business people that I would deal with or recommend.

I am not a poster on these sites and this is not a place I will return to write my feelings and thoughts, but this needed to be said.

I am a fan of Juli-Ann Kay, and rightfully so she is the kindest individual I have met in this business I have chosen to spend my life in. She is a professional that deserves my posting on this site.

She does not need any of our words of recommendation, her kind stand solid on good reputations standards. But it's nice to beable to say it anyway.

Linda Ashston

I emailed this Renne chick at the cigoloni School in Barrie.
When I asked if she had ANYTHING to do with the Universal Academy of Acting or MAX AGency or did she have any ownership in any Company that the Zaidi's own, that it was curious that they have the same "used to be" Casting Director working for them, (I have check him out, he is not a casting director anymore and she has it on her website that he is, the same ploy the Zaidi's are using) she replied with a very rude email stating that Juli-Ann Kay does not work there anymore and she is not personally associated with her? I did NOT ask about Juli-Ann Kay. We all are aware that Juli-Ann Kay is not associated with either school, maybe a good thing for her now that this seems a little one sided between these Acting School People. Then she told me to do my research? She is the one that is hiring people that are working for scammers, I suggest she do her research. I have done mine. Also if she does her research Juli-Ann Kay is not the one that you need to distance yourself from, as I understand it she is the one who put her name in the eye for all to see to let people know what she knew, Either this lady is too far up north and thinks she has the facts or something is wrong in Denver.

The more I know about this whole thing the more I am respecting this Juli-Ann Kay. I honestly had no feelings one way or another. But when you see people jumping to paticular name when you are asking a very broad question, it is usually because people are in a click and have already discussed this person. Clicks are dangerous, as they suggest you don't need anyother opinion.

I have re-read all that I could find about or by Juli-Ann Kay, she is honest about her faults and does not make any mistake in what she says. I believe Lawrence now when he says these people must be stopped, and people like Juli-Ann Kay need to be up held.

This Renne Chick didn't even seem to care that people in her own business are being ripped off, she just wanted to mention one name and that was Juli-Ann Kay. She never really answered why she has the type of people working at her School by their own names, she need not tell us to do our research. How does she think we found her?

Ps. A quick google search for Uzi Zaidi ... the same Zaidi mentioned in the Dubais Next Top Model scam article I found earlier ... brought me this link ...

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-Group-of-Pakistans-Next-Top-Model-Reality-TV-Show/123214451075031?v=wall&filter=2

Its a group on Facebook for Pakistanis Next Top Model.

Lets hope its a safe contest, unlike the scams in Alberta, Quebec and Dubai, all seemingly connected to the Zaidis in one way or another.

Let me hear you say UH-OH...

Interesting...

So theyll refer people to eachothers schools over the phone, but not through email. Sounds like theyre too scared to admit their connection in writing because theyre betting no one will record the phone conversations.

I smell scammers who think the public are naive and ignorant - how about you!

I read an email that the cigoloni school in Barrie replied to one of our posters, can't say who. and can't post it but here it is in a nut shell:
The reply email stated that they are not affiliated with MAX Agency, & Universal Academy of Acting. The also said they are not associated with any person that has anything to do with MAX Agency or Universal Academy.

But they are, Ross clydale works for them and Universal Academy of Acting? So it's all getting very muddy.

Lawrence... I sent you a pm, check it out. I hope you get permission to post what you've received!

To all posters:
I have just received an interesting email, I will share it with you all once I get permission to do so.

Her name is Renee, the Barry School Owner.

And yes she is working with Kamran Zaidi from the Universal Academy of Acting. I calle d as a new student and found out that they were both referring one anothers schools.

Now I am starting to catch on what is going on here. This is a mission now.

If they have been working together for any length of time, then this means much more that I even knew.

I will get back to all of you when I find out what I think is happening.

I don't want to say anything until I know for sure.

I am calling a reporter friend of mine from the Sun And I will get to the bottom of this.

Now I am pissed.

It is obvious that everyone who works for these companies or at least hired the same people, know what they are into. Or they are part of it.

I am not even in this business and I can find out who and what is going on. So I don't believe there are any unknowing individuals that would participate with this Family that has been known for scamming people in such a serious way, for years.

I really want to talk to this Julianne how can I get her on the phone or get her to respond. Does anyone know her personally, she is the ticket here, she is the one they are trying to keep quiet.

Please let me know how I can talk to her in private, I won't display anything she says I would just like to talk to her or even have a email convo with her.

the email of the company that is owned by the newest member working for the Zaidi's Universal Academy of Acting is admin@visuallyreel.com They are called

Visually Reel. They do resume's on line. I have sent the link to a few people.

found out email for the school in barrie
cingolani@rogers.com Lets see what they have to say?

cingolani school in barry is another school that seems to have the same people working for them?

Does anyone know anything about them.

found out that the Universal Academy of Acting is doing some stuff with them? And the same Casting director, Ross Clydale is working for both schools.

He has some internet thing, who owns this... could it be the Zaidi clann again?

Back to the research... will let you know

A lot of information has been posted while I was away.
A lot of great information. I believe that things really should be more closely governed in this Acting business. Being in law I am surpirsed that this is allowed to continue for as long as it has. This is one Family?

I knew there must have been deeper issues at hand. They are fighting this lady julianne, they took a chance by bringing attention to themselves. Dont they know that to be a good scam artist you must remain nameless and the key is to be quiet. They forgot the golden rule. Tisk Tisk Tisk

I see francis has not posted yet, wonder why?

Note to all scammers: read and learn what not to do.

Let me know if anyone gets in touch with the journalist, in the mean time I will email him.

I found the W5 article on this family, I will post it. Is W5 still on the air?

Ummm.

Dubais Next Top Model, Albertas Next Top Model, and Quebecs Next Top Model ALL mention La Cite/Century Models (Toronto) as a point of contact. News articles have included fights where as theyve investigated, the owners of both agencies refuse to explain why they were at the same address, and threatened to have lawyers call the newspaper upon further questioning.

Seems scaring people off with the threat of a lawyer calling is how they handle everyone. They even threatened The Gazette with a lawyer during an investigation from the Quebecs Next Top Model! Hahahahaha. Havent found a case thats actually carried through to court yet though, which can only mean one thing. When you want to scare someone, send a lawyers letter without evidence. 99.9% of them will freak out and shut up. Just like 99.9% of people will pay anything to sign with an agency. Am I the only one with street smarts here?

I dont have a letter yet, so it looks like Im still free to post! Wonder how long it will take them to try and scare me into quitting my research. Ill let you all know!

Haha, suckers.

Here's my post again, it deserves a clear read, lol:

I wish it was reading week so I could justify all the researching Ive just done on Max/Universal Academy/Albertas Next/Aliases/etc. I can only hope that my midterms will gain the same dedication as this thread has perpetuated! Haha.

Okay, tip of the iceburg, but time to share some coincidences Ive found:

As we have all figured out by now, Max Agency owns their photographer and the Acting school (Universal Academy of Acting) which they of course suggest to their talent. Judging by the numerous posts on /link removed/ this thread, and countless others, thats 3 separate entities with funding all going to the same person. Of course nobody knows this until they research or its too late. The entertainment industry needs a system to filter out this kind of ###, but unfortunately nothing governs it, and people get sucked into the IM GOING TO BE A STAR mentality, and pay whatever theyre asked. No easy way to say it. Everyone wants to believe that theyll make it & thats how easy it is to scam us.

I decided to check into the Albertas Next Top Model Scam idea.

Cam Traynor and Kamran Zaidi (Max/Universal Academy owner) sounds like a name thats easily been changed. But you cant assume. So I looked into it more.

The address for the main contact for Albertas Next Top Model was: 626 Burnhamthorpe in Mississauga.

Other contacts for that same address (dont you love Google?):

1) Showbiz Academy (owned by Hussain Zaidi)
2) Albertas Next Top Model (Cam Traynor- lets assume for humour that this is Kamran Zaidi)
3) Just Canadian Talent (its old address, and interestingly enough, Jason Cameron who runs the agency, who Ive read is called J.C, is mentioned in several newspaper articles about Albertas Next Top Model, and has been connected with Kamran Zaidi. Hmmm.)

So, with more research, read THIS article:

From: http://www.7days.ae/storydetails.php?id=74644&title=More%2520models%2520duped

(beginning of article)

More models duped
Tuesday 3 Mar, 2009

The people who ran the Dubais Next Top Model competition are believed to be behind a Toronto agency that has a conviction for taking thousands of dirhams from a Canadian model. As 7DAYS revealed yesterday, dozens of young women claim that organisers of Dubais Next Top Model have disappeared after taking their money at an audition last August. It now appears the competition was run by the same people behind La Cite Modelling Agency in Toronto, which has been the subject of dozens of complaints in Canada. La Cite is also believed to trade as Century Models and Talent Agency, which ran ;Quebecs Next Top Model & in July and has also been the subject of complaints. A function room at a Dubai hotel was booked by Saroor Zaidi, who is named as the producer of Ontarios Next Top Model competition. The phone number he left at the hotel matches that of the La Cite and Century agencies.

Zaidi, also known by the surname Uzi, travelled to Dubai to help organise the contest. Another man organising and presenting the Dubai competition, Frank Costello, is named as the director of Century Modelling. Dozens of young women were left in limbo after organisers failed to turn up for the photoshoots they had paid for. Andy Eagar, who paid dhs10, 300 to enter his daughter, Kayleigh, into the contest said he would love to confront the organisers face-to-face. He said: My money is gone but I would still like to confront them, ask them how they could do this. The Better Business Bureau in Mid-Western and Central Ontario gives La Cite and Century failure ratings due to the string of complaints it has received. Costello, Uzi and the La Cite and Century offices did not return calls seeking comment. Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services said La Cite was
convicted of failing to provide services to a model last year.

(end of article)

Zaidi Zaidi Zaidi.

So now (if our assumptions are correct) we have the following connections:

Quebecs next top model, La Cite Agency (Toronto), (Century models), Mark Heinz (name associated with a few talent agencies from Toronto based on complaints from the internet), Albertas Next Top Model and more. Much much more.

Sounds like either one very rich man is developing multiple personality disorder, or its a family thing.

www.modelmayhem.com has tons of interesting gossip. Same names and scams are mentioned. And even people who say they used to work for Max Agency get vocal!

Its been suggested that Moro Talent and Orange Models are involved with the Zaidi family as well (modelmayhem, other complaint sites)

Im in the same boat as others. How can people like this continue?

Answer: sounds like they thought aliases were the key to their money making success!

BUT

If someone like me who has never acted, met a photographer, etc. can figure out coincidence, the huge scams not a huge smart scam. LOL.

Itss 2011 people, google tells all. All it takes is a a couple hours of your time. And if I was the parent of someone interested in getting into this sort of thing, or someone adult enough to check up themselves, a couple hours is worth the money these people are asking for!

Ps. Although Im into chemistry, not acting, my friend who works at an agency in Toronto as an assistant mentioned that they were emailed from a Cam at Universal Academy of Acting months ago, offering their roster basic acting classes for free. Seemed like a nice enough offer, too good to be true though, and a misplaced offer to say the least, considering most were already Actra certified and didnt need training of that sort. Only reason why I add this is the COINCINDENCE that Cam from Universal Academy sounds like Cam Traynor from AlbertasNext Top Model scam/KAMran from Max Agency.

Id love to know whos calling who right now. Id give anything to be a fly on the wall to see if we are hitting it right on the dot with all this!

If the right people are contacted and start investigating this thoroughly, Id hate to be working at Universal Academy, Max, or any other affiliates right now.

Theres bound to be a whole lot of questioning in their near future.

LOL... this site doesn't like it when we use quotations... sorry for the messy post!

I wish it was reading week so I could justify all the researching I’ve just done on Max/Universal Academy/Alberta’s Next/Aliases/etc…. I can only hope that my midterms will gain the same dedication as this thread has perpetuated! Haha.

Okay… tip of the iceburg but... time to share some coincidences I’ve found:

As we’ve all figured out by now, Max Agency owns their photographer and the Acting school (Universal Academy of Acting) which they “suggest” to their “talent”. Judging by the numerous posts on /link removed/ this thread, and countless others, that’s 3 “separate” entities with funding all going to the same person. Of course nobody knows this until they research or it’s too late. The entertainment industry needs a system to filter out this kind of ###… but unfortunately nothing governs it, and people get sucked into the “I’m going to be a STAR!” mentality, and pay whatever they’re asked. No easy way to say it – everyone wants to believe that they’ll make it – that’s how easy it is to scam us.

I decided to check into the “Alberta’s Next Top Model” scam idea.

Cam Traynor and Kamran Zaidi (Max/Universal Academy owner) sounds like a name that’s easily been changed. But you can’t assume. So I looked into it more.

The address for the “main contact” for Alberta’s Next Top Model was: 626 Burnhamthorpe in Mississauga.

Other “contacts” for that same address (don’t you love Google?):

1) Showbiz Academy (owned by Hussain Zaidi)
2) Alberta’s Next Top Model (Cam Traynor- let’s assume for humour that this is Kamran Zaidi)
3) Just Canadian Talent (it’s old address, and interestingly enough, Jason Cameron who runs the agency, who I’ve read is called J.C, is mentioned in several newspaper articles about Alberta’s Next Top Model, and has been connected with Kamran Zaidi… hmmm… )

Soooo…. with more research…. read THIS article:

From: http://www.7days.ae/storydetails.php?id=74644&title=More%2520models%2520duped

“More models duped
Tuesday 3 Mar, 2009

The people who ran the ‘Dubai’s Next Top Model’ competition are believed to be behind a Toronto agency that has a conviction for taking thousands of dirhams from a Canadian model. As 7DAYS revealed yesterday, dozens of young women claim that organisers of ‘Dubai’s Next Top Model’ have disappeared after taking their money at an audition last August. It now appears the competition was run by the same people behind La Cite Modelling Agency in Toronto, which has been the subject of dozens of complaints in Canada. La Cite is also believed to trade as Century Models and Talent Agency, which ran ‘Quebec’s Next Top Model’ in July and has also been the subject of complaints. A function room at a Dubai hotel was booked by Saroor Zaidi, who is named as the producer of ‘Ontario’s Next Top Model’ competition. The phone number he left at the hotel matches that of the La Cite and Century agencies.

Zaidi, also known by the surname Uzi, travelled to Dubai to help organise the contest. Another man organising and presenting the Dubai competition, Frank Costello, is named as the director of Century Modelling. Dozens of young women were left in limbo after organisers failed to turn up for the photoshoots they had paid for. Andy Eagar, who paid dhs10, 300 to enter his daughter, Kayleigh, into the contest said he would love to confront the organisers face-to-face. He said: “My money is gone but I would still like to confront them, ask them how they could do this.” The Better Business Bureau in Mid-Western and Central Ontario gives La Cite and Century ‘failure’ ratings due to the string of complaints it has received. Costello, Uzi and the La Cite and Century offices did not return calls seeking comment. Ontario Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services said La Cite was
convicted of failing to provide services to a model last year.”

Zaidi Zaidi Zaidi...

So now (if our assumptions are correct) we have the following connections:

Quebec’s next top model → La Cite Agency (Toronto) → (Century models) → Mark Heinz (name associated with a few talent agencies from Toronto based on complaints from the internet) → Alberta’s Next Top Model and more → etc etc etc….

Sounds like either one very rich man is developing multiple personality disorder, or it’s a family thing…

www.modelmayhem.com has tons of interesting gossip… same names and scams are mentioned… and even people who say they used to work for Max Agency get vocal!

It’s been suggested that Moro Talent & Orange Models are involved with the Zaidi family as well (modelmayhem, other complaint sites)

I’m in the same boat as others… “how can people like this continue?”

Answer: sounds like they thought aliases were the key to their money making success!

BUT…

If someone like me who’s never acted, met a photographer, etc. can figure out coincidences… the huge scam’s not a huge smart scam. LOL.

It’s 2011 people… google tells all… all it takes is a a couple hours of your time... and if I was the parent of someone interested in getting into this sort of thing, or someone adult enough to check up themselves, a couple hours is worth the money these people are asking for!

Ps. Although I’m into chemistry, not acting, my friend who works at an agency in Toronto as an assistant mentioned that they were emailed from a “Cam” at Universal Academy of Acting months ago, offering their roster basic acting classes for “free”… seemed like a nice enough offer… too good to be true though… considering most were already Actra certified and didn’t need training of that sort. Only reason why I add this is the COINCINDENCE that Cam from Universal Academy sounds like Cam Traynor from Alberta’s Next Top Model scam.

I’d love to know who’s calling who right now. I’d give anything to be a “fly on the wall” to see if we’re hitting it right on the dot with all this!

If the right people are contacted and start investigating this thoroughly, I’d hate to be working at Universal Academy, Max, or any other affiliates right now… hahahaha… there’s bound to be a whole lot of questioning!

Sounds wierd, The Guys name was CAM? and KAMran Zaidi owns MAX Agency? could be just a simple case of same name, different spelling? :-( I will do some checking

I have a friend at one of the newspapers out there. I am going to call them.

I remember reading about that Alberta's next Top Models.

If this is true how are people allowed to continue this stuff?

All this mother would have to do is identify one of them right?

I have posted something above that I think may be interesting to some people. I cut and paste off another ripp off website.

LM

I am living in Toronto now with my two girls and wonder if someone can read the article below and tell me if the owner of MAX Agency is the same guy who started the Alberta's Next Top Model. Please let me know, We were scammed out of more that 1, 700.00 dollars. If this the same people please email smckeen@thejournal.canwest.com at The Edmonton Journal
and reply to this post.

There was another younger dark guy too he worked closely with who I think was the master mind for this scam. I would know them if I seen them. Please help me with this.

I was directed to this sight from a parent who thinks these people may be affiliated or the same people.

Alberta's Next Top Model kicked off the catwalk?
.by Modeling/Talent Agency on Thursday, December 18, 2008 at 10:29pm.Please share this article with anyone who is involved with this contest or thinking about paying a lot of money to enter something similar.
1. You should NEVER have to pay to see a reputable agent.
2. Further, there are some good fashion photographers who call Edmonton home! (Tina Chang, Ashley Armstrong etc.)
3. Don't judge all agencies (new or old) because of this latest news story. Some of us are legit and care about the kids we sign.

Contest organizers walk a narrow ethical line

Scott McKeen
The Edmonton Journal

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

If I create my own contest called Alberta's Most Adorable Baby and charge $300 to enter, is it ethical?

If thousands of parents enter their babies and I happen to make a six-figure profit, is it wrong? Sure, I'd be rich, but some Alberta couple would bask in the glory of spawning the most adorable baby in the province, as judged by me.

With those questions in mind, let's consider a real-world contest called Alberta's Next Top Model. The contest began months ago and drew potentially hundreds of contestants.

CHARGED TO ENTER

Several mothers I interviewed say their daughters first heard about the contest on Facebook, the Internet's hot networking site. Several auditions were held and contestants were charged $295, plus GST, to enter.

Debi Stephenson of Calgary allowed her daughter, Brooklyn, to enter. However, Stephenson said officials with Alberta's Next Top Model told her that her daughter needed a professional portfolio done.

She said she was told if not, her daughter couldn't get to Stage 2 of the competition. So Stephenson paid to have the contest's sanctioned photographers shoot pictures of Brooklyn. All told, the family spent $1, 700 on the venture. What did they end up with? Digital images on a compact disc.

"They were just terrible, " said Stephenson.

Still, she went reluctantly with Brooklyn to another contest date where the finalists were to be chosen. Strangely, Stephenson said she was warned by organizers not to talk to other parents or contestants.

Eventually, Brooklyn was rejected because, of all things, her fingernails weren't professionally manicured. Stephenson decided to break the silence and talked to other parents. Another girl was rejected for her choice of outfits. Yet another because of a gap in her teeth.

An Edmonton parent I interviewed was asked early on by contest officials if she was completely on board.

"We don't want any negative publicity, " she said they told her.

They also told her there were no credible fashion photographers in Edmonton, so she should use the contest's shooters. She declined and used an acquaintance, a certified pro in Edmonton, who did beautiful work for hundreds less.

Except the mother now doesn't know where to send the photographs. She also doesn't know the date of Stage 2. Her attempts to reach the organizers failed.

I ran into the same problem. I left two messages on the number listed at the contest's official website, but neither was returned.

No such problem, though, in reaching Ann Sutherland, owner of Toronto's Sutherland Models, the official agency for the TV reality show, Canada's Next Top Model. I asked her if contestants normally pay to enter contests like Canada's Next Top Model.

"Of course not, " said Sutherland. "It's just not done."

Sutherland then passed me to agency director Carole Reynolds, who has received calls from concerned parents in Alberta. Reynolds confirmed that Canada's Next Top Model is in no way affiliated with the Alberta contest.

Reynolds said people need to do their research before entering such contests or promotions. They must also be aware that there isn't much of a modelling industry in Canada outside of Toronto and Montreal. Yes, girls do get discovered in other parts of the country. But winning a regional contest guarantees nothing.

SCAMS EVERYWHERE

Reynolds said scam artists abound in the modelling and entertainment industry. They who prey on young people's dreams of fame and riches. Her advice? If you think your kid has potential, contact a legitimate agency like Mode Models in Calgary.

None of this is to say Alberta's Next Top Model is a scam.

That depends on organizers paying out the prizes and awarding a modelling contract as promised. If they do, their stated deal with contestants is fulfilled. But the legality of the contest also depends on what organizers told contestants.

Some parents were left with the impression the Alberta contest was affiliated with Canada's Next Top Model. A misunderstanding? Perhaps.

If parents were misled, though, it would represent a violation of Alberta's Fair Trading Act. Service Alberta has received a few calls about the contest at its Consumer Contact Centre, [protected]. But spokesman Cam Traynor said written complaints are required for an investigation to be launched.

It is completely possible, as I said, that the people behind Alberta's Next Top Model will name a winner, give out prizes and continue on hosting other such promotions and contests.

It might all be legal, if not adorable. Oh baby, it's a cynical world.

smckeen@thejournal.canwest.com

© The Edmonton Journal 2008
.

Wise Words.

Thanks for reminding people

One more thing I didn't mention to all of you, I was recruited to work for the Mississaug School so I know a lot more than I am saying.

I have been sitting back and just waiting for someone to say one more thing that is not true about Juli-Ann Kay.

I am sick of seeing all of these posts and stupid accusations. I know what Juli-Ann Kay was all about.

Don't forget I was an insider and I was also threatened with lawyers. I will call every person I know if you hurt her anymore. I may not being in this business now but I am still a friend of hers. She helped me in my life and now I own my own little business because she encouraged me.

You will not get away with what you have done. But I will do it the way it should have been done. That francis guy is either J.C. or Kamran most likley J.C. from just canadian talent. I was there when he was fighting with both his uncles and Juli-Ann was trying to smooth things out.

She has me in her corner and I am watching and listening to all that is going on. the more I write the more I get mad.

Can you figure out who I am now J.C. and or Hassain.

She was your instrument and all she wanted to do was make people believe that the Zaidi's could be better than what you were all accused of. OBSESSED What a joke!

She has not done anything to you! Just like I didn't. You stressed everyone who ever worked for any of you.

You don't care about people or Actors. It's always been about the money. Now that I have or had a real agent I know what an agent does. and none of you are real agents. It's all about making money on the photo's and now filtering all your clients through the school that Juli-Ann made.

Only now you are recruiting other to try and take over what she started. But it will never be the same, because she cared, yes she really cared. Hope that makes you really mad.

One of you will post now because you can't take the truth. I have read all the emails you sent out to people and the CRIMINAL thing you posted on websites. How could you even do that to her. Then you say she wasn't fired? Francis posts it on this website that she was fired. Make up your mind.

And to all the students who fell for their lies, think back on what she taught you in the class. She is being dammed for the very thing she told us all to watch out for. People who will do just about anything to make money. They will stoop to the levels that only ### would do.

I am one of those insiders that know everything. And I mean everything. Juli-Ann may not talk but if this continues I will.

I have nothing to lose in this business and everything to gain. You ganged up on her. So that is all you are is a cruel gang of people to me.

I told her she should take this to the streets. She said she would think about it if the threatening calls continue. But I know her she won't. For all the people she has met over the years and the lime light she could have taken, she has never been the type that likes the spot light.

She keeps saying she is at an age that maybe its time for her to leave. [censored], this is her best time and these people took it away from her.

I will be watching to see what happens, and I will get involved with the information I know if she gets hurt one more time.

if you are an old student of Juli-Ann Kay's listen to what I have to say.

She has helped more people than most people do in a life time. I have sent out an email to as many students as I could. And to Actra.

There are posters on this website and on others that are trying to ruin her.

I don't know who you are but I can guess. She is one of the only people in this industry that you can depend on or could depend on. From what I hear she will be finishing up the casting on her last film and then is thinking of leaving the business. Why? because certain people decided that they would frighten her. She believes that her name will just hinder people now. That is what she told me. This is heart breaking to some of us that know her. I have read some of the posts on this website and on others, and everytime someone writes something positive about her. These posters hide behind some unknown name and accuse them of being her that is posting. Why does it make them so mad that she is liked, you can't change what people feel about her. Did you think you could just wipe her off earth.

Well this is not her, I am a student from way back and I am telling you that she is better than what you have been posting about her. I was with Just Canadian Talent and then went to MAX agency. I was never sent out on a film audition NEVER, I got my first film from Juli-Ann and then my first Commercial from her. I left and am now with another Agent. But now that she is thinking about leaving, I don't want to be in an industry that can wipe the floor with someone like Juli-Ann.

I am not using my real name, because I don't want to, not because you are anything important but because you don't deserve to know who I am.

Juli-Ann even told J.C. that he could be a great Agent if he wanted to (I was sitting right in the room when she told him that) she tried to help Kamran Zaidi become more than he could have every hoped. When I said to her they are just using you, she said she could feel that he was starting to get a taste of being a film maker, she wanted him to take off and show everyone that he could do it. She even tried to start a reality show with him to make him see what bringing new talent to Toronto would mean. I was there during all of it. by the end of this email maybe you will all figure out who I am. I am sick at the thought that our mentor and teacher is leaving on this note: It's just not right.

She is not obsessed with the Zaidi Family, she taught at the schools they owned and made a great mark for them to follow. Instead of getting positive out of it, she was put out of a business that she loves. She worked for Hassain Zaidi and then when he was finished and made his money, he sold the school to his brother Kamran. She was nothing but fair to these people. If you are reading this then know that there are poeple out here that know the truth. She is being chased away because they want her to go away so they can get other people in the industry involved with their business and they don't want her to tell anyone the truth about what was going on. THAT IS WHAT THIS IS ALL ABOUT. She always taught people for free, even before she worked for any of their shcools.

I was closer to her than most. I remained a friend and she was my mentor and will continue to be. I am one of the ones on the Universal Academy of Acting Website with a testimonial, they even changed my words to reflect the School and not her. I did not write about that Academy, I didn't even go to that school, I went to the one in Mississauga when it was owned by the brother. They are manipulating everything they can. They can never take away who Juli-Ann Kay really is no matter how much they post on these websites. The truth is that they hurt a great teacher and Casting Director, that's all they did was hurt her. Her reputation will always stand. They are not unique they are just preditors. She is getting threatening calls and is afraid for her family, so she will remain quiet for that reason only.

I can't do anything because she wants us all to stay as quiet as her, that's why no one is using their name. She would flip if anyone got themselves in trouble. We all wanted to protest the Academy on Dundas. She told me to stop this as she was affraid for her students. The Zaidi's are lucky that she is the way she is. She could do damage if she wanted, but she is not and I will never undstand why? She says she will only fight if they take her to court. If it comes to that I will be the first to call every newspaper in the city to be there, then we will see how many people come out that have been wronged by these people. They better hope it never comes to that.

Juli-Ann I will stay out of it, but I will be there if they do that to you. And I will not take no for an answer.

I asked her to write something to all of you. She won't so I will.

JC, Kamran, and hassain if you are reading, you know what she did for all of you and how hard she worked. I did because I was there, always maybe in the background but I knew what you were all sucking out of her. Now you can say these horrible things about her. You are not playing fair. none of you.