Yaya - America's Next Top Model finalist      

     NEW YORK, NY - America's Next Top Model finalist, Yaya, will be making her big screen debut in early 2006. She landed a leading role in the upcoming dance-drama entitled Take the Lead, starring opposite Antonio Banderas.
     You may remember Yaya as the outspoken Brown University graduate who was the runner-up on season 3 of America's Next Top Model. Being a top contender in the hit TV show landed her enough of a buzz that she was immediately signed to the prestigious modeling agency, Ford Models. Her flawless photographs and talent on the runway were undeniable. A rare combination of beauty and brains, Yaya is a multi-faceted individual, with an incredible ability to excel at anything she chooses to do. Yaya is not simply a supermodel. Thus, it should be no surprise that well be seeing Yaya on the big screen very soon.
   Yaya will play the role of a dance student. The film is inspired by the true story of international ballroom dancer Pierre Dulane. Banderas plays the role of a former professional dancer (Dulane) who volunteers to give dance lessons to New York public school students. The story unfolds when his ballroom methods clash with the students hip hop style, but teacher and students later team up to create a new style of dance. Yaya's prominent role as a dancer allows her to showcase her background as a dancer.
     Currently being filmed in Toronto, the picture will be directed by Liz Friedlander and released by New Line Cinema in early 2006.