They are life-affirming events, which have already raised £570,000 to help fund cancer research in the north east of Scotland.
And today, Friends of Anchor is launching its search for models to take part in the 2018 Courage on the Catwalk and Brave shows at the Beach Ballroom in May.
The charity has been instrumental in boosting the spirits of more than 120 women, who have battled cancer, since CotC’s inception in 2013.
Some of whose who have enjoyed appearing on the catwalk have subsequently succumbed to their illness, but those who have participated talk about the transformational impact it has made on their lives.
Brave – which started last year to allow men the same opportunity to step into the spotlight – last year saw the first group strut their stuff on the runway in front of a packed audience.
Now with the backing of headline sponsors -Total E&P UK for Courage and James Jamieson Construction for Brave – the event organisers are looking for 24 men and 24 women to participate on the red carpet from May 11 to 13.
Sarah-Jane Hogg, Anchor’s PR and fundraising manger, said yesterday: “I can’t emphasise enough that we are not looking for confident, catwalk-ready men and women.
“This show is about everyday people who have faced a cancer diagnosis: a dad or mum, son or daughter, a work colleague, a friend or a neighbour.
“They probably won’t think of themselves as courageous, good looking or worthy, but, in the eyes of their loved ones, they’re a hero and they deserve to be celebrated.”
Every year, the model line-ups have included a diverse group of individuals from all walks of life, whose ages have ranged from 17 to 81.
The people chosen for each event also represent various cancer types, including breast, prostate, colon, leukaemia and renal, who are all at different stages in their fight with the illness.
Friends of Anchor chairman Jim Milne is a passionate supporter of the initiative, but appreciates it doesn’t happen without the participation of many different groups.
He added: “The Courage on the Catwalk and Brave events are so much more than a fashion show; they allow us to recognise real people from our region, sharing their stories to inspire and instil hope across the north east.
“I am delighted to have our title sponsors on board once again. It is thanks to them we can put on a big show production, as well as cover so many of the other significant costs.
“That way, we can celebrate and assure all those supporting the event weekend that the fundraising really will go direct to the cause and make a real impact on north-east cancer and haematology care.”
The sponsors are conscious of how CotC and Brave have captured the public’s imagination.
Sandra McLenna, corporate social responsibility leader at Total E&P UK, said: “Courage on the Catwalk provides a memorable and unique experience for the 24 inspirational women taking part.
“But in addition the event significantly raises the profile of FoA throughout the north east, Orkney and Shetland.”
Gemma Cameron, representing James Jamieson Construction, added: “We’re honoured to play our part in what is such a special event.
“The sheer strength, bravery and determination shown by all of the 24 models who stepped onto the runway last year, was inspiring, and I have no doubt this year will prove to be just as special.”
The men will be on show on Friday, May 11, and the women on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 May at the Beach Ballroom in what was a sell-out success last year.
To apply to be in this spring’s model line-up for CotC and Brave, or to nominate a friend or family member, contact the Friends of ANCHOR fundraising team on 01224 859170 or email foa@balmoral.co.uk
Model applications will close on Feb 23.