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Precocious five-year-old launching ‘bling bling’ to support Christmas Fund

By Don Fennell

Published 4:11 PST, Wed November 20, 2019

Last Updated: 2:13 PDT, Wed May 12, 2021

Estella Celeste Banez is only five-years-old but already a visionary.

Focused on doing more to help more families in need, the budding entrepreneur recently asked her mom if she could have a jewelry party with a fashion show to sell her “bling bling” and help support the Richmond Christmas Fund. She and her mom, local children’s book author Kaye Banez, then set about recruiting models from her group of friends for two launch parties and fashion shows—Dec. 7 and 14, from 3 to 4:30 p.m., in room 340 of the Richmond Caring Place.

The fact it is called the “caring place” resonates with Estella, who cares deeply for families in need, especially the babies.

“I love make earrings and raising money for the community,” she says of her collection.

Even those with sensitive ears can wear her jewelry, which includes metal-free earrings. And if your ears are not pierced, comfortable slip-on earrings are available.

A year ago, shortly after the passing of both her beloved great grandparents, the precocious Kindergarten student began designing earrings to support local charities. Now, she’s launching her own line of jewelry—O.M.B.—Oh My Bling, Designs by Estella. The line also includes her own bracelets and hair accessories.

“The fashion show is going to be really, really awesome,” says Estella. “I’d like lots of people to come.”

The talented youngster also draws inspiration from her big brother Lazarus, of whom she’s enormously proud.

Like Lazarus, who makes greeting cards and is a proficient piano player, Estella likes to sing. Among her favourites are Raffi’s Five Little Pumpkins and Bing Crosby’s timeless holiday classic Jingle Bells.

She and Lazarus recently presented a painting for an event to celebrate multiculturalism and good deeds that people do for the community. And she sang the national anthem in front of hundreds of people to kick off the event. To help maximize the amount she hopes to raise for the Richmond Christmas Fund at her jewelry launches and fashion shows, Estella will generously donate one of her paintings for a silent auction. She will also entertain guests by singing a special song for them.

Fiercely caring and protective of Lazarus, Estella and her family actively advocate for him and other children with diverse needs. She also proudly shares hugs with her big brother, further demonstrating the love she radiates.

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