The post La Liga Filipina – Fashion Editorial appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Fashion Designer

Before he became known to the world as the designer to former Miss Universe Pia Wurzbach, as well as other Philippine beauty queens, Albert Andrada gained prominence in the UAE and the GCC region as a Royal Designer to the ruling Al Sharqi family of Fujairah.  Hired after his win as Designer of the Year at the Swarovski Bridal Show in Dubai in 2020, Albert led a design atelier and production team of 29 people, creating 50 couture pieces for the Sheikha of Fujairah and her three daughters on a monthly basis.  Quite a feat, but just the norm, in the opulent royal household.

Bandoix Flores

Fashion Designer

Called the “Klassista” fashion designer Bandoix Flores Nebria was a well-loved figure within the UAE fashion community where he is known for his elegant and classic creations, as well as his affinity for the color black.  A member of the fashion royalty in Dubai, Bandoix was the Creative Director of Warda Haute Couture, and his gowns were worn by the elite in the country and the region.  He also won praises for his collection under his very own label BFN at the Philippine Fashion Week in 2011.

Nina Naval-Niemczyk & Manette Mercado Mc-Even

Models

Filipina professional models have been walking on the most prestigious runways in Dubai since the late 2000s.  Two who pioneered Filipino representation on local catwalks were Nina Naval-Niemczyk and Manette McEven, who have been regular fixtures in the region’s definitive fashion event – Dubai Fashion Week until it transformed into Fashion Forward in 2013.  Nina has walked for couture houses Amato, Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, House of Yen, as well as acclaimed brands Moschino, Harvey Nichols, Splash. L’Oreal, Vikram Padnis, among many others, most of the time, the lone Filipino within the line-up of multi-cultural models.  Manette, on the other hand, has been part of the awaited seasonal shows of high street brand Splash and Iconic and has also modeled for other luxe brands like Mimosa and Harvey Nichols, among others.

Both well-respected award-winning supermodels back in the Philippines before they moved to Dubai, Nina, and Manette have, for a time, exemplified quintessential Filipina beauty and grace in the local fashion scene.

CADD For Kabayan

Community Champions

CADD for Kabayan is one of those community organizations in the UAE that has changed the lives of Filipinos through skills education. During their tenure in the community, they have trained over 7,000 individuals, which included TESDA NCII Certified passers in Structural Drafting, in turn facilitating the career growth for their students. Established in 2002, CADD for Kabayan is a non-profit organization that conducts technical training for OFWs and their dependents in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, providing ample knowledge to people who want to learn more in the fields of Engineering and Architecture and other related sectors. The organization was put up to give a chance for OFWs to compete in the world of Information Technology, according to Founder Engineer Orandantes Delizo.

OPPPS – Overseas Professional Pinoy Photographers Society

Community Champions

For years since its founding in 2003, the Overseas Pinoy Professional Photographers Society (OPPPS) has birthed hundreds of talented Filipino photographers in the UAE, many of them excelling in various fields of practice.  Established to share photography ideas and techniques to both amateurs and professionals in the field, the group, which originally was formed to foster the love for the art of photography, has equipped many budding artists to venture into the field as freelancers, giving some of them an alternative career option. The organization provided courses on Digital Photography, Digital Darkroom (Post Processing), Studio Portrait and Fashion Photography (Indoor and Outdoor), Going Places with Camera and OPPPS (Field Trips), Simplified Photo Journalism, Photo Essay and other Photography related topics. Part of the learning also includes slide shows, photo contests, member critiques, field trips, among others.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

The post Filipino Legacies in the Gulf – Fashion Designers, Models & Community Champions appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Commercial Model and Actor 

Dubai-based engineer, model, and actor Dexter Dalisay could very well be “the” handsome face of the Filipino community in the UAE.  He has starred in numerous commercial campaigns; the most recent ones include projects for Dubai Holdings, Etisalat, British Council UAE, Jashanmal, and Marhaba among others.

He was also involved in both in international and local indie films including Twisted Blues (Hollywood Film) slated for release in the last quarter of 2020; Love Check (Bollywood Film) which was officially selected for the Oasis Short Film Festival; Shabab Sheyab translated to On Borrowed Time (Arabic-Hollywood Film) which officially made its rounds in film festivals overseas; and of course, the much-revered Lamentasyon which was the first full-length film made by Filipinos in the UAE.

Passionate about pursuing his own dreams, Dexter encourages Filipinos to go follow their bliss while always being flexible and open to adapt.  “Everyone can become successful in their career, work, or family but not everyone is happy,” he says. “It is not all about money or other material things and sometimes we need to consider that we will only live once and we must live in a positive and happy way. Plus, we need to cope up and see all the possibilities that come with challenges. It may mold you or break you. Continuous learning is the key to progress. We need to live through the battles and risks of life.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

The post Dexter Dalisay – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Model

Quite a citizen of the world, Filipino-Dutch Dimitri Tolenaars, who was raised in Belgium, pays homage to his Filipino and Spanish roots through his modeling work in the Middle East. With his substantial commercial portfolio, Dimitri has walked runways and graced editorials with his distinct look gracing GQ Middle East and Vogue Man Arabia, as well as Illustrado Magazine.  He has also worked for the luxury brand Bottega Veneta.

Despite having a wide range of experience as a fashion model, Dimitri is still trying to figure out what he really wants to pursue in the long run. And while at it, Dimitri is putting his A game in whatever he does, be it modeling or any other endeavor he puts his interest in.

He believes that pushing his capabilities and testing his limits develops him into an even more versatile mindset, with attitude and confidence ready to adapt for the rapidly growing industry.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

The post Dimitri Tolenaars – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Model

Model Paul Kiefer, who is of Filipino, Slovak, German, French, Polish and Lithuanian blood represents the growing tribe of Filipinos of mixed heritage and with culturally ambiguous looks.  His handsome chiseled features and runway perfect stance have graced many billboards, magazines, campaigns and fashion shows in the UAE and Gulf, as well as around the world.

Lately, Paul has also stumbled upon another passion allowing him to further develop his creativity.  He now practices photography, working behind the lens and not in front.  What made him love photography was the ability to capture moments and tell a story behind it without having to say a word. He has recently done work for Esquire Magazine, one of his greatest feats in his early career, and has also landed various other projects.

Paul hopes to devote more time to photography in the long run, while still maintaining his career in the fashion industry which he first fell in love with first.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

The post Paul Kiefer – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Benedickte Gammelgaard

Model – Singer

Danish-Filipina Benedickte Gammelgaard has become widely known as a pro in the modeling industry, both locally and on the international front. Starting her career at 12, she has been a prominent face for various beauty and fashion brands, modeling for the likes of Huda Beauty, Make-Up Forevever, L’Oreal PH, as well as walking the runways for Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, MSFTS, American Eagle Outfitters while gracing the pages of publications like Harper’s Bazaar, ID Magazine, Preview PH, and Illustrado Magazine.

While modeling has been her bread and butter, Benedickte is also chasing a separate passion.  She recently ventured into music with her band Pop Suicide. Initially starting it just for fun, Pop Suicide released three singles in 2019. She has also pursued a solo career in singing and has performed in gigs in and outside Dubai.

Even when she has accomplished a lot at such a young age, Benedickte keeps her feet on the ground. She believes that Filipinos are capable and talented people who deserve respect and recognition wherever they are in.

Fara Manalo

Model

An ambassador for Filipina models in the region, Fara Manalo is renowned in the fashion runways of the UAE walking in its most prestigious runways for both local couture brands, as well as international luxury brands including Roberto Cavalli, Hermès and Bvlgari to name a few.  Raising the Philippine flag within the industry, she has also worked with Emirates Airlines, Moors&Saints, and has appeared in Vogue UK, The Bride Show in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as Esmod Fashion University and jewelry shoots.  Her first cover was in Illustrado Magazine.

“I am often asked about traveling to the Philippines and people are always interested in learning more about our culture. I am delighted when people show a genuine interest and hold such high regard for the Philippine people.”

She wants to prove that Filipinos can have a place in this demanding yet fulfilling industry. For her, talent and the willpower have always been rooted in the Filipino heart, but what should be improved are the self-esteem and the confidence needed to take one to higher ground.

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

The post Benedickte Gammelgaard & Fara Manalo – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Model – Entrepreneur 

Ann Llagas is a woman on a mission to add diversity to the local modeling scene as well as provide opportunities to fresh talents aspiring to walk the runway and be in front of the camera.

Since she started her company “Anna Model Management” in 2016, Anna has played a crucial role in contributing to the development of the region’s modeling industry and is now known for providing a platform for upcoming, ethnically diverse models for both runway and editorial purposes.  Anna’s models have graced various affairs, including the region’s definitive annual fashion event Fashion Forward, as well as publications and commercial projects.  2019 also marks the agency’s first exclusive international Filipino model, Carlo Lee’s initial foray into Fashion Forward.

To date, the model-entrepreneur continues to pour out her own style, as well as her own hopes and dreams into her initiatives. “My modeling agency is not just about business, but a legacy to,” she says. “It gives the opportunity to new and rising talents, so that together, we all journey towards success.”

Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf is Supported by: Kaya Skin Clinic,  Emirates Airline, and Unilever.

Special Thanks to Michael Cinco, Ezra Couture , Giordano, Darcey Flowers, IKON Solutions, Victors Freight, MPQ Tourism, Asia Gulf Companies –La Carne & Filfood, WOL Water

Get a copy of Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf Legacy Edition

Anna Llagas

Model, Entrepreneur

Going beyond her fame as a leading figure in the Filipino modeling community in the Middle East, Anna Llagas has taken a leap of faith in 2016 by opening her own modeling agency – ‘ANNA Model Management’.  With the keen intent of directing the public eye to undiscovered Pinoy talents in the region, her main objective above all else is to introduce a higher degree of cultural diversity to the region’s fashion industry.

Recently gracing the cover of STYLE VIETNAM, Anna’s love for modeling stems from her love for fashion.  Hence, it was exciting for her to transition into another facet of the industry: from modeling, to model management.

2016 has been a particularly trying year for Anna, as switching from a regular employee to the sole head of a business she now owns has had its highs and lows. However, in light of the many challenges she faces, Anna continues to strive in style, buoyed by the will to achieve her goals. Of what lays ahead for her and her business, Anna shares: “I want my modeling agency to succeed not only in this part of the world but also in Europe and Southeast Asia. I want to provide more work opportunities for my models, artists and talents.”

Photo by Alex Callueng; Photography Assistant – Bethoven Filomeno
Special thanks to – Giordano, Nikon, Liali Jewellery, Lulu, Mitsubishi and Western Union.

The post Anna Llagas – Illustrado 300 Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Paul Kiefer

Fashion Model

With the local world of advertising and fashion heavily dominated by Western and Arabic models, Paul Kiefer is one of those rare talents that represent the Filipino; and represent well he has.  Having graced countless buildings, billboards, runways, and magazines across the Emirates and the rest of the world, his is one of the most recognizable premium faces in the country.  Paul elaborates on identity and representation: “Never feel you are under someone or don’t have the power to achieve what others do. We are all people, and it’s not about where you are from or what you have, but how far you are willing to go to achieve what you want to achieve.”.

“So many new things happened this year. I’m always learning more and more about myself and the world we live in through my travels as a model and from new experiences.”.

Besides modeling, Paul has further expanded his career exploring a separate avenue in the industry – photography. Devoting more time behind the camera these days, Paul considers photography to be a profound passion he was just waiting to immerse himself in. Just recently, Esquire Magazine featured his work – a coup he considers to be one of his great achievements.

Dimitri Tolenaars

Fashion Model

A Dutch boy with both Filipino and Spanish blood, who was raised in Belgium, model Dimitri Tolenaars proves that today’s Filipinos are the picture of ethnic diversity. With an equally diverse portfolio, ranging from commercial campaigns to luxury fashion editorials for the likes of Michael Cinco, Dimitri recently graced the pages of the first editions of GQ Middle East (modeling for Bottega Veneta), and Vogue Man Arabia.

The world of fashion and modeling is ever-changing and rapidly evolving. For a young model like Dimitri, it is this very uncertainty that drives him to be the best version of himself. “Since I’m not one hundred percent sure about my plans, I hope to be the best I can be in whatever I decide to undertake. It all starts with yourself. Be confident. Looking up to other people is fine as long as you don’t look down on you. After that, it’s not just advancing as Filipino people, but as human beings in general.”

Benedickte Gammelgaard

Fashion Model

Danish-Filipina beauty, Benedickte Gammelgaard has been modeling since the age of twelve. Now twenty-four, her career in the industry has been blessed with both local and significant international gigs. Benedickte has modeled for several illustrious beauty brands – Huda Beauty, Makeup Forever, Loréal PH – she has graced the pages of publications from around the world – Harper’s Bazaar, ID Magazine, Preview PH, Illustrado Magazine – and has as well walked for Michael Cinco, Ezra Santos, MSFTS, American Eagle Outfitters, and more.

A multi-talented artist that specializes in graphic design, who also has a passion for music, one parallel challenge Benedickte has encountered on several fronts of her life concerns self-acceptance. She shares: “I think my main challenge, to this day, is believing I was never good enough. Something a lot of girls and boys struggle with, especially in this industry. There have been times where I have refused to sing on stage and refused jobs I thought I was incapable of doing. However, the sooner I accepted who I was, the sooner I could work, and the more I would be able to achieve.”

Benedickte finds inspiration in the values and culture of the Filipino people. “It’s almost difficult for me to give advice when I can look up to almost every Filipino I know. Their determination and perseverance in anything they do is admirable and is something I try to learn from always.”.

Fara Manalo

Fashion Model

Roberto Cavalli, Hermès, Bvlgari. These are just a few of the prominent luxury brands model Fara Manalo has walked for. She has also appeared in numerous commercial campaigns for brands like Emirates, Samsung, and Atlantis Hotel. With Illustrado serving as her first ever magazine cover, Fara to this day dons her culture and ethnicity with pride:  “To be amongst the few Filipino models here in Dubai, I am proud to wave the Philippine flag till the end.”

While modeling as a profession is notoriously considered to be quite demanding, Fara’s unbending optimism has helped her remain a cut above the rest: “My advice to Filipinos, or anyone for that matter, would be to sincerely believe in yourself and be confident when you are working to the best of your abilities. I feel that if everyone lived their lives genuinely and with passion, anything can be achieved.”

……………………….

Special thanks to our sponsors: Emirates Airline, Stars n Bars La Mer, Liali, Instax – Grandstores UAE, Dusit Thani Dubai, Gver – Your Friendly Marketplace for Sharing, Meeting Dancewear , MPQ, CMG, Filbrit, and our partners Rozen Antonio Photography,  Alex Callueng Photography, Jef Anog Photography, and Ethereal Photography.

Browse the digital issue of Illustrado 100 Most Influential Filipinos of the Gulf 2018

The post Models – Most Influential Filipinos in the Gulf 2018 appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Cycle after cycle, the Philippines has  never failed to deliver fierce competition in AsNTM; however we’ve always fallen short of bagging the title. This cycle is different because for the first time, our bet was able to come through and emerge on top! Filipina-German Maureen Wroblewitz competed alongside Vietnam’s bet Minh Tu Nguyen and Malaysia’s rep Shikin Gomez in the finale.

14 hopefuls from all across Asia, 13 episodes and 3 months of anxious uncertainty of who’s still gonna be in the running to become Asia’s Next Top Model. The road wasn’t easy for Maureen (and us fans too!) as she had her low moments in front of the panel and in her stay at the model house too. But our girl is one feisty beast and only took the criticisms thrown at her to become a better model.

Let’s have lookback at Maureen’s AsNTM Cycle 5 journey.

P.S

She is not just a pretty face.

EP.1

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSgcJluAHhq/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.2

https://www.instagram.com/p/BSyfFuAgURR/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.3

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTEeWp0gZRJ/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.4

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTWhmffAK_b/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.5

https://www.instagram.com/p/BTofjRWAcCg/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.6

https://www.instagram.com/p/BT6lBOZg5Xs/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.7

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUMlXGag9gD/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.8

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUeko_MATaB/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.9

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUwnmPKg2U_/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.10

A recap on AsNTM Cycle 5

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVSLGl-Afdc/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.11

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVUpP6Sg-KI/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.12

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVmwolCASG0/?taken-by=mauwrob

EP.13

https://www.instagram.com/p/BV4681fgQhK/?taken-by=mauwrob

You’ve made us all proud Maureen! #TaasNooFilipino

The post Maureen Wroblewitz Is Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 5 Winner appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.

Photographer:  Raen Badua

Wardrobe Stylist:  Slava Nemish

Make-Up Artist:  Eric Vosburg

Hairstylist:  Justin Arellano

Models: 

Alexander Dominguez – Red Model Management

Danica Magpantay – Ford Models

Francis Ariosa – Wilhelmina Models NYC

Paul Kiefer – Major Models

Stephanie Retuya – Wilhelmina Models NYC

La Liga Filipina

By Nicholo Jallores

 Meet the new breed of Filipino reformistas instigating a revolution in global fashion, transcending race barriers, and creating positive cultural change. 

You would be hard-pressed to think that models – of all the types of overseas Filipinos – would be at the forefront of revolutionizing the way Filipinos are represented in the global stage, but apparently, they are. They are in the thick of the Revolution, and they got there sans the bloodshed of a boxer, the theatrics of a performer, or the overly choreographed perfection of a beauty queen. Used to be that to earn any measure of renown as an international Filipino model you would have to fit a visual mold that bordered on racial caricature, but now, the new crop of Filipino models typify an arresting sort of cultural ambiguity. They blur the lines, as opposed to reinforcing them. It’s not about being a South East Asian / Pacific Islander wearing nice clothes and posing; it’s just about modelling, which is exactly as it should be.

Say hello to the league of extraordinary Filipinos in the world of Fashion.

ALEXANDER DOMINGUEZ – RED MODEL MANAGEMENT

How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

I did not always plan on being a model. After I graduated college I wanted to work in different fields to see what I truly enjoyed doing. After a couple of jobs I did not enjoy, a photographer from Maryland (Randolph Garret) reached out to me for a photo shoot. I sent out some photos to at least 30 agencies around the world. Finally RED models NY contacted me and gave me the opportunity to enter the fashion industry.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

I am proud to have worked with a lot of brands so far. It’s hard to say which one is my favorite.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC.

I started my modeling career in 2014. I was living in Prince George’s county Maryland at the time and was working at the bank. I wasn’t happy with how my life was going so I decided to take a chance and apply to modeling agencies all over the world. One day RED models contacted me offering a contract. I eventually quit my job and moved to NY. Looking back on it I would say it was a mix of luck and determination that lead me to start a modeling career.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

The best thing about being an international model is experiencing and sharing culture. I believe this industry connects people. I don’t see any reason how being an international model is a bad thing. International models bring diversity in the fashion industry.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

I have never found it a hindrance being Filipino. All my life I’ve been proud of my culture and people. It has been an asset by providing me humility in this industry.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Do what makes you happy and you can’t win if you don’t play.

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be?

It is hard for me to imagine life not being a model. All my prior occupations were good for me at the time, but I’ve always ended up disliking it except modeling.

DANICA MAGPANTAY – FORD MODELS

 How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

I always wanted to model. I just didn’t think it would happen as fast as it did. I got started when I joined the local Ford Supermodel of The World contest in Philippines.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

Last year’s summer campaign for Aeropostale. It has been one of my dreams since I started modeling to appear on one of the flashy Times Square ads and through that campaign it came true.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC.

After I won the contest in the Philippines, I was able to go on and compete on the international level and was fortunate enough to win here in New York as well. A week after that I was going to castings for the upcoming fashion week.

With anything you do, you really must have a sound mind and body. I have experienced highs and lows in this career but I am just so blessed that I am surrounded by loving and empowering people who always believe in me. Also, I have God whom I draw my strength and courage from every day.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

Diversity in the market. Being able to travel from one city to another, you do realize what the “modeling market” is in each city. Being in New York, there is equal opportunity for everyone to get booked because there are all kinds of different looks that every client is looking for.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

Definitely not a hindrance, like I said, there is a diversity of models and you just have to see which ones work for your look – no matter what your race is.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Do it. Keep learning about the tricks of the trade and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. And most importantly, always make sure you enjoy doing it!

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be?

I’d either be a merchandiser for my own clothing/accessories store or be a business woman and market and develop products from our family’s organic farm.

FRANCIS ARIOSA – WILHELMINA MODELS NYC

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

It’s the shoot I did for Michael Cinco. He was the first designer who actually helped me and guided me with modeling, so that campaign means a lot to me.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC. 

Well, it has been a ride with ups and downs, but I just put all my trust in God and believed in my dreams and I know things will happen.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

Being an international model will expose you to the good and bad of modeling, but it will help you grow, be a better person and have a thicker skin.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

The only hindrance of being a Filipino is to get Visas every time you travel to places like Europe. I believe loving yourself for who you are, whether you’re a Filipino or not is going to be your best asset in modeling, because being confident with yourself will take you places.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

-Well, first, believe in yourself. Pray hard. Trust in God and be strong. You will face a lot of hindrances but despite those challenges, it will just make you stronger. Take one step at a time.

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? 

A married man with 5 kids. Hahaha! I would have my own bakery in Pagadian City and I would be helping out my dad with our farm. I would be anywhere where my family is.

PAUL KIEFER – MAJOR MODELS

 How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

I was approached for the first time at a mall during my high school years at Slovakia. I did not decide to give it a try till many years later and many more scout approaches. One of the reasons it took me so long to start was, I never really dreamt of becoming a model and was actually not very interested in it, compared to what I had going on in my life at that time.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

It’s a hard one to answer. The most significant to me was for Iconic shoot I did in Dubai. The reason it was so special to me is that it’s not every day you get to see yourself with a girlfriend on building size billboards! Now the most fun campaign shoot experience, I have to say, would be Adidas shot near San Francisco. We went from sunny surf beach side to snowmobiling in the blizzard in snowy mountains all in the same day of shooting.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC.

Not much of a journey to be honest. NYC was my first trip for modeling, and I signed into modeling for the first time in NYC after being flown in. It is where my modeling career first officially started with my management in NYC. Since then I just fly back and forth for work.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

Traveling by far is the best. I honestly would not be doing modeling if I could not continue to travel. Now the worst part would have to be the vain side of the industry. I have never been a guy to care too much about how I appeared till I stepped into the modeling world. Fashion and styling my hair was never my thing. But it’s something you just have to eventually get used to.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

I would say neutral. I never really associated my race with my success or failures. Many people use race as an excuse in life but I say pay it no mind and just do your best. If you failed, then you either went about it wrong or it was just not for you. Modeling is not for everyone. If you are what they are looking for at that moment then that’s all you need. Be in the right place, at the right time, with the right people.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Finish school and get ready for 100 no’s before your first yes. Modeling is not all it’s played out to be. We are just normal people.

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be?

Actor or entrepreneur. I had a very promising situation in the acting industry laid out on the table for me in Los Angeles before modeling. But I guess I just did not want it that much at that time because I gave it all up to get out of LA in pursuit of something else. If not acting then possibly starting a business. I was in school also at that time for economics before I started modeling.

STEPHANIE RETUYA – WILHELMINA MODELS NYC

How did you become a model? Did you always want to be one?

At first, I didn’t aspire to be a model until I tried my first runway show and that’s when I got hooked. It feels amazing to be up there- the adrenaline, walking knowing you are wearing a vision of the designer.

Most significant campaigns so far. Which one are you most proud of and why?

SM Aura Philippines, a Property campaign in Singapore and the Mac Indulge advertorial in Hongkong, I am very proud of these works because of the people I met when I did the job and the outcome of the work itself.

Tell us about your journey to the modelling world in NYC.

I met my mother agency when I worked with Mannequin in Singapore, after AsNTM (Asia’s Next Top Model) ended, they helped me travel to Asia first to build my book before I got here in NYC.

What’s the best thing about being an international model? What’s the worst thing about it?

The best thing is the travel, the new people, being exposed to different wonderful culture and the worst things are missing home and missing your family. It’s not all glitz and glamour it can be very lonely too.

On being Filipino – is being Filipino a hindrance or an asset to a model like you?

It depends on where you are, I have been discriminated for my race but NYC it has been an asset.

What advice can you give to Filipinos aspiring to model internationally?

Don’t give up and work for it!

If you weren’t a model today, what would you be? Explain why?

A literary writer, that’s what I went to school for and I love to read too, but nowadays I am very interested with cooking and food.

The post Filipino Models: La Liga Filipina appeared first on Illustrado Magazine - Filipino Abroad.