Slay Model Management, the pioneering trans-exclusive modeling agency headquartered in Los Angeles, has expanded its reach into Asia with the launch of Slay Models Asia based in Manila.
The agency’s founder and director, Cece Asuncion, has appointed Niccolo Cosme and Ben Bernabe as co-directors of Slay Models Asia. They will manage the agency’s operations in the Philippines and the wider Asian region.
Slay Models Asia has hit the ground running with the ‘Slay Model Search Asia’ competition, which will crown a winner from 24 transgender women from across Asia tomorrow (April 27). In fact, the winner will earn a contract with the world’s only trans-exclusive modeling agency.
During the preliminary competition of the model hunt held at the Revel at the Palace, last Saturday. The hopefuls wore two-piece sets and gowns designed by Nat Manilag. Notably, the designer is known for his elegant designs
Slay Model Management has been at the forefront of creating visibility and opportunities for transgender models since its launch in 2016. Furthermore, with its expansion into Asia, the agency is breaking new ground in promoting trans inclusion in the fashion industry
The launch of Slay Models Asia and the Slay Model Search Asia competition represent significant steps in the ongoing push for greater diversity and representation in modeling.
24 Trans Women Introduces Diversity
A diverse group of 24 trans women is representing their countries in a groundbreaking model search, promoting inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry. The participants include Drian Bautista, Elle Carbonilla, Louell Celis, KC Cusi, Tracey de la Cruz, Abby Ecalnir, Mykee Garcia, Vivi Hedendahl, AJ Jaluage, Nella Johnson, Vi Macario, Mitch Ochosa, and Lauren Sanz from the Philippines.
Additionally, Sauce Chulalakkul, Nana Jantarat, B Kanapat, Tangelina Likitwatnannon, and Risa Purisa from Thailand; Meera Singhania-Rehani, Neerja Punia, and Sandra Nandeibam from India.
Lastly, Lily Othman from Malaysia; Vheny Aggreny from Indonesia; and Fellini Rose from Vietnam are also participating in the competition.
The participation of these inspiring women in the model search marks a significant step forward in promoting inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry.
Cece Asuncion’s Journey and Success
Starting from his lifelong advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights, particularly trans visibility, Slay Model Management founder Cece Asuncion has achieved great success.
In 2014, he directed the documentary, “What’s The T?”, which explored the lives of five trans women in the US, allowing him to understand their aspirations and challenges. Asuncion used these lessons when he established Slay Model Management in 2016.
In the beginning, there were no opportunities for trans models, and a lot of education and inter-community discourse was necessary. However, Slay Model Management’s story is one of resilience, success, and the importance of vigilance.
Asuncion shared that their work has resulted in opportunities for trans models with global fashion, beauty, and media brands such as Vogue Paris, Vogue Scandinavia, Elle France, Macy’s, Uber, and Tinder.
Catch the Live Stream of the Slay Model Search Finale on iWantTFC and ABS-CBN Entertainment’s YouTube Channel on Thursday, April 27, at 8 p.m.
For more information about Slay Model Management and Slay Models Asia, visit the Slay Model Management website at slaymodels.com, the Slay Models Instagram account at
instagram.com/slaymodelsla (@slaymodelsla), and the Slay Models Facebook page, facebook.com/slaymodels (Slay Model Management).
