Let’s talk Slay!

Slay Model Management, the world’s first Transgender exclusive model agency, has announced it will host its first ever Model Search on February 15, 2020 at One Culver in Los Angeles. “We are looking for star quality,” says Cecilio Asuncion, the founder and director of Slay Model Management. “It takes more than beauty to be a top model. It takes determination, a healthy outlook, and a visceral understanding that she is a model first, and a Trans woman second.”

Slay Model Management models have appeared in campaigns for Eva Mendes for NY and Co., Nikita Dragun cosmetics, Katy Perry Fragrance: Indi, Elle Magazine, Truvada and on TV in FX’s Pose, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Project Runway and Netflix’s upcoming show, Next in Fashion. Even the agency has gained notoriety. The Oxygen-TV series, Strut, executive produced by Whoopi Goldberg, was built around the agency and showcased the challenges its models faced in the fashion industry, fighting to overcome gender and beauty stereotypes.

Asuncion is careful to clarify: “Slay is not about selling Transness. We are selling a young woman’s capability to represent a brand or a designer. Sure, it’s great to be booked during June for Pride month, but what we want is sustainability and opportunities year-round.”

He says unique opportunities are available to transgender models today. “Fashion is changing. Companies understand the need for representation, diversity and inclusion.” At some point in the near future, he contends that models will be hired for their beauty and not, specifically, because they are Trans. “One of the biggest misconceptions is that a Trans model has to be an activist. Frankly, I don’t believe they do. By polishing their craft and representing themselves as the best in the business, they will help future generations.”

To enter the model search, hopefuls are encouraged to visit the Slay Model Management website (www.slaymodels.com) and click on the “Get Scouted” tab. However, Natalie Chang, the head of new faces at Slay Model Management cautions all women prepare themselves mentally as they will be competing against thousands of other young women for only three spots.

Twenty-five finalists will be selected from all entries received through the website. They will be invited to compete in the February 15, 2020 finale at One Culver in Los Angeles, hosted by supermodel and Slay Model Management talent, Arisce Wanzer and International Celebrity DJ and Slay Model Management talent Lina Bradford.

The Slay Model Management Model Search takes place Saturday, February 15, 2020 at One Culver in Los Angeles. For more information, visit Slaymodels.com