Close up with Tamara Vanderperren

Close up with Tamara Vanderperren

Can you tell us about your journey from model to entrepreneur? What inspired you to start your own modeling agency?

"My journey started as a model, which gave me firsthand experience of the highs and lows of the fashion industry. I loved the creativity, but I also saw the lack of support and guidance for models. I wanted to create an agency that not only represents talent but nurtures it—an agency that values long-term careers over short-term trends. My husband and I saw an opportunity to build something different, something more personal, where models are seen as individuals, not just faces in a portfolio.”

How has your experience as a former model influenced the way you run your agency, and how has it shaped your approach?

"It gave me a deep understanding of what models go through—the pressure, the uncertainty, and the importance of having real guidance. I know what it feels like to walk into a casting and feel like just another face in the room. That’s why I focus on creating a supportive environment, where models feel valued, protected, and empowered to make smart career choices. I also understand the power of a good agency. The right representation can make all the difference in a model’s career."

How has your experience in the fashion world changed your perspective on sustainability and ethics in the industry?

"Being inside the industry opened my eyes to its contradictions. On one hand, fashion is about beauty and artistry; on the other, it’s one of the most polluting industries in the world. I’ve seen the pressure on young models, the unrealistic expectations, and the overproduction of clothing. It made me rethink the kind of industry I want to be part of. Now, I believe we have a responsibility to advocate for a slower, more ethical approach—whether it’s through the brands we work with, the messaging we support, or the way we guide our models."


As the owner of a leading model agency, what do you think are the most important aspects of sustainability in the fashion industry?

"Sustainability isn’t just about materials—it’s about mindset. Ethical working conditions, fair wages, responsible production, and reducing waste are all essential. But for real change, we need a shift in how fashion is consumed and marketed. We need to move away from fast cycles and back to craftsmanship. Sustainability should not be a niche—it should be the foundation of the industry."


What has it been like evolving as a woman in fashion, and how has this influenced your perspective on beauty and confidence?

"The fashion world is both empowering and challenging for women. On one side, it celebrates female beauty and creativity; on the other, it often dictates unrealistic standards. Over time, I’ve learned that true confidence doesn’t come from fitting into an industry mold but from owning your uniqueness. As an agency owner, I want to help models develop that confidence, to see beauty beyond size, age, or trends, and to help redefine the standards that have shaped the industry for too long."

Which inspiring figures or role models do you look up to in the fashion industry, and why?

"I admire people who challenge the industry to be better—designers like Stella McCartney, who made sustainability a priority long before it became a trend. I also respect leaders who use their influence to push for diversity and inclusion. In modeling, I think about icons like Christy Turlington, who transitioned from supermodel to activist. It’s inspiring to see people use their platform for something bigger than fashion."

How do you see the fashion industry's future in terms of inclusivity and women’s empowerment, and what role does your agency play in that?

"The future of fashion must be more inclusive—not just in terms of representation but in how power is distributed. Women should have more seats at the table, from creative directors to CEOs. Our agency is committed to representing diverse talent, not just in appearance but in perspective. We want to empower models to use their voices, shape their careers, and be seen as more than just faces. True inclusivity is about creating a space where everyone—regardless of background, size, or gender—feels they belong.”

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