MBR_Issue_28 -February 2017

Malta Business Review
INTERVIEW OF THE MONTH
INTERVIEW OF THE MONTH
Malta Business Review
MULTICULTURALISM,
TOLERANCE
RESPECT
By George Carol
Celebrating 30 years of
constant success and deeprooted
engagement, Sue
Rossi believes that personal
experiences, values and
reasoning brought her to
realise that being positive
is in fact the most crucial
ingredient of all.
&
MBR: What is it that makes Modelle
International so special?
SR: Modelle International has been
evolving ever since its formation thirty
years ago. Its role in fashion has
contributed to paving the way for career
start ups for those willing to commence an
exciting venture whether as TV presenters
or promoters of modelling schools in
Malta. There were others who experienced
international activity with much
satisfaction. Personally I feel honoured to
have been in the forefront of the cultural
change so much in evidence in current
circumstances. There were challenges and
hurdles to be overcome but through sheer
determination and innovative tactics much
has been accomplished and achieved in
an effective and efficient manner. The
talent shows and the several events that
captured the market at the time may be a
distant past but their effects are felt today
in other ongoing events set by Modelle
International. The fashion enterprise
which is Modelle International has altered
attitudes and views with humility and
sheer hard work.
MBR: How important is it that your
model base mirrors the diversity of your
customer base?
SR: We live in a world of change and
excitement. Multiculturalism, tolerance
and respect toward others blend well
in our activities. Diversity of cultures,
genders and ideas combine in a healthy
style with much fervour and colour.
MBR: How important is it to build the
awareness that this is an innovative and
dynamic industry?
SR: Innovation and competition are basic
for a unique end product. The local events,
fashion shows and other promotions
are the result of a realisation of present
situations with a futuristic view. Fashion
is an expression not only of inner beauty
but of freedom from rigid and structured
connotations. I believe that Modelle was
courageous enough to come up with an
alternative social outlook.
MBR: Thirty years on- what excited
you about this opportunity and what
risks did you face; what was one of the
biggest things which was an eye opener
for you?
SR: Risks are part of the package. Any
venture and opportunity carry a hidden
known or unknown factor. Identifying
major risks and modifying a sensible
business model to counter any fault
lines was an imperative obligation
throughout. Being aware of the external
pitfalls made me realise that hedging
against consequential fallouts required
an impregnable presence consisting of a
strong inner circle where loyalty and trust
are valued elements. Keeping an open eye
at chances and possibilities is an obvious
must. This proves to be the driving force
that propels me to move on.
MBR: What has been the biggest change
(and challenge) of working in the
modelling industry after thirty years?
SR: Times change and the crucial aspect is to
keep abreast with the alternative scenario.
Taking a glance at occurrences and daily
happenings is essential to introducing a
new phase built on past achievements.
Educating through modelling may be an
undernoted contribution to social benefit
but the appreciation of the common good
long term objective may have played an
implied catalyst to professionalise the
sector.
Innovation and competition are
basic for a unique end product.
Obtaining licences to the like of Miss
World explains the continuous awareness
I referred to earlier on.
MBR: How has social media changed
models’ job descriptions?
SR: Social media reflects thoughts and
attitudes shared in groups and family
structures. Job descriptions are not only
the result of writings and expressions but
of needs shared by customers and clients.
Requirements are more demanding and
job descriptions mirror the standards
of behaviour and ethical beliefs held by
Modelle International. Customers are
always at the heart of what Modelle does
and my role is to do the right thing by
setting the proper tone. Communication
is the raison d` etre of the media and our
belief and convictions are channelled to
the various strata of society through the
necessary medium. Technology brought
facebook and face book gave rise to a
global networking of emotion and identity
awareness. Partaking to it contributes to
success and other expectations which
mould immediate plans for the foreseeable
future.
MBR: What have you learnt about being
a good leader?
SR: Learning is an endless process and
fundamental for setting the pace. Rather
than being a good leader one has to strike
a deal at being effective and conscious of
others. Feminist views such as tolerance,
empathy and humility feature in moulding
the mythical perfect leader. However in
reality the attainment that such figures
are book bound gives me the energy to
be attentive and open minded. Actually
I was a model myself and my experience
with the modelling agency Model Noveau
in Nottingham made me note that their
success was a result of team work and
vision, both essential to any promoter.
MBR: What is a common misconception
people have about what you do?
SR: Judging others behind their back
is a casual act at striving to undermine
reputation. Such a hard earned intangible
asset is always the target of malicious
attempts by feeble minded under
performers to subdue achievers. Yes there
are at times amateur attempts at denting
name and gain but such risks are well
monitored and brushed aside.
MBR: What type of personality must a
model have? Do you consider this when
looking at a new model?
SR: Upcoming model must possess a
natural aspect about themselves. Artificial
modes are a façade that easily melts under
pressure. My sound advice is quite simple,
project who you are and refinement comes
in later.
MBR: How do you decide whether a
young candidate has potential?
SR: Those willing to move ahead are
all qualified. Promoters who consider
themselves better than others by shunning
them away from the industry are a liability.
Putting others down deliberately is a
conscious attempt at deriding humanity
from its core. I am a good listener
and a motivator for those who wish
wholeheartedly to realise their dream.
MBR: What would you say are the
current model trends and trends going
forward?
SR: Individual outlooks and personalised
touches with an artistic flare may be
sighted as prominent trends. It is essential
to consider these aspects to remain valid
and effective in an ongoing realisation
of a dream that prompted Modelle
International thirty years ago. MBR
All Rights Reserved / Copyright 2017
Contact details:
Modelle International – Sue Rossi
T: 21316304 – M: 99494817
E: sue@modelleinternational.com
W:www.modelleinternational.com
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