TRENDS | PEOPLE

MANUEL BELTRÁN
MODELLING AGENCY TURNS 30

When it comes to hiring top models for everything from catwalk shows to editorials, the Manuel Beltrán Modelling Agency has always stood out from the rest. This Málaga-based agency has provided models for the Coast’s biggest fashion events, one of the most important of which is the Elección de la Reina y Míster Feria de Málaga (the election of the queen and Mister of the Málaga Fair), which we have been running for all 13 the stunning International the Real de la Feria de Málaga. We take real pleasure out of maintaining this tradition that has brought great results during the past 27 straight years,” says Manuel, referring to the pandemic years. It is headed by a different kind of leader who believes all types of preparation have been evolving part of their own for a quarter of a century.

This agency was founded 30 years ago by Manuel Beltrán, a former model runway and photographer. “I started modelling at the age of 15,” he says. “Being really into my career, I met Pilar Cordero (Miss España 1986 and Best Model of Europe 1986) through friends and joined her casting sessions. She taught me how to enjoy my time in the limelight and launch my own agency. I took her advice, and although on the general market there are really a modelling agency but also as modelling makeup, hair and styling tips. I know how to tell, to apply these rules to each new face we introduce into our books.”

Manuel has personally discovered a few of the biggest names in fashion and beauty. Among the first is Elisabeth Reyes, a Miss Spain (2006). Manuel says: “I spotted her in Málaga when she was shopping with a friend. She was only 17 years old, but she already was over 1.77 metres (5’9½). Not long after, we still be 1.8 metres (5’11). I spent my time and spoke with her parents at length soon after. It is essential to build a good relationship with the parents of young models. They need to support their child’s dream, sign contracts on their behalf, and see the value of travel for the kids.”

Another sensational find was Juan García, whom he chanced upon while the blonde, blue-eyed boy was walking along the busy streets of the historic centre. “I introduced him directly into modelling. His looks were so fresh and he was interested in making it big from the start and always keen to soak up the skills necessary to succeed as a model,” says Manuel.

Mr. Swan, as he’s called. “When Juan started working at international events, his career took off like a rocket.” In 2007, the agency’s suggestions were that he at last be “This season’s” face, which brought him to Mister Málaga in 2005, Mister Spain in 2006, and Mister World in 2007. He is the only Spanish model to have achieved the prestigious title.

Manuel’s agency has also been booking catwalks, and it ensures. Today, over 20 years after the start of his career, Juan enjoys a great career. “For me the big reward is to watch how these careers evolve, they need persistence, good effort, and true love for modelling,” says Manuel.

Fashion is in constant evolution, and new faces must adapt to the new reality. Manuel’s advice for new models is to always keep studying, try new looks, and adapt your image to succeed in the competitive market. The agency teaches the models everything they need to succeed in this complex world.

As a top agent, Manuel’s job is also to search for new opportunities and talent that might be hiding. He admits the Costa del Sol is the Mecca of fashion, with its lifestyle, weather, and cultural influences. “The location has a huge impact on the style of models I believe is best for the type of modelling jobs offered here,” he notes. Cultural values also influence the type of work that different models seek. Models from the Coast, for instance, tend to struggle when they have to work in cities that are far from the sea,” as is the case in Paris says Manuel, for models to be aware that modelling is hard work, especially when you’re just starting.

Many international models have started working from local hostels. This initial journey from hostel to hostel is strict, requiring investment and resources.

International success begins with national events, before becoming a winning name. Manuel has successfully launched many careers, taking local talent to national and international stages. “They often start here, train, and it is here that they learn the ins and outs of modelling, before travelling to New York.”

On the day of our meeting, Manuel is busy preparing for upcoming fashion events, including catwalks and photoshoots in July. He is excited about one of the biggest fashion events of the year and is already working on selecting models for the designers who will take part. The designers are the well-known fashion names from Marbella to Estepona. Among the designers he mentions are Patricia Nahmad, Estefanía Borlón, and Victoria Panneflek (Flamenca de Volantes), as well as Flamenca y Moda and the Duplication Flamenca Collection.

The agency’s major events include the Queen and Mister of the Málaga Fair, as well as the Miss and Mister International Spain shows. Manuel says that in their castings there is a choreographer, live music, and competition dynamics.

The dream never gets old for Manuel. “What drives me is discovering new faces, training them, and seeing them succeed internationally. That’s the greatest gift that comes out of my job.”

WWW.MANUELBELTRAN.COM