Farah Models is turning the lens on its own story as it celebrates eight years in the business. Founded by model and CEO Farah Ramos in 2017, the talent management and modeling agency is setting its sights on bigger projects for its roster of talents.
Farah, who has carried on a family legacy of talent management that has shaped Philippine entertainment for decades, brings her own stamp to the business. Her aunt, the late Ethel Ramos, handled stars including Aga Muhlach, Angel Locsin, Claudine Barretto, and Ina Raymundo. Her mother, Chit Ramos, guided the careers of Maja Salvador, Niño Muhlach, and Matt Ranillo III.
While raised in showbiz circles, Farah chose to carve her own path. She began as a professional model before launching her first agency in 2013, eventually establishing Farah Models. Today, the company represents 26 models with both local and international appeal.
Speaking with Manila Standard Life, Farah said her models represent “the different faces of Asia.”
“I’m speaking only for Farah Models’ experience, in recent years, most clients look for talents and models who are predominantly Asian looking. Most brands wanted that look not only because it’s a trend but because in this region, those are the looks that are very relevant to the public and audiences,” she said.
The anniversary event in Bonifacio Global City doubled as both a showcase and a gallery. Life-sized photographs of Farah’s top models lined the venue, offering a glimpse of the agency’s growing roster.
Among those introduced were Ronto Katsura, Laziz Rustamov, Riona Johnston, Venus Perol, Jane Chantal Sy, Kaela Alcantara, Su Jin Kim, and Vienne Shirin.
Katsura, who rose to fame on GMA’s “Foreignoy,” booked major campaigns in under a year with the agency. His striking features and versatility make him a standout as Asian representation grows on global runways.
Rustamov, a former Pinoy Big Brother housemate from Uzbekistan, has built a career in Manila with billboards, commercials, and roles in Batang Quiapo, Tadhana: Fake Love, Beauty Empire, and The Iron Heart. A trained chef, he is also eyeing lead roles.
Johnston, an Irish-Filipina and one of Farah Models’ first recruits, has grown from shy newcomer to runway regular. She has walked for Mark Bumgarner and landed a magazine cover, marking eight years with the agency.
Perol, named one of Mega magazine’s “50 Models of the Moment,” is recognized for her individuality. With American-Filipina heritage and bold features, she has become a face of inclusivity.
Sy, also cited by Mega, is praised for her professionalism and grace. With Chinese-Filipina roots, she is among the agency’s most rebooked models and is setting her sights on international runways.
Alcantara, with her classic Filipina beauty, is preparing to enter pageantry. Her poise and eloquence have made her a contender for future crowns.
Kim balances modeling with her work as a TV reporter for Bilyonaryo News Channel. She recently won the “Boses ng Talino” award from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies.
Shirin, a multi-hyphenate, has expanded into acting, hosting, and pageantry. She appeared in the film Beyond the Call of Duty and the series Love Before Sunrise, while continuing her advocacy for empowerment.
