A decade of transformation with The Lions: innovation and sustainability in fashion

Image Courtesy The Lions

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Innovation and sustainability are increasingly becoming cornerstones of the industry’s future. As the industry evolves, it’s clear that the traditional rules are being rewritten by forward-thinking brands and talent agencies that understand the value of diversity, inclusion, and environmental consciousness.

This shift has fostered a more inclusive and responsible future for fashion, where innovation is not only about aesthetics but also about impact and empowerment. 

One organization paradigmatic of this progressive mindset is The Lions Management, which recently celebrated a decade of setting new standards in talent management.

Founded with the mission of empowering models and giving them a voice in an industry historically focused on appearance, The Lions has become a vanguard of change.

Over the past 10 years, the agency has helped redefine the concept of a “fashion model,” moving beyond conventional beauty standards to embrace individuality and uniqueness. 

Breaking boundaries and embracing innovation

From the outset, The Lions recognized the growing potential of technology and social media to revolutionize personal branding in the fashion world. Long before other agencies caught on, they were ahead of the curve in utilizing these tools to empower their talent, helping them craft personal narratives that resonate with audiences far beyond the runway. This vision positioned The Lions at the forefront of a changing industry, where models now have the agency to shape their own careers and trajectories.

Noteworthy collaborations, such as their work with DHL and NFTs with Valentina Sampaio for charity, underscore The Lions’ commitment to innovation. These projects, along with many others, showcase the agency’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new opportunities for their talent, setting the standard for what modern talent management can achieve.

A decade of defining moments

The Lions’ journey over the last decade has been punctuated by remarkable achievements. The agency was instrumental in launching the career of Valentina Sampaio, who became the first transgender model to appear in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Similarly, Irina Shayk, another star talent, rose from her Sports Illustrated roots to become one of the fashion world’s most recognizable icons. Models like Slick Woods, whose rise from homelessness to high fashion is a testament to perseverance, exemplify The Lions’ ability to elevate talent from diverse backgrounds.

Beyond traditional modeling, the agency has also supported entrepreneurial ventures from its talent, such as Kate Upton’s successful launch of Vosa, a ready-to-drink vodka cocktail brand, and Cindy Kimberly’s fashion line, LOBA by Cindy Kimberly. Each success story highlights the agency’s bespoke management approach, tailoring opportunities to the individual strengths and aspirations of their talent.

Sustainability at the core

The Lions have not only been innovators but also champions of sustainability, using their platform to support various environmental causes. A notable example is their work in partnership with World Oceans Day, where they have raised awareness about the fashion industry’s environmental impact. This commitment reflects a broader shift in the industry, as more brands and agencies align their goals with responsible practices that prioritize both people and the planet.

The Lions and the future

Looking ahead, The Lions continues to set ambitious goals for the next decade, with plans to expand their role in brand consultancy, the creator economy, and sustainable fashion practices. Their track record of success over the past ten years suggests they will remain at the forefront of this movement, constantly challenging the status quo and reshaping the future of talent management.