Through Her Bold Move, Ella Eiveren is a Beacon of Hope for Aspiring Creatives

More than just a model, she is redefining Filipino creativity and talent on the global stage

Imagine taking a leap of faith with a steady job as a chemical engineer for the fashion industry. That’s what Filipina model, Ella Eiveren, did. Going forward into the unknown turned into an amazing international career, pushing the boundaries and making a space for Filipinos in the global stage. 

Her journey as a model isn’t just about clothes, the glam life, or anything in between; it’s about being tough, learning, and the challenges she faced. From winning a local contest to starting her own agency, empowering Filipinos like Sophia Agualdo who first signed a contract with her, and she’s bringing filipino creativity at the global stage. And with her story, it is a proof that unexpected things, can lead to the most incredible places to be. 

The Genesis 

Her modeling adventure wasn't planned. "It all kicked off right after I finished my chemical engineering degree," she says, realizing her heart wasn't in it. A friend suggested a modeling competition in Manila, and that changed everything.

"I was still figuring things out, so I thought, why not? Nothing to lose." Winning that contest landed her a contract, and she went all in. "The modeling jobs started coming in, so I decided to commit." It wasn't the original plan, but she embraced it.

"I feel like modeling chose me. It wasn't something I dreamed of. It just happened." She saw it as a new way to be creative and decided to give it her best shot. "I told myself I had to put everything into it – the hard work, the effort – to make it work." This mix of being practical and passionate set her up for her international career.

Braveness, Lives On! 

Moving to London was a whole new world. Inspired by models like Danica Magpantay and Coco Rocha, she had her sights set on going global. "Those women inspired me to take that step." But she quickly learned the realities of the industry.

"Homesickness was a big one. The first three years were really tough because I missed home so much." Living alone in a new country was lonely, especially during the pandemic. "And it was right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, so everything was uncertain."

On top of that, visa issues were a constant struggle. "Having a Philippine passport meant my life revolved around visas." This affected her career, with missed opportunities. "I even lost two campaigns because I didn’t have a US visa." Despite these hurdles, she kept going, learning to adapt and succeed.

Forward and Upward 

All her experiences led her to start Eiveren Models, an agency to support Filipino models. It started with simple questions. "Models would message me on Instagram, asking about UK visas, finding agencies, or just general life in the UK." She realized she had a lot of useful information.

"We’d meet for coffee and talk, and I realized how much I knew." Her goal was clear: to get more Filipinos recognized. "I wanted to see more Filipino representation." She wanted to change how people saw Filipino models, highlighting their strength and talent.

"I want Filipino models to be known for more than just beauty, but for our culture too." For those starting out, she gave practical advice. "Keep building your portfolio. Your book is your bible." She stressed being independent and understanding contracts. "Don't trust anyone but yourself. Read your contracts!"

Her main message was about giving models control. "Agencies work FOR YOU. Models need to realize they’re in charge of their careers." Eiveren Models is her way of making sure future models have the support and guidance she wishes she had.

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Photography by Rxandy Capinpin

Styling by Yvona Laquian

Ensembles by Rey Calajate and MNTCLV

Makeup by Lars Cabanacan

Hair by Jan Froa

Nails by John Friday of Kinang Nails

Interview and Words by L.A Bendaña

Models: Ella Eiveren and Sophia Aguado of Eiveren Models