By: Alva Ree
Interviewer: Dimitri, it’s a pleasure having you here. You wear many hats in the fashion world—the Art Director of MS World USA, the Editor-in-Chief of Celebrity News Magazine, and the Fashion TV and DM Corporation owner. What drives you to take on so many roles?
Dimitri Manuel: Thank you, Valeri. It’s great to be here. Each role I take on offers a unique perspective on the fashion industry. Being an Art Director allows me to shape the creative direction of significant events like MS World USA. As an Editor-in-Chief, I get to influence the narrative around fashion and culture through Celebrity News NYC. Owning Fashion TV and DM Corporation gives me the platform to support new talents and push the industry forward. My drive comes from a deep passion for fashion and a commitment to nurturing new talent.
Interviewer: Regarding nurturing new talent, your modeling school is renowned for discovering fresh faces and helping them grow. Can you tell us more about your approach to mentoring new models?
Dimitri: Absolutely. My modeling school focuses on more than just the physical aspects of modeling. It’s about building confidence, understanding the business, and developing a personal brand. We provide comprehensive training—from runway walks to photo shoots and lessons on professionalism and self-presentation. I mentor many of our models, helping them find their unique strengths and how to leverage them in their careers. My goal is to equip them not just with skills but also with the mindset needed for success.
Interviewer: You’re deeply invested in your students’ growth. What do you think sets your school apart from others?
Dimitri: Our holistic approach and the emphasis on individual growth sets us apart. We’re not just looking for a specific “look”—we’re looking for personality, resilience, and the ability to connect with an audience. Our curriculum includes the technical aspects of modeling and media training, fitness, nutrition, and even financial management. We aim to create well-rounded professionals who navigate the fashion industry’s challenges and opportunities.
Interviewer: You’ve also contributed significantly as the Editor-in-Chief of Celebrity News NYC Magazine. How do you balance your responsibilities across these various roles?
Dimitri: It’s all about having a great team and setting clear priorities. I’m fortunate to work with talented professionals who share my vision and passion for fashion and media. Time management is crucial—I allocate specific times of the day or week for different roles. For instance, mornings might be dedicated to the magazine, while afternoons are for Fashion TV or my modeling school. It’s a dynamic balancing act, but it never feels like work when you love what you do.
Interviewer: As the owner of Fashion TV, you’ve been instrumental in bringing fashion to the forefront of global media. What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in this role?
Dimitri: One of the biggest challenges is staying ahead of trends in a constantly evolving industry. Fashion is always changing, and media consumption habits are evolving just as rapidly. We’ve had to innovate continuously, whether that’s through digital content, social media engagement, or immersive experiences like live-streamed fashion shows. Another challenge is maintaining a balance between high fashion and accessibility—ensuring our content appeals to industry insiders and the general public.
Interviewer: With such a diverse portfolio, what’s next for you and your ventures?
Dimitri: We’re always looking to innovate and expand. We’re exploring new technologies like virtual and augmented reality for Fashion TV to offer more immersive experiences. At DM Corporation, we’re working on a new platform connecting aspiring models and fashion professionals with industry opportunities globally. And for Celebrity News NYC, we’re planning to expand our digital footprint with more interactive content and features. I’m also looking to launch a foundation to support underprivileged youth aspiring to enter the fashion industry.
Interviewer: That sounds incredible. Dimitri, you’ve achieved so much, and continue pushing the boundaries. What advice would you give to someone aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Dimitri: Stay passionate and be relentless. The fashion industry is challenging and competitive, but it’s also gratifying. Never stop learning—whether it’s about fashion, business, or even technology. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you. And most importantly, stay true to yourself and your vision. Authenticity is what will set you apart in this industry.
Interviewer: Wise words, Dimitri. Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. It’s been a pleasure.
Dimitri: Thank you, Valeri. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you.
Published By: Aize Perez
