From Runway Roots to Global Reach: How Brandon Is Shaping the Future of Fashion at Sutherland Models

For Brandon, now a leading agency director at Sutherland Models, the spark that ignited his fashion career came early and unexpectedly. At just 12 years old, he found himself walking in a community charity fashion show organized by The Welcome Wagon, a group his mother was involved in. Dressed in a vibrant blue satin bomber jacket and filled with youthful confidence, Brandon took to the runway for the first time. “It’s an experience I’ll never forget,” he recalls. That single moment, seemingly small at the time, planted the seeds for a lifelong journey in the fashion industry. The rest, as they say, is history.

Now part of an agency that’s not only shaped some of Canada’s most successful modeling careers but also redefined what it means to represent beauty on a global scale, Brandon stands alongside agency President Carole, whose vision has guided the company for more than four decades. “Over the past 40 years, our team at Sutherland has stayed passionate about one thing above all: people,” Carole shares. “From the beginning, we've been dedicated to discovering and developing Canadian talent, helping models grow not just professionally, but personally too. That same dedication has helped us build lasting relationships - both here at home and with top agencies and brands around the world.”

But Sutherland’s growth hasn’t just been about talent and networking, it’s been driven by purpose. “What’s really driven our growth, though, is our belief that the fashion industry should reflect the real world,” Carole says. “We've worked hard to build a diverse and inclusive roster, celebrating all backgrounds, body types, identities, and ages. That hasn’t just made us stronger as an agency, it’s opened doors for our models and helped shift the industry in a more inclusive direction.”

“At the heart of it all is a team that genuinely cares,” she adds. “We’re proud of what we’ve built, and we’re excited to keep pushing boundaries and supporting the next generation of talent - locally and globally.”

Sutherland Models embodies the spirit of an agency founded not only on style, but on substance. A place where opportunity aligns with purpose, and where the future of fashion is shaped with every new face that walks through the door.

Models of Canada: Can you take us back to the moment you decided to pursue a career in the fashion industry? What was that defining moment for you?

Brandon: My mother was a member of a community group called The Welcome Wagon, which organized a charity fashion show. She encouraged me to participate as one of the models, and at just 12 years old, I confidently strutted down the runway in a vibrant blue satin bomber jacket - an experience I’ll never forget.  The rest as they say is history!  

Models of Canada: The fashion industry has seen a lot of changes over the years. From your perspective, how has the landscape of modeling and fashion shifted, especially in Canada?

Brandon: The fashion and modeling industry has undergone some significant shifts globally, and Canada is no exception. Several key trends have shaped the industry over the years:

• Canadian fashion has embraced greater diversity in terms of race, body type, gender identity, and age. Brands and designers are moving away from traditional beauty standards, promoting a more inclusive representation of society.  

• The influence of social media has drastically changed how models and brands operate.  We have a division that focuses solely on Social Media bookings.  

Models of Canada: What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned in your journey within the fashion world, and how have those lessons shaped your approach to working with models today?

Brandon: From a mental health perspective, one of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned through the years  as an agent  is the importance of resilience and self-care. This industry can be incredibly demanding, with constant pressure to look a certain way, and / or meet high expectations.  Early on, I saw how easy it was for models to struggle with self-doubt, anxiety  and I knew that prioritizing mental well-being was just as crucial as physical appearance.

I’ve also learned the power of self-acceptance. The industry often sets unrealistic beauty standards, but true confidence comes from embracing individuality. I always encourage models to focus on their strengths rather than comparing themselves to others.  Clients more than ever are about authenticity and storytelling.  

Models of Canada: As a leading agent, what motivates you every day to keep pushing forward, even when facing challenges or setbacks in the industry?

Brandon: One of my biggest motivators is the talent I represent. Seeing models gain confidence, land their dream jobs, and break barriers fuels my passion. I know that my role isn’t just about booking jobs—it’s about mentorship, guidance, and creating opportunities that align with their long-term success and well-being.  

Models of Canada: The fashion industry can sometimes be seen as cutthroat and highly competitive. How do you maintain a balance between ambition and compassion when managing your models and your team?

Brandon: At the core of my approach is adaptability. No two people are the same, and success in this industry isn’t one-size-fits-all. By recognizing individual strengths and challenges, I create an environment where ambition is fueled by support, and competition doesn’t overshadow compassion.  

Models of Canada: What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve encountered in your career, and how have you overcome them while still staying true to your values and vision for Canadian fashion?

Brandon: One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my career is navigating the fine line between being honest, passionate, and direct while also understanding that not everyone responds to that approach in the same way. The fashion industry moves fast, and I’ve always believed that clear, direct communication is essential—whether it’s giving feedback to a model, parent  or negotiating with a client.  But over time, I’ve learned that different personalities require a different approach.  

Models of Canada: What role do you believe diversity and inclusivity should play in the future of fashion, and how are you actively fostering that change within the models you represent and the industry as a whole?

Brandon: Diversity and inclusivity should never be treated as passing trends in fashion. Representation isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about creating lasting change where all voices, backgrounds, and body types are valued and celebrated.

At Sutherland Models, we represent a wide range of ethnicities, body shapes, gender identities, and abilities. We push for clients to look beyond traditional beauty standards and embrace authenticity. If a brand is only looking for one type of model, I challenge that perspective and advocate for broader representation.

Models of Canada: Behind every successful individual is a supportive team. Can you share what qualities you look for in the people you work with?

Brandon: Our team has truly become like a family, founded on trust, loyalty, and mutual respect. We are deeply passionate about what we do and feel incredibly fortunate to represent such a talented roster of models. Each individual on our team plays a crucial role in the success of our models, and we take great pride in fostering their growth and helping them reach their fullest potential.   

Models of Canada: If there’s one change you could make to improve the fashion industry in Canada, what would it be and why? How do you believe it would shape the future of the industry?

Brandon: If I could make one change to improve the fashion industry in Canada, it would be to create an alliance that ensures fair and consistent rates for models.

Models of Canada: In your opinion, where do you see the Canadian fashion industry heading in the next 5 to 10 years? What trends do you think will define its evolution, and how will models and agents be adapting to that shift?

Brandon: I feel cautious about the rapid advancement of technology, particularly AI and digital fashion. While these technologies offer amazing potential for innovation, they also raise  concerns. It’s clear that technology will continue to shape the industry, and it’s important to be at the cusp of change in order to remain relevant.   

Models of Canada: For those aspiring to follow in your footsteps, whether they want to become a top model, agent, or industry professional… What advice would you give them that goes beyond just technical skills, but rather focuses on their mindset and personal growth?

Brandon: For anyone aspiring to follow in my footsteps, whether they want to become a top model, agent, or any other professional in the fashion industry, I would say integrity is key. In an industry that can sometimes feel fast-paced and superficial, staying true to your values will not only set you apart but also help you build meaningful relationships.  Have patience - success doesn’t happen overnight.  Whether you’re building your career as a model, agent, or any other industry professional, the road is often full of challenges and setbacks. 

The fashion industry is constantly changing, and your ability to adapt, grow, and stay grounded will determine your long-term success. Keep an open mind, stay humble, and remember that your journey is unique - embrace it fully.

Written by: Models of Canada

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