Cathy Ledrew’s Vision for a More Inclusive, Homegrown Canadian Fashion Industry
PHOTO BY: CHRISTOPH STRUBE
In an industry often defined by fast-paced trends and surface-level impressions, Cathy LeDrew stands out as a steady force championing compassion and the transformative power of Canadian talent. As a seasoned agent and advocate for emerging models, Cathy’s journey began with a bold sense of style at age 11 and has since evolved into a mission to reshape the modeling world from the inside out.
In this candid interview, she opens up about the defining moments that led her into fashion, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the pressing need to uplift homegrown talent in a globalized industry. With heart, insight, and an unwavering belief in the people behind the images, Cathy offers an inspiring look at what it truly takes to build a more inclusive, empowered future for Canadian fashion.
Models of Canada: Cathy, 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?
Cathy: My interest in fashion was early on, thanks to my dad, who worked for one of Canada’s largest retailers at the time. Through him, I was introduced to the latest trends and always had access to very fashion-forward clothing. I often found myself wearing styles well ahead of the curve, beginning as early as 11 years old. While it sometimes led to teasing from my peers, I loved being the first to wear a new trend and wasn’t afraid to stand out. At the time, I had no idea what the future held, but knew I would find a place in the industry.
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?
Cathy: The modeling industry has evolved in many ways, but its core values, professionalism, presence, and potential remain the same. What has changed is access. Today, aspiring models have more information and tools at their fingertips than ever before, breaking down barriers that once kept the industry exclusive to a select few.
Technology has also revolutionized how we work. Where once a client might capture 8 to 10 perfect frames on film in a full day, digital photography now allows for hundreds of shots to be taken, reviewed, and edited in real time speeding up the process without compromising quality.
What remains constant is Canada’s place as a powerhouse for modeling talent. From runway to editorial and commercial work, Canadian models continue to make their mark globally bringing diversity, professionalism, and impact to every space they enter.
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?
Cathy: Fashion may be a global industry, but it’s also a small world that is built on relationships, respect, and reputation. I’ve seen firsthand how competitive and exclusive it can be. Trends shift, tastes evolve, and what doesn’t fit today might be exactly what’s needed tomorrow. That’s why it’s so important to stay focused, be patient, and keep showing up. There are incredible opportunities for those who work hard, build genuine connections, and trust the process.
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?
Cathy: It’s the people who inspire me. My team, the models, our partners, clients, and creatives. They’re what make this industry so dynamic and rewarding. Every day brings something new, and while it’s not always predictable, one great success story makes it all worthwhile.
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?
Cathy: This industry is truly unique. When a model faces personal challenges, it often shows in their work and development. Real success in this space calls for compassion and understanding. Our team is genuinely invested in the talent we represent, building meaningful relationships along the way. We celebrate their highs and feel their lows because their journey matters to us. While fashion can sometimes appear surface-level or cutthroat, empathy and ambition aren't mutually exclusive. Leading with both is what creates impact and lasting success.
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?
Cathy: One of the biggest challenges we face is helping clients recognize that our local models are just as competitive on the international stage. Unfortunately, that recognition often doesn’t come until they’ve left Canada, something we see across the entertainment industry here.
With limited opportunities for local development, it’s crucial that decision-makers take a chance on emerging talent early on. We need clients to see the value in investing in homegrown models, trusting that they can deliver at the same level as international talent and ensuring they’re fairly compensated for it.
We persevere by maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and service, so clients can trust that we consistently deliver both quality and talent that meets international expectations.
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?
Cathy: Diversity and inclusivity aren’t just part of fashion’s future, they are the future. For too long, the industry has celebrated a narrow idea of beauty, but that’s changing as people push for real representation.
We celebrate beauty in all its forms across race, size, age, gender identity, and ability. We’re committed to finding and developing talent from all backgrounds and creating real space for their voices to be heard.
We encourage our models to own their individuality and share their stories, and we love working with clients who value inclusion and want to do things differently. For us, this isn’t just a trend, it’s our responsibility. We’re dedicated to be part of a more inclusive, forward-thinking fashion industry.
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?
Cathy: Our team is driven by a shared passion for the success of the talent we represent. Sharon, Allison, and Delaney are our incredible agents each bringing unique strengths, sharp instincts, and unwavering dedication to the table. Joanne, our brilliant bookkeeper, keeps the financial side running smoothly, while Katelin, our social media coordinator, brings fresh energy and creative strategy to our online presence.
What unites us is our genuine care for the people we work with and the simple fact that we love what we do. We’re a service-driven agency built on enthusiasm, integrity, ambition, and heart. This isn’t just a job for us, it’s our purpose. Our passion fuels everything we do, and that energy is reflected in the relationships we build and the results we deliver.
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?
Cathy: Whenever I visit major European cities, it’s clear that fashion is woven into everyday life. It’s respected, celebrated, and even makes headlines. Strong funding and community support really help drive that culture. Canada is home to incredibly talented models, designers, artists, stylists, photographers etc who’ve made their mark on the international stage. But too often, they must leave the country to get the recognition and compensation they deserve. We need to do a better job of celebrating our own and creating spaces that allow local talent to thrive and shine right here at home.
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?
Cathy: Digital advertising continues to dominate the landscape. As tech keeps evolving, we’ve got to stay on our toes and keep up with new platforms and trends that shape how we work. Fashion always finds a way to circle back. Old trends return, but with a twist. It's like seeing them through fresh eyes, with a new generation putting their own spin on things.
Models of Canada: Has there ever been something you’ve wanted to share with the public about your role in fashion, your models, or the industry itself that you feel has been misunderstood or under appreciated?
Cathy: Having spent many years in this industry, my goal has always been to highlight models for more than just their appearance. I’ve had the privilege of working with incredibly talented, intelligent, and driven individuals who’ve worked tirelessly to reach their goals. Often, the perception from the outside is that modeling is easy or that anyone can do it, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Success in this field takes stamina, trust, and a strong team. It’s not something an agency can fabricate, it’s a collective effort in an incredibly competitive industry.
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?
Cathy: This industry can be incredibly challenging to navigate, with so much beyond our control. Rather than striving to be something you're not, focus on what is within your control. Maximize your potential by working with what you have. Stay positive, communicate openly, and invest in building and nurturing your relationships - they’re everything. In the end, those connections will bring more value than you can imagine.
Written by: Models of Canada
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