More Than a Mother Agent: Christopher Massardo’s Story of Passion, Purpose, and Progress
Christopher’s journey stands out as a powerful reminder that true success in fashion comes from authenticity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to people. From a serendipitous conversation at a party in 2009 that sparked his first magazine article to his transformation into a dedicated mother agent, Christopher’s path into the Canadian fashion world is one marked by passion, grit, and a clear-eyed understanding of the challenges and rewards that come with it.
As he reflects on his career, Christopher reveals the seismic shifts that have redefined modeling, particularly the rise of social media and the growing embrace of body diversity. Yet his story is more than just a reflection on trends; it’s a testament to his deep respect for the models he represents, his insistence on honesty in an industry often clouded by empty promises, and his belief that every model deserves a fair shot at success, no matter their background or body type.
Christopher’s dedication to fostering a more inclusive industry is evident not only in the diverse roster he champions but also in the way he carries himself: with transparency, compassion, and a fierce determination to uplift those around him. His insights on ambition, compassion, and the importance of focusing on the wins no matter how small, offer an inspiring blueprint for anyone hoping to carve their own path in the fast-paced world of fashion.
As the Canadian fashion scene continues to evolve, Christopher’s voice and his vision stand as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in the most competitive of industries, integrity and kindness can still shine through.
Models of Canada: Christopher, 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?
Christoper: My career in fashion started in my 20’s. I was at a party some time in 2009 and I had met an editor of a magazine. I was telling him my perspective on the Canadian fashion industry at the time. He then asked if I would write a piece on what I was talking about. I didn’t think he was serious and I really didn’t think much of it at the time. A week passed by and the editor tracked me down and offered to pay me to write the article. I took the opportunity and within a few months I was writing for other magazines. Flash forward to the end of 2017 after years of working on the production, publishing and casting side. That’s when I made the decision to become a mother agent. I realized it was the models I was most drawn to and inspired by.
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?
Christopher: The fashion industry has stayed the same in many ways, but on the same note, it has changed a lot. Social media and body diversity I feel are the biggest changes. Social media has been around for a hot minute now, but over the past 5 years it has really consumed certain aspects of our industry. Maybe too much. I find while social media has its benefits, but it makes it all too easy to play the comparison game.
Body diversity has made it so models of different heights, skin tones and body shapes have much more of a fighting chance to make it in the industry.
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?
Christopher: My Nonna always had a funny saying, “Don’t bull-shit a bull-shitter”. I’ve always seen that as something that translates to recognizing another persons strong sales game and not to underestimate them OR if you know somebody is good at playing the game, don’t try to out play them.
I apply that to my job and I try to be as transparent and honest as possible. There’s a lot of people in our industry unfortunately talking a big game with little follow through.
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?
Christopher: My models! They work so hard and put so much of themselves into this. I always want to ensure that I’m working just as hard as they are to give them every opportunity possible.
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?
Christopher: I remind myself and my models regularly that…
1) We are all human.
2) Nobody is losing or saving lives in this industry.
Compassion is important especially because sometimes models can give 100% and are doing everything right, but nobody can book everything. You have to focus on the wins and not the losses. With that said - we also need to remind ourselves that sometimes a “no” is really just a “not yet”. Things typically happen when they’re meant to happen.
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?
Christopher: I would say the biggest challenge for myself is watching how some others in this industry are willing to compromise so easily for a quick result. Quick doesn’t always translate to longevity and longevity really is the goal.
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?
Christopher: I think what’s most important is that instead of saying it, we need to put it into practice. Everybody talks about diversity and inclusivity in a positive way, but sometimes of those same people aren’t practicing it.
I actively foster that change through my roster. I represent models of different heights, sizes, ethnicities. All of it! A gorgeous human is a gorgeous human.
Models of Canada: Behind every successful individual is a supportive team. Can you share who is on your team and what qualities you look for in the people you work with?
Christopher: Aside from my models I don’t actually have a team. I do just about everything myself - from the website, to admin work, taking digitals, etc. That’s me!
HOWEVER - I have been very fortunate to work with some of the best agents in Canada and around the globe. Far too many to name, but I am very proud of the circle I have curated. They know who they are and I know they’re reading this so THANK YOU!!
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?
Christopher: Anybody who has a shitty attitude should leave. Hahaha is that too much? Look, there’s room for all of us. So to the few souls who think they can be the Lone Ranger. Give it a rest.
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?
Christopher: That’s a tough one. That really depends on how the Canadian retail and apparel industry succeeds over the next 5-10 years. Toronto is always a great market for development, but it would be amazing to see the Canadian market grow into something more like L.A. or London.
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?
Christopher: As agents we work our butts off. Rarely have I seen an agent who is succeeding and they’re not putting in a shit ton of work in. Even the models sometimes don’t see how much work goes into it.
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?
Christopher: If you want to work in fashion, in any capacity, you can’t take anything personal. You have to be willing to put in 100% effort and then also accept there is no guarantee you’ll win. You can do everything right and sometimes things don’t click the way you hope.
That said, when everything does click the way you envisioned - that’s a powerful feeling. There is something so incredible about watching a model go from their first test, to their first international contract and then their first big moment. What a rush!!
Written by: Models of Canada
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