FORWARD MGMT: A Vision Rooted in Heart and Reinvented by the Next Generation
PHOTO BY: JS DÉNOMMÉ
Claudine’s journey stands as a beacon of purpose, compassion, and strength. From her early start at 16 as a model with a boutique agency in Montreal to becoming a respected agent advocating for change, Claudine has lived through and helped shape the industry's most transformative years. Her story is not just one of glamour, but of grit, integrity, and a lifelong mission to protect and empower the talent that brings fashion to life.
Claudine’s defining moment came when she stepped behind the camera. She realized that her true calling wasn’t in being the face of a campaign, but in nurturing the people who stood in front of the lens. Her work as a model agent has since been grounded in empathy and guided by a desire to create what she didn’t have as a young model: mentorship, well-being, and a sense of agency. Through FORWARD MGMT, she’s become a force of change in Canadian fashion championing diversity, building ethical partnerships, and creating an environment where individuality is not only welcomed but celebrated.
But what truly sets FORWARD MGMT apart is the intergenerational vision that fuels it. At the heart of this evolution is Camille, Claudine’s daughter, who brings a bold and modern perspective to the agency. With a deep understanding of digital culture, branding, and the shifting landscape of creative expression, she’s infusing FORWARD with the kind of energy and innovation that resonates with today’s talent and audiences.
Camille bridges the gap between tradition and future, between timeless values and contemporary relevance. She’s reimagining how stories are told on social platforms, through visual identity, and in the way models are seen as full-spectrum creatives, not just faces. Her vision has brought new light to FORWARD’s branding, social media strategy, and talent development, making space for voices that reflect a more inclusive, authentic, and beautifully complex world.
Together, Claudine and Camille embody a rare synergy: wisdom rooted in lived experience and creativity driven by cultural awareness and fresh imagination. FORWARD MGMT isn’t just a modeling agency. It’s a movement toward a kinder, more thoughtful fashion industry, built on legacy, love, and a bold belief in what’s possible when generations build together.
Models of Canada: Claudine, 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?
Claudine: I began my journey in the fashion industry at the age of 16, when I was signed by a boutique agency in Montreal that was just starting to make waves. That first job gave me an exciting glimpse into the world of modeling…its glamour, fast pace, and creativity; but also exposed me to the pressures and expectations placed on young models. I was fortunate to work in both Montreal and Europe during school breaks, which deepened my understanding of the industry’s demands and its cultural nuances.
In my early twenties, I experienced a defining shift: I moved from in front of the camera to behind the scenes, becoming a model agent. It was in that transition that I found my true calling. I realized I could offer the kind of guidance, support, and advocacy I wished I had as a young model. That insight became the foundation of my career and remains the heart of my work today.
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?
Claudine: The modeling and fashion industry has undergone a significant transformation since I first started. In the early days, beauty standards were much more rigid. There was little space for individuality or diversity. But over time, I’ve witnessed a meaningful shift, especially here in Canada.
I can proudly say that the industry has opened its doors to more body and ethnic diversity, representing a more authentic portrait of our society in media, which has been incredibly uplifting to witness. There is still progress to be made, but the fact that different types of beauty are now celebrated is a major step forward.
Social media has also played a huge role in this shift. It’s allowed models to express themselves beyond traditional norms, and it’s pushed the industry to become more responsive, more inclusive, and more human.
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?
Claudine: One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that longevity in this industry comes from integrity, empathy, and adaptability. The fashion world can be fast-paced and unpredictable, but staying grounded in your values makes all the difference not only in your reputation, but in the trust you build with others.
I’ve also learned that modeling is about so much more than looks. Confidence, resilience, and emotional intelligence are just as important as physical presence. That’s why my approach today is very much rooted in mentorship. I see every model as an individual with their own story, strengths, and goals. I aim to guide them in a way that builds their confidence, protects their well-being, and sets them up for long-term success on their own terms.
Models of Canada: As a leading agency, what motivates you every day to keep pushing forward, even when facing challenges or setbacks in the industry?
Claudine: What motivates me every day is the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s journey. Helping a model discover their confidence, land a dream job, or feel truly seen for who they are. Those are the moments that fuel me.
This industry can be unpredictable, but what keeps me going is the belief that we can do things differently. I’m motivated by the chance to build a more ethical, inclusive, and empowering environment for the next generation. I also draw strength from my team, including my daughter Camille, who brings creativity and a fresh outlook to the agency.
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?
Claudine: It’s true! The fashion industry can be intense. But I’ve always believed that ambition and compassion go hand in hand. We create an environment where models feel respected, supported, and heard. We’re not just managing careers, we’re shaping lives.
We’ve also built trusted partnerships with reputable agencies around the world. These relationships help create better, safer, and more meaningful opportunities for our models. Compassion doesn’t mean lowering standards, it means leading with heart, and building trust that lasts.
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?
Claudine: One major challenge has been working in an industry that hasn’t always prioritized the well-being of its talent. I’ve always been committed to changing that by offering a more supportive, respectful environment.
Another challenge has been advocating for Canadian talent on a global stage. There’s so much potential here, and I’ve made it a priority to push for greater visibility. Staying true to my values through mentorship, inclusivity, and long-term growth has been the key to overcoming these challenges and helping shift the narrative.
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?
Claudine: Diversity and inclusivity should be central to fashion’s future. People want to see themselves represented and that representation has real cultural and emotional impact.
At Forward Mgmt, we prioritize representing a wide range of individuals: different ethnicities, body types, gender identities, and styles. We also work closely with international agencies and brands who share our values. It's about making space for voices that have too often been left out and advocating for a more honest, human vision of beauty.
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?
Claudine: I’m proud of the team around me. My daughter Camille brings creativity and a modern perspective to the agency, particularly in branding and social media. We’ve also recently partnered with Laura Nezri to offer strategic marketing services to our clients, a step forward in helping a stronger relationship with our clients.
When building a team, I look for integrity, curiosity, and a genuine desire to support others. Together, we’re creating something rooted in purpose and care.
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?
Claudine: I would love to see more support for Canadian talent. More visibility, funding, and opportunities within our own borders. Too often, talent feels they have to leave Canada to succeed.
At Forward Mgmt, we’re actively working to change that. We offer workshops and wellness initiatives to help our models grow and feel part of a strong, supportive community. Building that kind of environment would reshape the industry and make it more inclusive, confident, and truly Canadian.
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?
Claudine: I see Canadian fashion gaining stronger international recognition for its authenticity and diversity. Models will continue to evolve as voices and entrepreneurs, and agents will need to support their growth in new, holistic ways.
One concern though, is the rise of AI. While innovation has its place, we must protect and prioritize real human talent. At Forward Mgmt, we’re committed to keeping real models at the forefront, promoting authenticity in an increasingly digital world.
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?
Claudine: People often don’t realize how personal this work is. As a mother of two, including a son who is an artist and model living between Montreal and Mexico City, I bring deep compassion to my role. I see my models as individuals, not just images.
Also, the quiet support of helping someone grow, find their voice, and feel seen is the most important part of what we do, and it’s often overlooked.
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?
Claudine: Grit is key. Stay grounded, stay curious, and continue learning. Education is a powerful asset in any path you choose. Failure is also part of the journey. Embrace the lessons! It’s through those lessons that we build character, relationships, and purpose.
Written by: Models of Canada
More details about FORWARD MGMT can be found here