Merlyn Mantilla: From Global Runways to Empowering the Next Generation of Fashion Icons

In this interview with Cultural Dose Magazine, we dive into the remarkable journey of Merlyn Mantilla, a model and fashion icon whose career has spanned continents, cultures, and industries. From early beginnings in the UK to navigating the fashion scenes of India, the Emirates, and the United States, Merlyn has seamlessly blended fashion, business, and culture into a global success story. With numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ms. Universe Nation title, she continues to break barriers and inspire aspiring models and pageant contestants worldwide. Join us as we explore her inspiring career, insights into the fashion world, and her vision for the future.

Your career has spanned multiple continents and fashion capitals. How did your early experiences in UK shape your career, and what differences did you notice as you moved to places like the Emirates and India?

In India I have the opportunity to master my interested in fashion by studying a PG in fashion Communication Retail and Marketing and an executive MBA in Retail management.

After acquiring that knowledge, I had the opportunity to move to Emirates where I created my own luxury swimwear ‘LA PALMERA’ which was highly influenced by Indian culture of embellishments and the pieces finished with delicates hand placed Swarovskis. LA PALMERA was sold in 5 countries.

Having the privilege to like in UK particularly in London, was certainly one the greatest opportunities I’ve have had. Being in the capital of the street fashion and glamour chic city, certainly broadened my vision culturally and professionally.

What was the most memorable moment or project during your early days in the model and fashion industry?

I remember one assignment just about to finish my PG in India. It was called ‘the rolling 20’s’ it’s a time that I truly adore! I was model, the designer, the stylist and the make artist of my assignment. I did so well that even the Indian Tribune wrote an article about me an my talent as student. I was so happy to see myself on the newspaper, I just couldn’t believe it.

How did your transition to the United States impact your career, and what were some of the challenges you faced?

I will lie if I will say all has been smooth. US is a very different country, very different to any other country I lived or visited. It took me time to adjust an to learn and know about this country. After this period I just can be grateful of being here, this wonderful country has made my dreams come true being a recognized model,  pageant and fitness and PRO fitness and fashion diva model, get recognized as all the above , bring me enormous gratitude and give me the courage to keep going. 

I’ve recently have been named as Director of Miss Florida US Nation and international Director of the Super Chic Fashion Weeks. I am so honored to be part and help to other’s growth.

Also, I recently registered my own business in Miami, my own Model and Pageant Hub, I wrote my first Make up manual book for models and pageants. 

I am truly grateful with US to help me to excel and take off Globally in my modeling, pageant and fashion career.

Winning the Ms. Universe Nation title is a significant achievement. What did that recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

Personally it means a lot. It’s in a way my own recognition to my dedication and efforts. It’s also the beginning of a new era in my career.

Can you share a particularly defining experience you had while working with renowned designers during major fashion weeks?

I have not a real defining experience. I just can tell that every single fashion show sits different and they help you to grow and shape you. You must be quick,  you need to be flexible, you must be well prepared not only for the runway, you need to be ready to solve issues by yourself. The time in the backstage is so short and anything can go wrong. Readiness is the key!

How has being the face of global companies influenced your approach to modeling and your professional philosophy?

I will never thought that being a model and pageant will allowed me to continue in a successful way my professional career as PR of a Global holding group and as a trader of commodities. I gained more exposure and credibility as well as the opportunity to be and represent and being the image other companies and brands.

Your role as a judge in the Miss US Nation Pageants and Miss Honduras preliminaries must be rewarding. What qualities do you look for in contestants, and how do you approach the judging process?

What really attracts me from a contestant is the charisma and genuine confidence. 

Can you discuss your experience with the Miss US Nation pageant and your role as a distinguished guest for the Chambre of Honduras?

I am deeply grateful and appreciative towards Miss US Nation Pageants to have open the door of my success in US and to allow me to keep growing and have brought me a new family where we work hard to offer the very best so blessed to have been named as Director of Miss Florida Nation and as International Director of Super Chic Fashion Weeks i have a big opportunity to grow in the pageant and modeling fields. In regards of my participation as honored guest of the Chambre of Honduras I felt so stemmed /revered that the president of the Chambre Mr. Selvin Cruz have trusted me to be a member of the judging panel.

What motivated you to establish a model academy in Miami, and what are your main goals for this initiative?

My big motivation is to share my experiences and knowledge in the modeling and pageant world with others and help them in their careers towards the success as it has been my career with less hassles.

As someone who has experienced both modeling and judging, how do you balance these roles, and how do they complement each other?

I have been judged many times as model, pageant and contestant hence I gained the availability to prepared myself better and better every time. I get to know what it takes to be selected this gives me now the power to recognize and judge.

What future projects or collaborations are you most excited about, and how do you envision your role evolving in the fashion and pageantry world?

I signed to be the Face and leading model of Francesa Milano Couture and Bella Fashion Designs. This coming 7th of September 2024 it will launched at the NEW YORK FASHION WEEK their new collections. A photoshoot has been scheduled as well for the new collections of these brands where I will be the face of the brands.

What advice would you give to aspiring models and pageant contestants who look up to you and wish to follow in your footsteps?

To prepare themselves well, not only in the runway aspect or walks. They need to prepare themselves in fashion, make up, beauty, physique, ethics, learn about other cultures and keep studying. A little advice for all future models and pageants, learn languages they will bring more opportunities not only in the fashion industry also in any profession they decide to pursue.

Merlyn, Thank you for your time

Thank you

As we conclude this insightful conversation, it’s clear that Merlyn Mantilla's dedication, passion, and resilience have made her a true trailblazer in the fashion and pageant industries. From launching her luxury swimwear line to mentoring the next generation of models, she remains a force to be reckoned with. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, cultural exploration, and constant growth. Thank you, Merlyn, for sharing your story with Cultural Dose Magazine, and we look forward to witnessing the exciting chapters yet to come in your illustrious career!