A Transgender-Only Modeling Agency Is Setting Up Shop in Los Angeles

by Hanna Lustig

Don’t you love when a random piece of news renews your fragmented faith in humanity? That’s precisely how I felt when I learned there’s a Thailand-based modeling agency opening a trans-only branch in LA this summer.

The announcement is just another groundbreaking move by Apple Model Management, who made history last year as the first agency IN THE WORLD to include trans models alongside cisgender models.

“Our strong commitment to developing them as successful models is never about quantifying or qualifying their gender,” explained LA agency director Cecilio Asuncion. “It’s never a question of if they are women or men, it’s about their passion and commitment to being the best possible models they can be.”

Asuncion also happens to be the activist-filmmaker behind critically acclaimed documentary What’s the T?, which chronicles the lives of trans women and their presence in the modeling industry throughout history. Legends like Candy Darling, Octavia Saint Laurent, and Caroline Cossey (Tula), for example, had talent in spades, but failed to reach “their full potential” because of societal stigma.

“This has to change,” Asuncion said.

Hell yes it does. Six models have already signed with Apple, but they’re looking for more! West Coast represent. 

Image via The Advocate

Read more at Bust.com: 

The Military Will Lift Its Transgender Ban

Inspiring Photo Series Seeks To Showcase Women’s Diversity

Caitlyn Jenner Says Transgender People ‘Deserve Your Respect’ In Inspiring Speech 

You may also like

Get the print magazine.

The best of BUST in your inbox!

Subscribe to Our Weekly Newsletter

About Us

Founded in 1993, BUST is the inclusive feminist lifestyle trailblazer offering a unique mix of humor, female-focused entertainment, uncensored personal stories, and candid reporting that tells the truth about women’s lives.

©2023 Street Media LLC.  All Right Reserved.