We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gigi Daskalova Flores. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gigi below.

Gigi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you recount a story of an unexpected problem you’ve faced along the way?

One of the most unforeseen challenges I encountered in my business—shared by many others—was the COVID-19 pandemic. Having just become owner of the company in late 2019, I was met with the global shutdown in early 2020. The sudden pause in client bookings, travel restrictions, and the fast shift towards vaccination requirements completely changed our industry overnight.

Rather than perceiving this time as a setback, I chose to focus my energy on internal growth, education, and strategic preparation for a future return to normalcy.

Fortunately, we had already initiated plans to transition our new face development to an online platform in 2018-2019. By the time the pandemic began, our online program was operational, and this helped position us advantageously while many similar businesses struggled to adapt. The pandemic required a shift in business practices and creative solutions, such as utilizing Zoom for ongoing new talent development.

Our online program proved invaluable during these challenging times, allowing us to continue developing new talent and preparing them for the modeling industry as client bookings resumed.

Gigi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Gergana (Gigi) Daskalova Flores and I am the owner of M&I Models. My journey with the company began in 2012 as a model. After working in this capacity for 2-3 years, I was unexpectedly invited by the previous owner to take on the role of “model coach” for the company’s model development classes. Despite my initial surprise, I accepted the offer and began assisting with development programs for women, men, and children. It definitely brought me great satisfaction to have the opportunity to mentor new talent and support them in their entry into the modeling industry.

After a few months, I received another unexpected offer from the previous owner to begin helping out in the office for basic duties like filing paperwork, making fliers, responding to emails etc. This was definitely a new territory for me, but my passion for the industry led me to accept the opportunity and after just a few months I became the official office assistant.

As further opportunities arose, I advanced to the position of the booker, acting as the primary liaison between clients and models. This role was instrumental in expanding my understanding of the business and developing key industry skills.

I then progressed to the role of office manager/booker, where I was additionally responsible for supervising staff when the owner was not present.

My responsibilities continued to grow when I was appointed Agency Director, a position that involved close collaboration with the previous owner across various parts of the business. This role significantly deepened my knowledge of agency operations.

In the summer of 2019, the previous owner offered me the opportunity to become the owner of the business. Although this was a surprising offer as I had just graduated college with a marketing degree, my true passion for the industry and extensive experience with the agency led me to accept the offer. I officially took over as owner in October 2019 (at the age of 22), and this October marks my fifth year in this role.

M&I Models is a modeling agency based in Wichita, KS. We specialize in nurturing new and aspiring talent, facilitating local work connections, and securing placements with national and international agencies. Our extensive history and dedication to comprehensive model development sets us apart in the industry. We pride ourselves on producing well-educated, professional, and versatile talent.

On a personal level, I am most proud of my decision to embrace this leadership role at such a young age. Despite facing challenges and doubt from others due to my age, I have learned that determination and confidence are essential for achieving your goals. I am very honored to contribute to the growth of new talent in the modeling industry.

Professionally, I take pride in the significant progress I have made in growing M&I Models through unwavering commitment and hard work. The journey continues to involve numerous challenges and long hours, but the results are always extremely rewarding.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Founded in 1985, M&I Models has built a strong reputation through its extensive history and continued commitment to excellence. An important factor in upholding and enhancing this reputation is the incredible talent we represent. We are fortunate to work with outstanding individuals who consistently showcase professionalism and contribute positively to our brand and business.

One of the most gratifying aspects of my role is receiving feedback from satisfied clients who commend the professionalism and skill of our talent. Such endorsements not only affirm our mission but also reinforce our dedication to maintaining high standards within the industry. It is also extremely special when our talent notices and appreciates the hard work we put in for them.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

So far I would say there are two books that have very much influenced and motivated me, shaping my perspective and approach to personal and professional growth. The first is “Think and Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill and Rosa Lee Beeland. I highly recommend this book to everyone, especially business owners. Its principles advocate for cultivating a positive mental attitude, setting clear goals, and persistence in following those goals. The motivational insights and clarity it provides is invaluable. I think it is easily a book that can be revisited multiple times throughout one’s life.

The second book is “Feel Good Productivity: How to Achieve More by Building Habits You Love” by Ali Abdaal. I found this book very engaging due to its integration of psychological principles, a subject I am passionate about from my minor in psychology. The book offers great guidance on achieving goals efficiently while ensuring that the process remains enjoyable and aligned with your personal values. It is a valuable resource for those seeking to improve productivity without compromising their well-being. The inclusion of psychological experiments at the end of each chapter provided really great additional depth and insight into the key themes.

Additionally in early 2024, I designated this year as a period of personal growth. To support this commitment, I invested in a bundle of over 30 online courses created by female entrepreneurs. These courses cover a range of important topics, including Social Media for Business, AI for Business, Motivation, Manifestation, Passive Income and many more. Going through these courses has been both enjoyable and enlightening. They have sparked so many new ideas and strategies for both my personal and professional development.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.modelsandimages.com
• Instagram: @modelsandimages and @gigidaskalova
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerganadaskalova?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app