Barbara Mascia flew into, literally, her high fashion modelling career in New York City and set it up within weeks after leaving Argentina at the age of 17. That was not her second phase of modelling. This was her first-ever shot at modelling, in the toughest market in the world.
Many would find that to be a defining moment and be content. Mascia does not want to be defined by her career, saying, “I hate it when people around me say they are just a model or just a lawyer. We shouldn’t see ourselves being just one thing. I want to be an icon, to be known as a model, a good business person, and an innovator”.
The Barbara Effect
“I don’t only do international modelling; I also work for Mangia assisting them with social media because social media is where the market is at.”
Is that enough? Not for Ms Mascia. She adds, “As they own three restaurants, I am also heading up the introduction of new products onto their menu in line with global food trends, e.g. new vegan items, new superfoods etc. A healthy lifestyle is essential and it is suitable for clients to have these options on the menus.
“I come from an old-fashioned family that has traditional comfort food meals. I used to conflict with them at mealtimes when faced with just meat and potato type options on the table. I would ask ‘where is the salad’ and get moaned at.”
And, no, that is still not enough. “I am also leading new merchandise options for Mangia, finding innovative products to brand, dealing with the international suppliers with the design, the orders and the distribution,” Mascia explains excitedly, “I love this marketing side of business.”
The Now And The Future
“After modelling, I would like to start my own business, perhaps in skincare or make-up for women. It will be with products that are gentle on the earth. We need to be gentle on nature. In Argentina, we are very close to nature; in NYC people are very detached from nature.
“I am trying, through my work, to encourage others to reduce waste, to recycle and to make choices that are gentler on Mother Nature. If you have a good mindset, if you take good care of your body, you will tend to take care of those around you and our beloved Mother Earth.”
Model, marketeer and amazing, all by the age of 21. Follow this beautiful, talented, young entrepreneur and learn how to achieve huge life goals.