Episode 61 

This week, Tessa is joined by international model Marouso Tzaneti to hear the story behind her career in the modelling industry, from being discovered in Greece at 16 years old to working across different international markets. 

Marouso shares what it is really like building a career as a model, including adapting to new environments, learning from different experiences and finding her place within an industry that is constantly changing. She also talks about balancing modelling with studying chemistry, the importance of education and why having interests outside of modelling has always been important to her. 

The conversation explores the changing expectations placed on models today, from building a personal brand online to showing personality beyond the images. Marouso shares her thoughts on what makes someone stand out, the challenges of an unpredictable career, and the advice she would give to young models starting their journey. 

Marouso Tzaneti on Building an International Modelling Career, Life Behind the Images and Staying Grounded 

Interview by Tessa Dewing for The Business of Modelling Podcast 

Marouso Tzaneti is an international model who began her journey in the industry at just 16 years old after being discovered in Greece. Since then, she has built experience working across different markets while continuing to focus on her personal growth and education alongside modelling. In this episode, Marouso shares an insight into the realities of life as a model, the challenges of building a long-term career and what she has learned throughout her journey. 

Starting Out 

Marouso’s entry into modelling was unexpected. At 16, she was approached with an opportunity that opened the door to an industry she had never originally planned to enter. While modelling became an important part of her life, she always maintained other interests and ambitions alongside it. From an early stage, education remained a priority for Marouso. Alongside building her modelling career, she studied chemistry, something that she feels helped her maintain balance and perspective. 

Speaking about the importance of education, Marouso explains, “My parents always said you can continue with modelling, but you have to finish your studies first because you will need it.” She believes that a model’s identity should not be defined by one career alone and that having another focus can provide stability throughout the unpredictable nature of the industry. 

Building an International Career 

As her career developed, Marouso gained experience working across different markets and adapting to the expectations of an international modelling career. She explains that every country and every market brings something different, and learning how to navigate those environments is part of the journey. While modelling can appear glamorous from the outside, Marouso speaks openly about the reality behind the images, including the uncertainty that comes with the profession. 

“I think you have to be patient because sometimes you will have a lot of jobs and sometimes you won’t have any jobs,” she says. 

The Reality of Being a Model 

The conversation explores what life as a model is really like beyond the final photographs. Marouso talks about the importance of professionalism, adapting to different situations and understanding that every experience contributes to growth. “I think modelling is not only about being beautiful. You have to have something else to give.” 

Personality, attitude and the ability to connect with people are all important parts of being successful in the industry. The image may be what people see first, but there is much more involved behind the scenes. 

Social Media and Building a Personal Brand 

Tessa and Marouso also discuss the changing relationship between modelling and social media, and the pressure models can feel to create a personal brand alongside their careers. Marouso believes social media can be a valuable tool, but that authenticity is key. 

“You have to be genuine. You have to show how your personality is.” She explains that models today have the opportunity to share more of who they are beyond their work, but that it is important not to lose sight of themselves in the process. “It’s very important to have good social media because it’s another book of yours, for more people to reach.” 

Advice for Young Models 

Having experienced the industry from a young age, Marouso shares her advice for anyone considering a career in modelling. She is realistic about the challenges but believes that with the right mindset, it can be an incredibly rewarding journey. 

“At some point, maybe modelling might have its ups and downs, and maybe you will have to get a Plan B. This is what I advise young models to do. They really always need a Plan B.” 

She also highlights the importance of enjoying the journey and accepting that every stage brings different experiences. “You have to enjoy the journey, because it’s not always easy, but there are many beautiful moments.” 

What Comes Through 

What comes through clearly in this conversation is Marouso’s grounded approach to modelling. Her journey is not just about the photographs or the opportunities, but about the experiences, lessons and personal growth that happen along the way. 

Her story reflects the reality of building a career in an industry that can be exciting, unpredictable and constantly changing. For Marouso, staying curious, continuing to learn and remaining true to yourself are all important parts of creating a career with longevity.