Weekly Reporter: Karen Lee

Karen Lee has over two decades of experience in the industry, as both a scout and agency owner. She was the head of the scouting division for Elite Models, and has worked with some of the top agencies in the world. She has seen a great deal within the industry and her answers provide information on how crucial development is to succeed in the industry.

You obviously get to see the results of the development that models and talent receive often. How important is development?

Development is very important, but the key is getting knowledgeable professionals in your corner who are experienced and know how to achieve results. The best companies know how to reach their subjects and that's when the real growth can occur.

What would you say to the people who say that talent should not get involved with development centers?

I would say that they're not fostering the growth that the talent need to develop and compete in this industry. Everyone requires development, in every sport and every career. Even in Yoga, there is a concentration on continuing to evolve. It just is not very realistic to say that talent should come to an event unprepared.

What is the appeal of the IMTA? Would you encourage more people to seek it out?

It's a mutually beneficial opportunity for the talent, agencies and directors. It's also very interesting to watch the talent interact in this environment. The IMTA is a great event. It provides networking and interaction at a level that would be difficult to reach on their own. I would encourage more talent to get the development they need to reach a professional level and to participate if they can.

How do you think events encourages young talent?

It's good to see the younger talent get involved and taking an active role in their careers. There's a specific investment in trying their best and wanting to succeed, and agents want to see that passion and drive. Participating in events allow them to be responsible for themselves and to “direct,” to a certain degree, where they go and what they see themselves accomplishing.

As far as encouraging and developing, how do you think Nijah / New Faces Development measures up?

I think that Nijah / New Faces Development does a great job at the scouting and developing stages. They have a very knowledgeable group that have a lot of insight on the industry. I'm a former scout for Elite, so I have seen that side of the industry and it's not easy. It takes work to take someone from the outset to a successful modeling career.

The developing business is extremely important. I can't overstate that. The people within the centers are committed and passionate about their respective industries and they have a vested interest in seeing the talent succeed. It's such a competitive industry that having any additional knowledge or tutelage can be the difference maker.