Q: Can you share your journey from CMTC to where you are today? 

A: When I think of CMTC and the impact it’s had on my story, I consider it the most pivotal building block in my journey thus far. It opened my eyes to the industry that I was so passionate about, yet knew so little about. When I think of Mia Dover walking into CMTC 2023, boy, was I ever proud of the woman who walked in there… though I wish I could tell her it was simply the very first step in starting all over again. To have known myself then and to sit here now as I write about my journey, I can openly say that we are only just getting started… CMTC was just the beginning.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of your journey in the modelling industry thus far?

A: Sometimes the most rewarding parts of our journey as a model, let alone in most industries, are not always obvious. Now, looking back, the most rewarding part of my journey in becoming a full-time model has been the lessons from leaders in the industry. Picture this: it’s Sunday morning callbacks at CMTC. It was an agent from Wilhelmina Models who gave me the constructive feedback that it was time to rebrand myself to show the world who Mia Dover truly is, the girl standing right in front of him, and not what was being shown in my book…At the time, this was shocking feedback that I took to heart. I took it very personally, and it affected me for some time to come. Am I ever glad I listened to him.

Q: What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in the industry, and how did you overcome them?

A. The biggest challenges I faced were much earlier on; this was during a time when I was simply not proud to call myself a model. During a time when I hid photoshoots and creative gigs from my friends. There was always a fear of judgment that loomed over me anytime I spoke about modelling – being body-shamed and made fun of in school at a young age opened the door to insecurities when pursuing this industry.

Now, proudly making this a full-time profession, it took years in the making to honour that job title. I overcame this by being consistent in my craft and honouring my passion.

Q: How did CMTC help shape your career and open doors for you?

A: CMTC was a big player in how my career has shaped up thus far. We tend to signify certain factors in why doors open or don’t. They presented the doors that I single-handedly chose to open myself so that I could better shape my future (I hope that makes sense).

No one is going to open those doors for you if you aren’t willing to yourself – especially in the industry of creative arts. We are choosing an industry that affects us personally far beyond others. Whether it be singing, dancing, acting, etc., we are constantly putting ourselves out there to be criticized.

CMTC created this safe space where we have access to leaders and powerhouses of our industry, and those who have been through the nitty-gritty. Show up to CMTC and be ready to learn, and that’ll put you one step closer to chasing your dreams.

DON’T MISS THE SEMINARS! Take my word, they are in place for a reason.

Q: What keeps you motivated and passionate about modelling?

A: I’m motivated by the creative freedom and expression found through modelling. Every opportunity to collaborate and grow pushes me to keep improving and stay passionate in my craft. I remind myself frequently that “I get to do this – not that I have to,” and that will always motivate me to put my best foot forward.

Q: Is there a particular moment in your career that stands out as especially meaningful?

A: To date, my most meaningful career moment would be sitting in the car with my grandma as we drove past Parliament Hill in Ottawa and telling her that I had just locked down a La Vie En Rose campaign. You might ask, “Why this one in particular?” – my grandma has always been incredibly supportive of my modelling career, but telling her that I was finally modelling for one of her very favourite brands was so special.

I wish you could have seen the smile on her face. We were both just so proud.

Q: If you could go back and give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

A: Never listen to the bullies. Put your head down and work. Know your craft, because at the end of the day, YOU are your biggest support system, and if you can’t show up for yourself, no one else will.

Q: What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received in your career?

A: “You are uniquely you and that will forever be your power”

Q: What is your top piece of advice for aspiring models and talent who are just starting in the industry?

A: You are your own brand. YOU MUST BE THE BIGGEST ADVOCATE FOR YOUR BRAND. Period.

Q: What is your favourite way to spend your free time?

A: As much as modelling is a passion and a profession, my very favourite way to spend my free time is in the kitchen, cooking up a storm and being outside with my dogs.