Late Nights, Big Sets, and Even Bigger Vision: What It Really Takes to Run a 300-Person Shoot.

In this episode of The Business of Modelling, host Tessa Dewing travels to Dubai to meet Ishani Pawar, Managing Partner of Magnet Connect — one of the UAE’s leading production companies. From her early days modelling in India to becoming a powerhouse producer and female CEO in a traditionally male-dominated environment, Ishani shares a story of reinvention, resilience, and creative leadership.

We explore how Dubai’s production industry has evolved, why international brands are flocking to the Middle East, and what it takes to manage 300-person shoots in the desert. Ishani also discusses the reality of launching Magnet Connect, the influence of mentors, and her optimistic view on AI’s role in production. Whether you're a model, creative, or entrepreneur, this conversation offers an inside look at what it takes to thrive in one of the world's fastest-growing media markets.

www.magnetconnect.com

www.businessofmodelling.co.uk

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Behind the Bookings: Building Careers, Navigating Chaos, and Championing Change

In this episode, Tessa meets Sophie Tataryn – senior model booker at The Hive and one of the sharpest commercial minds in the modelling industry. With a career spanning top agencies, Sophie knows exactly what it takes to build a model’s career from first test to international campaign.

From negotiating usage rights to handling last-minute no-shows and six-figure bookings, Sophie shares what really goes on behind the scenes of the booking process. She discusses the evolution of diversity, the power of saying no to bad contracts, and why empathy, stamina and a good spreadsheet are essential tools for any model booker.

www.thehivemanagement.com

www.businessofmodelling.co.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Stockbroker to Storyteller: Reclaiming Identity and Redefining Representation

In this episode, Tessa meets Saaj Raja – a former stockbroker turned multi-hyphenate performer, writer and choreographer whose journey spans Bollywood stages, BBC radio, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Known for blending art with identity, Saaj isn’t just chasing roles – he’s reclaiming space as a British South Asian creative.

From navigating cultural expectations to finding his voice on stage, Saaj shares how he left corporate life behind and stepped into storytelling with purpose. He discusses the weight of representation, the value of mentorship, and why embracing your roots can become your greatest creative strength.

www.saajraja.com

www.businessofmodelling.co.uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.