Merlyn Mantilla: The Rise of a Fashion Icon and Empowerment Advocate

From the runway to the boardroom, Merlyn Mantilla’s journey is a story of grit, grace, and unwavering ambition.

Born in Colombia and raised amidst the rich cultural backdrop of Spain, Merlyn Mantilla is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of reinvention. Now thriving in the dynamic city of Miami, she has not only made her mark as a beauty queen and internationally published model but also as an entrepreneur and role model for aspiring women worldwide. Her path from Ms. Miami Nation to the illustrious title of Ms. Universe Nation has become a beacon of hope, reminding us all that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible.

At the core of Merlyn’s success is her personal mantra: “We just need to pursue what we want to achieve.” This belief has shaped every aspect of her life, from her early years navigating the competitive world of fashion and modeling to her latest achievements. In 2024, Merlyn was recognized as a Top 5 Runway Model during a prestigious global fashion show in Miami—a clear acknowledgment of her exceptional talent and indomitable spirit.

As if her accomplishments on the runway weren’t enough, Merlyn is about to add another accolade to her impressive résumé. This year, she will be honored with the esteemed “Person of the Year” award at the HM Awards Ceremony in London, further solidifying her place as a leading figure in both fashion and female empowerment. 

But Merlyn’s success doesn’t end with her personal accolades. With a solid foundation in Finance and Business, combined with her specialization in Fashion and Retail Management, Merlyn has a profound understanding of the industry from multiple perspectives. This diverse skill set has fueled her latest venture: Global Model Hub, an innovative company dedicated to nurturing the next generation of models and pageant participants. Through Global Model Hub, Merlyn offers aspiring talent comprehensive assessments, workshops on walking and posing, and essential resources for photography and media exposure—arming them with the tools they need to succeed.

Her participation in New York Fashion Week (NYFW) has only strengthened her resolve to push boundaries. As she continues to prepare for new challenges, including her pursuit of the coveted Top Model title, the fashion world waits with anticipation. With each step she takes on the runway, Merlyn not only dazzles audiences but also inspires countless others to follow their dreams.

Merlyn Mantilla is a force in fashion, but more importantly, she stands as a symbol of empowerment in an industry often fraught with challenges. Her journey is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and a vision, the sky is the limit. And as Merlyn continues to ascend the global stage, one thing is certain: this trailblazer is just getting started.

Latest from Fashion