In a rapidly evolving world where technology continues to reshape industries, the fashion sector is no exception. Combining innovation with creativity, Furkan Yıldız, a software engineer and entrepreneur, has created Models Türkiye—a platform that bridges the gap between fashion and technology. In an exclusive interview, Yıldız shares the story behind this transformative initiative, its journey from a simple idea to a thriving ecosystem, and how it continues to revolutionize the industry for models, influencers, and brands alike. Here’s the interview with Furkan Yıldız:
Welcome, Furkan! It’s great to have you here with us today. Models Türkiye is such an innovative platform, and I’m excited to hear more about your journey and how it all began. My first question, how did the idea for Models Türkiye first come to you?
We’re actually a software company that develops mobile and web applications. Some time ago, a few models came to us and wanted personal websites for them. As more people asked this, we realized there was a need in the fashion industry—models had to have a portfolio to show themselves in digital online world. That’s how we started Models Türkiye. Shortly, we’ve combined fashion with technology.
In what ways is your software transforming the fashion industry?
Technology is making this industry more accessible and transparent. We provide different opportunities for both professionals and newcomers in fashion industry. For professionals, we offer a platform to showcase their work and connect with big brands. For newcomers or amateurs, we create pathways for them to gain visibility and experience. And of course we also help brands find the right professionals for their needs, ensuring they are satisfied with the quality of the work.
How do you balance Models Türkiye as both a fashion platform and a tech-driven company?
Even though this platform is focused on the fashion industry, we are a software company at the core. It’s similar to how Airbnb operates in the tourism industry or Uber in transportation. But they are still software companies. That’s how we work in fashion industry. We combine fashion and tech.
What would you say are the biggest differences between the IT and fashion industries?
IT and fashion are very different. Both are serious and massive industries with a huge impact. But very different. The way they work, communicate, and professionalism are very different.
If you had to choose between working in IT or fashion, which would you pick and why?
If I had to choose just only one to work, of course I would go with IT. Even though this platform is working for fashion, I’m still an engineer. 🙂
How has Models Türkiye evolved since its early days?
At first, it was just a website where models can sign up and create their own portfolios. It became popular very quickly, and hundreds of models joined. Soon, we noticed that brands were also using our website to find models for their projects. So, we improved the system. Now, brands can sign up, post jobs, and choose the best candidates from the applications they get. After the job is done, both the model and the brand can rate and review each other. Brands can also contact portfolios and send direct message to models.
I’ve noticed that influencers and other professionals are now part of the platform. Has it expanded beyond just models?
Over time, we’ve expanded the platform. Now, it’s not just for models but also for influencers, actors, fashion designers, stylists, and other professionals in the fashion industry. They can sign up, create a free portfolio, apply to jobs and start to work with brands.
As technology continues to transform industries, Models Türkiye stands as a shining example of what can be achieved at the intersection of innovation and creativity. With Furkan Yıldız’s vision, the platform is not only shaping the future of fashion but also creating endless opportunities for professionals and newcomers alike. To explore more about Models Türkiye and its inspiring journey, visit www.modelsturkiye.com