“Happiness is having time to do activities that make me feel alive.” In a world that’s constantly on the go, having time is one of the greatest luxuries we can afford ourselves. This quote comes from Micaela Morgado, co-founder of Models Factory in Portugal, who has mastered the art of balancing a multifaceted career as a model, actress, and nutritionist. In this interview, she shares insights on navigating the challenges of managing a modeling agency, staying grounded in an ever-demanding industry, and the importance of maintaining authenticity and self-care amidst it all. Her journey is an ode to resilience, passion, and finding beauty in the little moments that truly matter.
Photography by Jase Patrick
Describe in three words how the photo shooting was for you with Jase Patrick?
Relaxed, fun, and creative.
You are the co-founder of Models Factory in Portugal. What are the most challenging things in your daily work? And in which situations in your job did you outgrow yourself?
Managing human resources and overseeing multiple projects and tasks simultaneously is challenging. When I started this project (Models Factory), I was a more impulsive person. Over time, I learned to manage those impulses and to be more thoughtful.
What is your advice to young models or photographers starting out in the business?
To young models, I advise that they get to know their body well, as it is their working tool, and learn how to use their features to their best advantage. Also, always presenting yourself with a healthy and well-groomed image in castings and jobs is essential.
What do you think is beautiful?
Authenticity in people is beautiful; moments of laughter with people you love; the sound of ocean waves; flocks of birds flying together.
Modelling, acting, nutritionist – how do you keep a balance in between your busy schedule and how do you deal with stress?
Since I was a child, I had a busy schedule between school, ballet, and music conservatory. I believe that helped me to be organized and balanced. Maybe that’s why now, as an adult, I don’t see myself doing just one of them. Although I’m currently more dedicated to managing the agency and working as an actress/model, I still work as a nutritionist/researcher. I like feeling challenged every day. During my PhD, it was difficult to manage stress because I had to balance it with my professional career and personal life. It was the most emotionally demanding period. I usually say that regular physical exercise was my therapy.
“Regular physical exercise was my therapy.”
Can you tell us one or a few good pieces of advice about nutrition that are not so commonly known?
As a nutritionist, I focus my work on exercise, health, and performance, so I mostly work with athletes. One piece of advice I frequently give is about the importance of adequate carbohydrate intake. Besides being an essential energy source for the musculoskeletal system, they are crucial for brain function, as the brain uses glucose as its primary energy substrate. Another tip I like to emphasize is the importance of mindful eating. It’s common for people to eat while working, watching TV, or using their phones, which disconnects them from the act of eating and often leads to inappropriate food intake. There’s a close, bidirectional relationship between the digestive system and the brain.
What is your biggest strength, and did you work on it to gain it or is it just part of your character?
Maybe my perseverance and positivity. Perhaps positivity is part of my character, as I’ve always been a cheerful person. Perseverance, I think, has developed as I have faced adversities.
Happiness is…
Having time. Time to do activities that make me feel alive, to be with the people I love, to learn new skills.
Model: Micaela Morgado @micaela_morgado
Photography: Jase Patrick @jasefoto
