Maureen Wroblewitz has done it. As the first Filipina ever to win Asia’s Next Top Model, the dark horse has crushed bullies everywhere. She says to them, “You shouldn’t have underestimated me.” This is perhaps one of the most unexpected turnouts in reality TV. Out of 14 contestants throughout Cycle 5, the Philippines prevailed. She won as Cycle 5’s Topmodel on June 28, besting Shikin Gomez of Malaysia and Mihn Tu of Vietnam.
In an Instagram post on July 29, the Filipina-German model says, “I still can’t believe I’m saying this..but I’m Asia’s Next Topmodel!” To her, it feels like a dream. The journey she has had is a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” one that she will never forget about.
Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 5 winner Maureen Wroblewitz sends powerful message to bullies
As someone who has been looked down on and bullied by competitors saying that she only had looks, but no skills, Maureen surpassed everyone’s expectations. She tells CNN that these challenges only pushed her further and motivated her to prove them wrong. She stresses that “being inexperienced doesn’t mean you’re week.” Cindy Bishop, the host of AsNTM Cycle 5, even lauded Maureen in her Facebook post saying, “You’ve defied all expectations in this competition. Well deserved.”
In the final photo shoot, top fashion personalities Cindy Bishop, creative director Yu Tsai, and Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach were there. Joining them were Nylon Singapore editor-in-chief Adele Chan, and Storm Model Management agent Ruby Adler. They were all significant in the judging process.
Maureen’s advice to those who are bullied: “You shouldn’t mind them.” Maureen advises everyone to “focus on the people you love and focus on yourself.” Throughout the competition, Maureen learned to trust her instincts and most of all to love and accept herself for who she really is. By doing this, she became more comfortable and more confident. She tells the Philippine Star that her lack in experience became her ticket to success. So even if she was criticized for being the shortest and the most inexperienced, she finished strong. She said is ecstatic that she has proven those bullies wrong. To them, she says, “I’m not just a pretty face. I’m more than that!”
Aside from the affirmation and that certain sense of pride for being officially welcomed to the glamor and glitz of the fashion industry, Maureen won a modeling career in New York and a brand new car.
3 Things To Know About Filipina Model Maureen Wroblewitz On Asia’s Next Top Model Top 3