Focus on Zoe Botwin
There are collaborators — and then there are builders. Zoe Botwin is the latter. A stylist, mentor, and creative director, Zoe has been part of The Factory Studio’s story from the very beginning. His instinct for form, color, and character has shaped many of our most memorable shoots, while his quiet leadership continues to influence how fashion in Cagayan de Oro expresses itself today.
A Visionary in Style and Direction
Zoe is the founder and director of MACDO Models (Models Association of Cagayan de Oro), one of the city’s most respected modeling agencies. But his work goes far beyond casting and styling — he builds careers. Through MACDO, Zoe has guided and mentored a generation of talents who have gone on to make their mark nationally and internationally, including Nikki de Moura (Miss Grand Philippines 2023), Berjayneth Chee (Miss Earth Philippines – Water 2018), and Caroline Veronilla (Miss Universe Philippines finalist). Each one reflects his belief that with the right guidance, homegrown talent can stand anywhere.
Zoe’s reach extends far beyond the studio. He has styled for Miss Cagayan de Oro, created set designs for Miss Kuyamis, and presented his own collection, Spring Awakening, at the Mindanao Fashion Summit. Whatever the project, his signature remains the same — bold yet graceful, detailed yet effortless.
The Architect of Models Boot Camp
The Models Boot Camp was born from Zoe’s idea — a place where aspiring models could learn not just how to pose, but how to present themselves with confidence, purpose, and authenticity. What began as a concept soon became one of Cagayan de Oro’s most inspiring creative movements.
As Chairman of both Class Alpha and Class Beta, Zoe guided the workshops from start to finish, bringing together The Style Firm, MACDO Models, and The Factory Studio in a collaboration that merged fashion, photography, and mentorship. Under his direction, the Boot Camp grew from a workshop into a true community — one defined by shared learning, creativity, and heart.
Collaboration and Craft
Zoe has styled and directed countless Factory shoots, including campaigns with Arthur Osin, Nikki de Moura, and Rexil Salilig Paayas. He has a rare sense of timing — knowing when to refine, when to simplify, and when to let a subject’s natural presence take over.
Working with Zoe feels easy. He listens, adapts, and elevates. On set, his calm focus brings everything together — people, light, fabric, and energy — into a single moment that feels honest and beautiful.
Recognition and Legacy
Over the years, Zoe’s dedication has earned him deep respect from the local fashion industry and his community. He has been recognized by a local university for his mentorship and creative leadership, and in regional circles, he’s often described as Cagayan de Oro’s iconic stylist — a title earned through consistency, kindness, and quiet excellence.
Whether he’s designing for the Mindanao Fashion Summit, styling for Miss Kuyamis, or mentoring the next generation through MACDO Models, Zoe Botwin continues to shape the creative pulse of Mindanao.
For us at The Factory, Zoe isn’t just a collaborator — he’s family. His vision, warmth, and friendship remind us why we create: to connect, to inspire, and to build something that lasts.