In 2023 Tina Kiniry took a bold step, venturing out on her own to establish Tina Kiniry Management here in West Hartford. The move marks a new chapter in a career that spans nearly four decades that has seen Tina journey from a young model to a prominent figure in the global modeling industry.
Her success story began in 1986 when she was a teenage model, balancing high school and working in places like G. Fox & Co., to help support her family after her father’s death.
Her passion for modeling led her to establish her first modeling agency in 1990, which laid the groundwork for a successful career as an agent and “Mother Agent,” scouting and developing, and placing models and actors across the globe.
After nearly 40 years in the industry, she launched Tina Kiniry Management last year. The Farmington Avenue agency focuses on a comprehensive approach to modeling and talent management, representing clients ranging in age from 4 to 80 years old. Her roster includes a diverse range of actors and models of all shapes and sizes, she says.
One of the agency's most notable discoveries includes Adaora Akubilo who has booked many of the world’s most sought-after beauty contracts including Cover Girl Cosmetics. One of her up & coming models is Anna Haggerty of West Hartford, whom Tina discovered at a school play, and is now modeling in Milan. Anna’s success underscores Tina’s keen eye for talent and her ability to recognize potential in unexpected places.
A Global Perspective
As a “Mother Agent,” Tina operates on a global scale through an extensive network of, and relationships with, international agencies and companies. Those relationships allow her to offer models global opportunities as well as local bookings with prominent brands and companies such as Dick's Sporting Goods, Hyatt, Hasbro, and more. Models represented by Tina have the chance to work in major fashion capitals like New York, Paris, Milan, Los Angeles, and Miami.
The agency also places a significant emphasis on scouting for international talent, including a notable discovery from Colombia. This global reach ensures that Tina’s models are not only visible, but also competitive in the international market.
Diverse Talent and Acting Opportunities
In addition to modeling, Tina Kiniry Management has a robust acting division. Tina is particularly passionate about this aspect of her business, which includes booking talent for commercials, voice-overs, and major films.
Notable projects include films for Netflix and Tubi, roles in the TV show "Power Book 3", and a series of commercials, highlighting the growing acting opportunities in Connecticut and New England.
"My acting division is something I'm very passionate about and the opportunities for acting jobs in Connecticut and New England are growing more and more each year."
The agency represents a wide spectrum of talent, from young actors who have appeared in shows like "Paw Patrol" to curve models making waves in London. This diversity aligns with the agency’s mission to cater to various client needs, whether they are looking for the "girl next door" look or unique special skills.
An Inclusive Approach
One of the key principles of Tina Kiniry Management is its commitment to inclusivity. Tina believes beauty comes in all forms, and her agency reflects this by representing individuals of all ages, shapes, and backgrounds. This inclusive approach not only enriches the agency’s talent pool but also aligns with the evolving demands of the industry.
“While beauty is what some clients are looking for, a lot of clients also want people who look like someone more approachable.”
Whether it’s a small business needing models for a local campaign or a global corporation looking for high-profile talent, Tina Kiniry Management provides a comprehensive range of services. Tina’s ability to adapt to different client needs, from informal fashion stores to major advertising campaigns, ensures that her agency remains a versatile and valuable partner in the modeling and acting industry.
Tina Kiniry Management
998 Farmington Ave., Suite 220
Phone: 860-967-3790
Online: Tinakinirymgmt.com
Email: Tina@tinakinirymgmt.com
On Social: @Tinakinirymgmt
A lot of clients...want people who look like someone more approachable.
My acting division is something I'm...passionate about