Maureen Wroblewitz, 19, the first Philippine representative to win Star World’s “Asia’s Next Top Model” still can’t believe she won the coveted title and had doubted herself at one point during the contest.
In a lengthy Instagram post following her initial reaction after her win in the reality show’s 5th Cycle, the Fil-German beauty said “I still can’t believe I’m saying this… but I’m Asia’s Next Topmodel! It feels like a dream and I don’t know when I’ll ever realize that all this has happened to me. This has been such a crazy journey but definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’ll never forget about.”
Maureen was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and at, 11, lived in Germany after her mother passed away. At 15, she moved to the Philippines and was discovered by a modeling agent on Instagram.
Although Filipina models have been among the most competitive in the show’s previous seasons—among them, Stephanie Retuya, Jodilly Pendre, Monika Sta. Maria, and Katarina Rodriguez (who finished third overall in Cycle 2)—the Philippines had yet to get the top title. Last year, the Philippines lost its chances of bagging the grand prize when Julian Flores was eliminated on the 11th week.
Maureen’s IG post, which has been like by more than 140,000 followers, exposed her delicate side as well: “Before I entered the competition, I already doubted myself. I never even thought I would make it into the competition at all. But look at me now!”
In another paragraph, she also showed her determination to win the prize and her dedicated the title to her country: “There were times where I felt like giving up, but I knew that it couldn’t be an option. I was the last Filipina standing and a Filipina has never won before. I wanted to win this for my country—the Philippines and I’m so happy to say that I did. This is all for you guys! We won this together.”
Maureen was joined by two other Philippine delegates, Anjelica Santillan and Jennica Sanchez, who were eliminated during the first and third weeks of the show.
On her intense but fulfilling journey, the winner of Asia’s Next Top Model Cycle 5 shared: “I hope I inspire everyone to do the same thing I did. To follow your dreams and to not let anyone bring you down. Do what you love to do!”
The reality TV contest was also graced by Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, who also said she was impressed by Maureen’s beauty and performance in the challenges. “Good job. You’ve really proven that you’re more than just a pretty face,” Pia told Maureen after she was declared the winner. (Read related InterAksyon Entertainment story).
Maureen brings home a modeling contract from the prestigious Storm Model Management based in London.