Most people don't think of Canada and fashion as being strongly connected. It's not that we don't have anything to offer, but when we think of that particular noun we instantaneously envision countries like France or Italy. Yet, in our home and native land, models appear to flourish. What started with the likes of Linda Evangelista, Shalom Harlow, and Liisa Winkler eventually extended into a large field of triumphs. And those successes broaden day by day still.

Jessica Stam was scouted at a Tim Horton's in Barrie in 2004 for her iridescent azure eyes, alabaster skin and porcelain doll face. It wasn't long after her appearance in several glossy ads for Dolce & Gabbana that she became one of the most sought after models in the world. Those soft, refined characteristics also helped in setting off Heather Marks' career; her rise into the industry set aflame when she was only 12. She's been featured in ads for Moschino and Anna Sui, among many others. She's also worked with prominent designers and strutted through various catwalks.

As Stam and Marks' professions were settled and secure, the fresh face of Coco Rocha shone on runways for an abundance of well-known designers, including Marc Jacobs, Donatella Versace and Karl Lagerfeld. Rocha needed only to grace the cover of Vogue Italia (after being discovered at an Irish Dance Competition) to become a star broadly coveted. 

Daria Werbowy isn't just adored nationally in the fashion industry but she's also managed to become a worldwide legend. She signed with Susan J. Model and Talent Management when she was fourteen, a spontaneous decision that evidently got her foot in the door. Since then she's modeled for many renowned labels, including Versace, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton and Chanel. She's also been frequently featured in Prada's runways and campaigns. The assistance and support of Agent Elmer Olsen helped Werbowy's career ascend. Her colossal popularity has placed her among the supermodels in high demand.

And then there's bohemian flower Irina Lazareanu - a girl who broke out in the cutthroat industry with assistance from her good friend Kate Moss. Not only is she a model admired for her quirky style and unconventional looks, she's also a singer/songwriter who's worked with Moss' ex-husband Peter Doherty and John Lennon and Yoko Ono's son, Sean.  Noot Seear has modeled consistently since 1998, working with everyone from Vera Wang to Oscar de la Renta.  On top of being a thriving model her resume features side work as an actress. She played Heidi in the latest film of the Twilight Saga, New Moon.

There also lies immense potential in the ones whose careers have just begun.  Small town girl Amanda Laine became a young sensation after being convinced by her friends and family to pursue a modeling career.  Tomboyish Montreal native Ryan Martel was 13 when her stunning features got her signed to Folio. Ford model Kate Somers has received steady work since 2008. Gorgeous Samantha Rayner has been featured on runways in New York and Paris. 17 year old Erin Hayes hasn't yet reached beyond Canadian ground, but she's one to look out for. Andrea Sheffield was signed to Lizbell just last year. Will her career skyrocket in 2010? We'll just have to wait and see.