As 2024 drew to a close, many of us have joined the tradition of reflecting on the past year, compiling videos and photos that capture both the highs and lows. Pia Wurtzbach isn't one to miss out with her own Instagram post. In her post, Pia revealed that 2024 was her "most successful year" yet, and she credited much of that success to her decision to become a self-managed artist for over a year already.
"2025 is going to be an amazing year! I am excited to share that I have been a self-managed artist for over a year now and 2024 was my most successful year yet!" the former Miss Universe wrote in her caption. "Thank you to all of the friends, partners, and brands that have made this possible. I cannot wait to do more with you this year, so please get in touch with me directly if you’d like to work together!" she added, expressing her eagerness for more collaborations in 2025.
Pia later clarified in a reply to a comment that while she still receives numerous opportunities from agents worldwide, she manages everything herself without a "middle man." She explains, "I manage my career. There is no middle man, they communicate directly to me. I decide which deals I do, which events I go to, and which opportunities to take. Managing myself has been a truly rewarding part of my career," Pia shared with a follower.
Pia's 2024 was indeed a year of success, from walking the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival to receiving the prestigious The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) award for her humanitarian work, particularly her advocacy in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the Philippines.
What does it mean to be a self-managed artist like Pia Wurtzbach?
Pia isn't the first artist to choose the "self-managed" path. Celebrities like Maja Salvador and even the popular SB19 have also taken the reins of their careers and are now considered "self-managed" artists.
While there is no right or wrong approach when it comes to being represented by an agency or managing your own career, there are significant differences. Think of it as being a full-time employee versus a freelancer—both have their pros and cons.
Here's what being a self-managed artist means:
1. Independence
Being self-managed means you're your own boss. You control your schedule, manage your timelines and deadlines, and decide which projects to take on. You have full control over your personal brand and everything that comes with it. With this freedom, you can set boundaries, choose your collaborations, and, most importantly, say "no" when necessary.
2. Financial freedom
One of the major perks of being a self-managed artist is financial control. While artists under agencies, such as Nadine Lustre with VIVA Artist Agency, often have to give up a percentage of their earnings (like the reported 40% commission in Nadine's case), self-managed artists get to keep 100% of their profits. This way, they don't have to pay for the agency's services or share their earnings with a third party.
3. More opportunities to diversify
As a self-managed artist, you have the flexibility to explore various opportunities and diversify your career. Without the constraints of agency rules, you're free to pursue ventures in different industries—whether it's fashion, business, or philanthropy—on your own terms. This comes handy if an artist wants to grow and explore their creative freedom.
