Anne Flanagan, a 70-year-old retired civil servant from Belfast, never imagined her life would take a dramatic turn almost a decade after her retirement. Anne spent her career working multiple jobs in the civil service, raising two daughters with her husband, and battling low self-esteem. After retiring at 61, her family encouraged her to find something fulfilling to do. She chose to volunteer at a local care home, a decision that would eventually lead to an unexpected adventure.
In January 2024, while out for a walk in Belfast with her husband, Leo, Anne’s life changed forever. Christopher Ward, a photographer renowned for his Instagram page, “Model Strangers,” approached her. Initially mistaking him for a tourist needing directions, Anne was surprised when he asked to take her photograph for his social media page but eventually agreed.
A Viral Sensation
Christopher’s photographs and short video of Anne quickly went viral, captivating thousands of viewers online. The images’ popularity led to Anne being scouted by a modeling agency, which offered her an opportunity to step into the fashion world. Despite her initial reservations and lack of experience, Anne decided to embrace this new venture.
Her first assignment was to model for Kindred of Ireland, a local boutique in Belfast. Reflecting on the experience, Anne said, “I felt so sick and so unprepared. I went along, and I was just myself—I enjoyed it enormously. That was my very first foray into this bizarre world.”
Embracing The Spotlight
The newfound attention did wonders for Anne’s confidence. She is now preparing for a significant fashion show at Victoria Square’s ‘Park and Stride’ this autumn. The public’s response to her story has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people—especially older individuals—expressing how much her journey has inspired them.
“I was once stopped in a coffee shop,” Anna recalled. “This lady said, ‘Are you Anne?’ She told me I’d brought a smile to her face. For some people who’ve spoken to me, they love seeing an older person being given a platform.”
A Model For All Ages
Despite her lifelong shyness, Anne’s foray into modeling has given her a new lease on life. “I’ve been absolutely overjoyed by the amount of older people who stop and say things to me,” she shared. “They say it’s ‘great to see someone our age, who’s been spotted for standing out.’ I just think it’s great that an older woman is getting so much good publicity.”
Anne’s journey from a shy retiree to a celebrated model is a great example of the impact stepping outside one’s comfort zone can have. Her story proves that life doesn’t stop at 70 and that new adventures can come when least expected. As Anne continues to shine in the spotlight, she remains an inspiration for many, showing that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
References:
Belfast Live: ‘Shy’ Belfast pensioner becomes modelling sensation at 70 after chance encounter on the street
Express: ‘I was a shy pensioner – now I’m a 70-year-old model proving it’s never too late’
ACA Models: Anne Flanagan
Model Strangers on Instagram
