Meet Manuela

At 62, Manuela Braun describes herself as being in the happiest phase of her life. She has embraced freedom, independence, and a renewed sense of self. Her journey to this point, however, was anything but simple. It was shaped by years of dedication, challenges, and ultimately the courage to change.

For decades, Manuela balanced a successful career with the responsibilities of marriage, motherhood, and caring for her parents. From the outside, it looked like she had it all: a thriving job, a home she had built as part of her retirement plan, and the ability to manage everything at once. Yet beneath the surface, she felt unappreciated and unloved. After enduring personal health struggles, including spinal surgeries and skin cancer, and later the loss of her mother, she began questioning her own happiness.

Manuela’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and inspiration. She is not the same woman she was five years ago. Today, she is more confident, more self-aware, and ready to pursue her path as a model with passion and belief in her success.

Her message is clear: it is never too late to begin again. Happiness lies within reach when we trust ourselves, take bold steps, and embrace change.

Healing Can Happen at Any Time

Inspired by this powerful story of resilience, healing, and the profound importance of connection? Sign up for the next 40 Over 40 campaign with Starup Photo and Charlotte Starup, and allow us to capture the beauty of your journey and the essence of what truly matters to you now!