The North American Modeling Association was jointly formed by Canadian and American modeling and talent agencies in 1999.

It was felt, that models in particular, required some form of safety from unethical practices within the industry at National and International levels. It was further felt that there was a need to monitor licensing, advertising, representations towards models and fees charged, as well as the activities of satellite modeling companies.

N.A.M.A. members specifically acknowledge that it is the mandate of N.A.M.A. as a body to further enhance industry professionalism and ethics through the continuous sharing of knowledge and skills among its association members.