At the age of just fifteen, Manuela's work was discovered by Leïla Menchari, the renowned Director of Decoration at Hermès. Recognizing her artistic sense, Leïla encouraged her to pursue studies in design and to further cultivate her passion for illustration. In a personal letter, Leila meaningfully wrote: “Continue to find joy in it despite external pressures, for that is what endures and fuels your love of beauty”