By: Alva Ree
Today, we enjoyed speaking with Anya, a talented runway model based in Los Angeles. Anya shares her journey into the fashion world, her life as a mother, and how she manages to balance it all with a smile.
Q: Hi Anya! Can you tell us a little about yourself and your modeling career?
Anya: Hi! I’m Anya, a runway model currently living in Los Angeles. I’ve been in LA for almost 12 years now, and modeling has become a big part of my life, but it wasn’t a planned career path—it all started with my daughter!
Q: What initially brought you to Los Angeles and made you stay?
Anya: I came to California through various student programs and immediately fell in love with the city. I’ve always enjoyed traveling and living in different countries, but when I became pregnant, I realized I needed a stable place with good prospects for my child. Plus, I’m a colossal surfing enthusiast, and LA has some of the great waves on the continent!
Q: So, how did your modeling career begin? Was it something you always dreamed of?
Anya: Funny enough, it all started with my daughter, Rachel Shevchenko. When she was just one year old, we signed her with a modeling agency in LA, and she quickly became quite successful. I started to think, “If my daughter got her looks from me, maybe I should try modeling too!” At that time, I was a single mom, and a traditional 9-to-5 job wasn’t an option. Modeling offered a flexible schedule that allowed me to be present for my daughter while exploring a new career. Turns out, it’s never too late to start something new!
Q: What is it like modeling alongside your daughter? How do you balance work and motherhood?
Anya: It’s a lot of fun! Rachel and I often get cast for jobs together as a mother-daughter duo. It feels more like a shared adventure than a job. I love that modeling lets me work intensively for a few days and then have time off with her. On shoot days, a nanny helps out, and sometimes, I bring Rachel with me, especially on trips to New York for fashion weeks. The flexibility is a huge advantage—I couldn’t manage all her castings and modeling gigs without a traditional job.
Q: You look fantastic! Do you follow a strict diet or fitness routine?
Anya: Thank you! Over the years, I’ve developed my approach to staying healthy. I eat two meals daily, focusing on fruits, vegetables, meat, and seafood. I drink only water, fresh juices, and my morning coffee—no alcohol or smoking. Exercise is a must, of course. My routine is more about consistency than strict dieting.
Q: What are some of your biggest dreams in the modeling industry?
Anya: I’d love to walk in a Victoria’s Secret fashion show and model for high-fashion brands like Versace, Burberry, Prada, and Gucci. I go to New York twice yearly for fashion week, and each visit feels like a step closer to my dream. New York is the fashion capital, and the opportunities there are incredible.
Photo Courtesy: Anna Shevchenko
Q: Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years?
Anya: Hopefully, it’s still on the runway! I’m also studying acting in college, which I hope to complete this year. I’d love to explore acting roles in the future. Who knows? Maybe I’ll swap the runway for the big screen!
Q: As a model, what are your three golden rules for success?
Anya: First, always be in a good mental place. Modeling isn’t just about looks—it’s about confidence and bringing your true self to each shoot. Second, don’t over-pose. Being natural and showing real emotions, even sad or excited, always looks better than forced expressions. And finally, beauty sleep is actual—8 to 9 hours every night is my secret weapon!
Q: You mentioned your love for surfing. Do you still find time for it with your busy schedule?
Anya: Absolutely! Surfing is my therapy. I always try to catch some waves, whether working or on a break. It keeps me grounded and recharges my energy.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring models, especially those who are also balancing motherhood?
Anya: Don’t be afraid to take a chance on yourself. Modeling is a world where flexibility can be your best friend, especially as a mom. It’s possible to do both if you create a lifestyle that works for you and your child. And remember, it’s never too late to start—sometimes, our biggest adventures begin when we least expect them!
Anya’s story is a beautiful reminder that success often comes from the courage to take a chance. Whether she’s riding the waves in LA or walking the runway in New York, Anya is proving that motherhood and modeling can go hand in hand, all while inspiring her daughter to follow her dreams.
Published by Jeremy S.
