In the elegant city of Munich, where classical architecture meets contemporary fashion, I sat down with Annabella, a multifaceted talent whose journey from Miss Germany 2019 to environmental advocate captures the evolution of modern pageantry and modeling. The elegant café where we meet seems a fitting backdrop for someone who has graced numerous fashion magazines and runways, yet there’s an approachable warmth to her presence that immediately puts one at ease.
From her earliest memories, Annabella was drawn to the allure of fashion and glamour. As a young girl, she would eagerly anticipate each new issue of fashion magazines, poring over the pages with dreams of one day being part of that world. “I remember spending hours looking at those magazines, imagining myself in those beautiful dresses,” she reminisces with a gentle laugh. “It was more than just the clothes – it was the whole world of creativity and expression that captivated me.”
Swimwear, Nora Chantre. Jewel, Weyler.
“It all started when I was scouted for Miss Germany,” she recalls, a competition that would become her gateway into the fashion and entertainment industry. The experience proved to be more than just a stepping stone to modeling; it opened doors to deeper purpose, particularly when she went on to represent Germany in Miss Earth 2020. This unexpected turn of events would later shape not only her career but her entire worldview.
Annabella Fleck: The artist behind the crown
Swimwear, Claudia Saer. Jewel: Weyler
Behind the glamorous facade lies a disciplined artist shaped by years of rigorous training. Annabella’s background at the prestigious ballet academy in Munich and her performances with the Bavarian State Ballet instilled in her a level of discipline that continues to serve her well in her modeling career. “Dance has always been my form of freedom,” she shares, her eyes lighting up as she speaks about her current love for bachata and salsa. “The discipline of ballet taught me perfectionism, but Latin dance taught me to feel joy in movement.”
Dress, MAX & Co. Kimono, MAX & Co. Accessories, MAX & Co.
Despite her busy schedule traversing the globe for photoshoots, she makes time for her artistic pursuits. Whether it’s playing the piano in a quiet moment between shoots, singing or doing different types of dance on her hotel room: “These moments keep me grounded,” she explains. “They remind me of who I am beyond the titles and the camera flashes.”
As the oldest of three siblings, Annabella learned early on about responsibility. These family ties remain a crucial anchor in her life, helping her maintain authenticity in an industry often criticized for its emphasis on perfection. “My siblings don’t see me as Miss Germany or a model – to them, I’m just their sister. That’s incredibly valuable.” Munich, her home base, has played a significant role in shaping her personal aesthetic. “Munich is Germany’s most elegant city,” she reflects, and this elegance is evident in her own sophisticated style, which blends classical refinement with contemporary trends.
A voice for environmental change
Pamela, Karl Lagerfield. Swimwear, Claudia Saer. Kimono, MAX & Co. Jewel, Weyler.
Her achievement as the first German finalist in Miss Earth in two decades marked a pivotal moment in her career and personal philosophy. “The experience completely transformed my perspective on environmental issues,” she explains with genuine passion. “Suddenly, I realized that my platform could be used for something much bigger than myself.” Today, she continues to champion sustainable living, using her influence to promote environmental consciousness among her followers, friends, and family.
The transformation from beauty queen to environmental advocate hasn’t always been smooth sailing. “People sometimes have preconceptions about beauty pageant winners,” she admits. “They don’t expect us to be passionate about environmental issues or to have depth beyond our appearance. Breaking those stereotypes has been both challenging and rewarding.”
Swimwear, Claudia Saer. Jewel, Weyler.
She finds her balance in nature, seeking peace in the serenity of beaches and forests, far from the camera flashes and runway lights. These moments in nature reinforce her commitment to environmental protection and sustainable living. Looking ahead, Annabella is expanding her horizons beyond modeling and environmental advocacy. She’s currently taking acting classes, eager to explore new forms of artistic expression. “Acting feels like a natural progression,” she explains. “It’s another way to tell stories and make an impact.”
Annabella Fleck’s advice for aspiring beauty queens
When asked about advice for aspiring models and pageant contestants, her response is both simple and powerful:
“If there’s a will, there’s a way. If you truly want it, have courage and take the chance!”
She emphasizes that success in the industry requires more than just physical beauty – it demands dedication, authenticity, and a sense of purpose.
Swimwear, Nora Chantre. Jewel, Weyler.
Swimwear, Nora Chantre. Jewel, Weyler.
What stands out most about Annabella is not just her achievements or her beauty, but her commitment to growth and purpose. From the disciplined world of ballet to the competitive sphere of international pageantry, and now to environmental advocacy and acting, she embodies the modern renaissance woman who uses her platform for meaningful impact. In an industry often criticized for its superficiality, Annabella represents a new generation of models and beauty queens who bring depth, purpose, and authenticity to their roles.
As our interview concludes, it’s clear that this is just the beginning of Annabella’s journey. With her unique blend of artistic talent, environmental passion, and genuine desire to make a difference, she’s poised to continue breaking stereotypes and inspiring change in both the fashion industry and environmental activism.
Swimwear, Claudia Saer. Jewel, Weyler.
**Creative Team**
Model: Annabella Fleck – @annabellafleck
Photographer: Jose Urbano – @joseurbanophoto
MUAH: Allison Tregarthen @Allisonmakeupstyle
Stylist: Allison Tregarthen @Allisonmakeupstyle
Location: NUMA Beach @numabeachmallorca
PR: WaveMags Agency @wavemags
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
