Marina Viazankova. Coat, gloves and shoes, Viva Vox. Tights, Calzedonia. Earrings and bracelet, Vintage Dream.
Being crowned Miss Grand Belarus 2022, and then competing in Miss Grand International 2022, were more than just a pageant experience for Marina Viazankova. It was a defining milestone in her career. With a passion for modeling ignited in childhood, she turned the competition into a platform for greater recognition in the fashion industry. Now, Marina is leveraging her pageant success to collaborate with top designers, appear on magazine covers, and pursue her ultimate goal: becoming a fashion industry icon and launching her own clothing brand.
Trenchcoat, Viva Vox. Bra, Le Journal lntime. Shoes, Le Silla. Tights, Falke.
HBZVN: Marina, I understand that you have been involved in modeling since a young age. Could you tell me what inspired you to pursue a career in this field, and how you started your journey in the industry?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: Becoming a model has been a dream of mine since early childhood. I was inspired by famous models and wanted to be like them. I started my journey with my first modeling contract in China, after which I began to receive invitations to other countries. Although the first trip was difficult, I decided to continue because I enjoy working in this field and want to show my beauty to the world.
Coat, Rogov. Bodysuit and leggings, Flashin. Shoes, Principe di Bologna. Earrings, Vintage Dream.
HBZVN: Working with various modeling agencies in Asia has surely provided you with a variety of experiences. Could you share with me how these experiences have shaped your understanding of the fashion world?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: The clothing market in Asia is very developed, and I work there daily. I have gained a lot of experience through my work there. This experience has made it clear to me that the job is difficult but interesting, and that I want to establish myself as a model in the European market as well.
Jacket and shorts, Masterpeace. Shoes, Le Silla. Earrings, Vintage Dream.
HBZVN: As a model, I’m sure you’ve faced numerous challenges. Can you tell me about some of the biggest obstacles you encountered in your early years and how you overcame them?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: Yes, I have faced some difficulties, but they are all part of the working process. Sometimes we had to wear uncomfortable shoes and it was hard to work all day. We had to share an apartment with many other models, and sometimes there were conflicts and arguments. Often, the food we brought to work was not very good, but we had no other choice. There were times when the photo studio was cold and we had to take off our swimsuits, or when it was hot and we had to remove our warm jackets.
Jacket, Viva Vox. Necklace, Element47.
HBZVN: Competing in Miss Grand Belarus 2022, then Miss Grand International 2022, was a significant milestone for you, wasn’t it? What motivated you to take part in this pageant, and what were your goals for participating?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: I entered the competition only to win, because I knew it could bring me great popularity, which is my main goal.
Jumpsuit, Yvon.
HBZVN: Reflecting on your own journey, what advice would you offer to aspiring models or young women who are considering entering beauty pageants?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: My advice would be to read a lot of different books, practice walking in heels regularly, increase your confidence, and of course, take care of your health and appearance.
Jacket, skirt, and shoes, Viva Vox. Earrings, Vintage Dream.
HBZVN: Considering the rapidly changing landscape of fashion, how do you plan to adapt and grow as a model in the future? What are your long-term goals for your career in this industry?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: I plan to collaborate with international designers in Europe and continue shooting for magazine covers. I also want to participate in the Miss International competition and win.
Corset, Masterpeace. Shorts, Viva Vox. Tights, Calzedonia. Shoes, Le Silla.
HBZVN: Beyond your modeling and competition experiences, what other passions or interests do you pursue in your personal life? How do these activities contribute to your overall well-being and success?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: Every day, I do sports, especially swimming, which helps me stay in great shape and maintain my health and beauty. In addition, I read a variety of literature and am currently studying design at a school, as I plan to open my own clothing store.
Dress, Yvon. Shoes, Prada. Earrings, Vintage Dream.
HBZVN: Finally, can you share some strategies you use to maintain balance between your career and personal life, and manage stress and promote your well-being?
MARINA VIAZANKOVA: The most important thing for me is to always stay positive, as our thoughts determine whether things will turn out well or not. I try not to think about the negative. It’s crucial to learn how to manage time and prioritize tasks. My family supports me and helps me cope with stress, providing the necessary support.
Photo: Alena Nikiforova @sunny_blossom.
Star: Marina Viazankova @_marinaviz_.
Light: Vitaly @vi.chizhik.
Style: Olga Romanenkova @creation_13.
Style Assistant: Polina Knyazeva @kp-s-.
MUA: Anna Minaeva @anna_minaeva_pro.
Hair: Viola Pyak @viola_pyak.
Video: Uroven (UVN.)
Video Assistant: Taramtaram.
Sound: Cactus Jack Records (Jackboys.)
Producers: Valentina Gurova @valentinagurova; Cory Tran @corycoutureproductions.
Co-Producer: Nikolay Gurov @n_gurov.
Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam
