MIRIAM MATTOVA — Strength and Independence

In today’s interview, we’re thrilled to explore the remarkable journey of Miriam Mattova. Known for her blend of beauty and intellect, Miriam has overcome significant challenges with resilience and independence. We’ll discuss her career milestones, including her success in the fashion industry and advocacy for social causes. Join us as we uncover the inspiring story of a woman whose journey combines personal growth with a powerful commitment to social change.

White dress — Ronny Kobo , Jewelry — Cartier

Miriam, looking at you and knowing your success, I want to exclaim: beauty is a great power. But you are also an incredibly smart woman. This is a superpower! Can you tell us about a moment in your career when you had to show maximum resilience and independence?

 Thank you for the compliments, Marie Claire. I am very honored!

Resilience and independence have been crucial qualities throughout my career, and several moments have shaped me into the woman I am today.

One of the first challenges I had to overcome was during my early studies. In high school and university, many teachers and professors didn’t believe in my abilities, leading to numerous difficulties. Being underestimated due to my appearance created unwanted obstacles, and I had to demonstrate resilience and independence by putting in twice as much effort as other students and colleagues. When unexpected challenges like these arose, it was essential for me to respond calmly and effectively, which wasn’t always easy given my Taurus personality. Handling these situations involved taking risks and proactively seeking new opportunities, demonstrating my independence to my professors and gradually building trust in my professional skills. This experience forced me to adapt quickly, knowing I would have to work twice as hard to prove myself. Taking on these challenges required significant learning and growth, which shaped my independence.

Lastly, managing work-life balance itself requires resilience and independence. It has always been important for me to set boundaries and prioritize my personal needs and well-being. I believe that if I am not happy and in good health, I cannot help those I love around me.

Nude skirt and top — Ronny Kobo , Shoes — Steve madden , Jewelry — Cartier

inning beauty pageants and earning a doctorate degree helped you become more confident and independent, influencing your career and personal development. What transformations did you undergo because of this? When did you truly feel your superpower?

Like everyone, I have gone through various metamorphoses in my life. Some changes were more significant than others, revolving around my lifestyle choices, health conditions, inner qualities, and personal growth, shaping me into the woman I am today. After my studies, I felt a responsibility to give back to platforms in need, which gave my life great meaning.

With a passion for giving back, I developed stronger personal beliefs and values in my Jewish heritage. My goal was to bring more insight into the causes of anti-Semitism and how it affects and challenges the Jewish community. This reevaluation of my priorities sparked a new interest in learning more about my heritage and Jewish studies.

When did I truly feel my superpower? It’s a hard question. As I grew emotionally, physically, and intellectually, I found my inner happiness and strength to help others deal with anti-Semitism. Speaking up after the events of October 7th was especially important and made me realize that people should not struggle in silence. I know that if I can influence or help even one person through social media, it’s a success, as every life matters in this world. In other words, I want people to see me as the change that I wish to see in the world.

Orange dress — YSL , Earrings — Versace, Bracelets — Cartier

Can you share an example of when you successfully used your platform to advocate for important social issues? What words do you hear from women who owe their spiritual growth to you?

I use my platform to advocate for two important causes in my life that are very near and dear to me.

As a Jewish model and the granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, my heritage has profoundly influenced my advocacy work. I am committed to two causes close to my heart: combating antisemitism and promoting mental health support.

Firstly, my Jewish heritage inspires me to speak out against the rising tide of antisemitism worldwide. It’s heartbreaking to see so many young people suffering both mentally and physically due to this prejudice. I use my voice to remind everyone that, even as a minority, we are here for each other, offering unwavering support and solidarity.

As an ambassador for Israel Friends, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the men and women of Israel and the Jewish community worldwide, I am actively engaged in combating antisemitism and promoting PTSD and trauma therapy. Our organization tirelessly provides critical resources and support, focusing on mental health services for those affected by conflict. To date, Israel Friends has delivered over 2,800 hours of PTSD and trauma therapy to survivors, first responders, and families impacted by the October 7th massacre. Through our partnership with Healthy Mind and the Ministry of Health, we have significantly reduced the waiting period for assistance from six months to just one week. This Tele-Health service ensures that both children and adults can receive the help they need, no matter where they are. Sharing our mission and achievements through my platform has been incredibly fulfilling, as it raises awareness and encourages others to join our cause.

Like many, I have faced numerous challenges in life, and with the support of my family and friends, I understand the importance of maintaining good mental health. This personal experience drives my support for IPcko, a Slovak organization founded in 2012 that helps children and young adults in crisis situations. The professionals and volunteers at IPcko dedicate their free time to provide affordable support and acceptance while maintaining the anonymity of those they help. They offer a range of tools, both online and offline, and continuously develop new methods to assist those in need. To date, IPcko helps an average of more than 3,000 clients every month and has saved over 1,000 young lives each year.

Bringing awareness to projects like these is very important to me because they are dear to my heart. If I have the power to do the right thing for the right reason at the right time, it is, in my opinion, the greatest influence I can have on our society. Through my advocacy, I often hear from women who attribute their spiritual and personal growth to the stories and support shared on my platform. They express gratitude for the sense of community and the strength they derive from knowing they are not alone in their struggles. This feedback fuels my passion and commitment to continue using my platform for positive change. If these people then pay it forward, it is an expense we all can afford and one that humanity can’t afford to live without.

Purple dress — Ronny Kobo, earrings — Dior, Shoes — Christian Louboutin

What principles and values do you consider key to success and self-sufficiency in life and career? How important is personal growth and self-improvement to you in the context of your success?

I consider several principles and values key to success. Integrity—acting with honesty and honor in all situations—especially being reliable and trustworthy, sets an important example for the new generation that often lacks this principle.

Resilience, particularly in the fashion industry, is crucial. The ability to recover from setbacks and adapt to change can be challenging, so having a strong support group is essential. I am very thankful for my strong family that always backs me up, no matter what decisions I make in life.

Another important value my parents instilled in me is discipline—the ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and follow through on commitments. This value taught me the importance of prioritizing education and placing the fashion industry second. It was a hard decision, but looking back, it was crucial. I have learned that if you are destined to do something in life, it will wait for you. Because of this decision, I can educate the younger generation on causes that are dear to me and articulate them correctly.

Personal growth and self-improvement are vital to my success, which has not come easily. All the values I mentioned above have contributed to my personal growth. Importantly, I have learned the significance of accountability and taking responsibility for all my actions and decisions, regardless of the consequences.

black dress — YSL.

The unwavering support of your family is one of the key factors in your development as an independent person. What stories of strong women from your family have inspired you the most?

Yes, the unwavering support of my family plays a critical role in my development as an independent person. Family support in my life takes many different forms, from emotional to practical help, especially as I often travel. Emotional support has been a crucial part of my development, shaping me into the woman I am today.

The encouragement and motivation my parents provided, telling me that if I worked hard, I could reach for the stars, made me believe in myself. Their guidance and sharing of their experiences and knowledge shaped my decisions. However, I must also acknowledge that I had to take full responsibility for my own development and growth. I sought out opportunities for learning and growth, and made sound decisions that align with my values and goals, even if it sometimes meant learning from my mistakes.

In my family, we have a whole line of strong women who have inspired me in different ways.

To start, I must say I am a strong woman because two strong women in my family played important roles in raising me. Behind me is another great woman, my amazing grandmother. She is the strongest person I know, having survived the horrors of the Terezin concentration camp. What inspires me most about her is her strength and positivity, which taught me to dream big, reach for the stars, and never give up. Her inspiring story, where she lost her father and many other family members, motivates me to work even harder to build my platform and share her story so that history never repeats itself.

Lastly, my grandmother’s significance in my life is enormous. She is not only my support system but also a person who passed on valuable life lessons to me. She taught me the importance of being a strong woman and my role in my life’s journey.

Once again, I have to say that my grandmother is a strong role model in our family. Demonstrating resilience, kindness, and compassion, she serves as a source of guidance and wisdom. Her importance should not be underestimated, and she is a great influence on our lives.

pink dress — Ronny Kobo, Shoes- Christian Louboutin. Jewelry — Cartier

How do you navigate societal expectations and stereotypes associated with a career in the fashion industry that you don’t intend to pursue?

This is a challenging question because I’ve always been someone who follows the rules. However, I believe it’s crucial to stay true to myself and my own values and interests. I would never let societal expectations dictate my choices or decisions. For me, pursuing a career path that feels right means standing firmly as a proud Jewish model. In both society and the fashion industry, Jewish models are a minority, so it’s important to represent well. When faced with misconceptions about this or what I represent, I make it a point to clarify and dispel any misunderstandings.

Embracing diversity as a strength, rather than being concerned about societal expectations or stereotypes, is very important to me. The fashion industry and modeling are among the many fields that offer opportunities to diverse individuals, which I truly appreciate.

Team Credits : 

Hair: Daneil Fiorio 

Makeup: Emma Redfield 

Styling: Marina Raymar

Photographer: Mollie Pie