MODEL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
THE MODELING STANDARD
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
TETIANA
What is your official model name?
My original name is Tetiana; on Instagram I’m
@tetianamodellinguk
How did you get into modelling?
As long as I can remember, I've always been drawn to the fashion world. When I was little, I would stay up late watching Fashion TV, dreaming of one day walking the runway myself.
At 17, that dream started to become a reality when I enrolled in a modelling school in
Ukraine. At the time, it cost $200, which was a huge amount of money for my family.
My mum and my aunt believed in me and paid for the course. I'll never forget that incredible gesture - their support meant everything to me, and I'm still so grateful for
it.
Where are you currently located?
I have lived in the UK for 11 years now.
What are your top modelling accomplishments?
Ukrainian Fashion Week,
winning Miss Swimsuit UK 2025 pageant, top 30 in Swimsuit USA, photo campaign
for Hawaiian Tropics, commercial campaign for swimwear brand Lucini London,
working with world-top photographers and videographers, being featured in music
videos and movies.
What publications have you been featured in?
Which brands, designers, or companies have you worked with as a model or
brand ambassador?
Lucini London, Passion bikini by JK, Dot’s Frocks, Oksana
Latt
I’ve been recently featured in the latest edition of Elite Magazine
with Swimsuit USA Queen Rachel Pizzolato along with other gorgeous models.
Have you been involved in any other media such as movies, TV shows, music
videos, podcasts, or web series?
I’ve been featured in 2 movies filmed in the UK,
had music videos shot in Ukraine and a podcast with Rory O’Connor
(@Themodelcast_podcast)
Any events you participated in or hosted recently that you'd like to discuss?
The main event I'd like to mention is the Miss Swimsuit UK 2026 Finals, where I will be crowning the next Queen on 9th August. It's a very special moment for me, as I'll be returning not only as the reigning titleholder but also as a member of the judging panel.
This year, I'll also be part of the official glam team, doing makeup for the contestants in my new role as a professional makeup artist. It's incredibly rewarding to combine my passion for the pageant industry with my makeup career.
What is your primary of focus?
My main goal is to become a versatile model who can work across a variety of industries and styles. I enjoy exploring different areas of modelling and challenging myself with new opportunities.
At the moment, I'm interested in developing in high fashion and commercial modelling. Walking in fashion shows has always been a passion of mine, so I'd love to do more runway work and continue growing as a model.
Along the way, I also caught the pageant bug. Competing has given me confidence, discipline, and a platform to grow. After completing my reign, I'm now looking for the next pageant that feels like the right fit for me.
Swimsuits seem to be your thing, is that your favourite category of photoshoot?
Yes, definitely! The beach is my happy place, so swimsuit shoots feel very natural to me. Add a beautiful bikini, a stunning sunset, and a photoshoot, and I'm completely
in my element.
Best modelling experiences?
My best modelling experience so far has been
representing the UK internationally at the Miss Swimsuit USA Finals. It was a huge personal achievement and an incredibly proud moment for me. The experience gave me the opportunity to work with talented photographers and creatives from around the world.
Some of my favourite modelling memories come from the shoots with my boyfriend Zac. When we create together, something really magical happens. For me, it’s not just being in from of the camera – it’s about connection, creativity and magic.
Bad modelling experiences?
My most difficult modelling experience was being body-shamed during an assignment with a modelling agency in Ukraine. It was a very painful and challenging moment for me, but it fuelled my determination to continue pursuing my dream. It taught me the importance of not allowing other people’s opinions to define my journey.
Another one – failing during a stage interview. I have always had a fear of public speaking, and it was a very challenging experience for me, but it also showed me exactly what I need to work on. It’s my motivation to grow now.
When it's all said and done what do you hope to have accomplished?
I hope to become someone who inspires other women to believe that it is never too late to pursue their dreams, to pursue their passions. I hope to have created opportunities for myself in modelling and beauty, while using my experience to encourage other women to step outside their comfort zone and believe in themselves.
In closing, is there anything you would like to talk about that we haven't asked about?
I think the one thing I’d like to leave you with is that my journey is still unfolding. I don’t believe that age or fear should ever stop us from pursuing something new. The hardest part is simply taking the first step; you just need that courage to begin.
So, my message is: don’t wait for the perfect moment; take the first step and
enjoy the journey!
