Bazaar Arabia introduces a new term into the media lexicon, referring to supermodel Natalia Vodianova as a “true force of nature”, check; “model, philanthropist, tech entrepreneur”, triple-check; “real-life superwoman”, check. “Mega-mum” is a new descriptor — at least for AOC.

Vodianova’s five children are always part of her story. AOC has probably used “supermom”. In a digital media landscape that just grinds out the same words over and over again, AOC notices new ones; and — per Google search — it’s yours Bazaar Arabia. Congrats to Devinder Bains, author of the interview.

Let us digress no longer, reminding readers that Vodianova poses as a friend of the maison, in this Chaumet-sponsored fashion cover story for Bazaar Arabia’s December 2025 issue. Nour Bou Ezz styles the fashion story shot by Alvaro Gracia [IG]./ Hair by Ilham Mestour; makeup by Harold James

The Excitement of Transformation

Natalia V meets up with Bains in Paris. The supermodel has been in Doha to judge the Fashion Trust Arabia Awards, and also shoot this cover story – “effortlessly showcasing Chaumet jewels in a beautiful blush haze”.

“It’s this beauty of coming back to the country and every time seeing something new,” explains the supermodel and philanthropist. “Incredible works of art, new museums being envisioned or a new public garden open – it’s just constantly evolving. I really love Qatar. I find it very inspiring.”

On the list of new museums is the under-construction in the region is the Frank Ghery designed Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Museum. The world-famous architect passed on Friday at age 96, in an event that struck deeply into the hearts of the Arnault family, especially Bernard Arnault himself. AOC shares the LVMH chairman’s words about Gehry and his museums, ending with the yet-to-open, largest Guggenheim Museum in Abu Dhabi.

Newness Exists As Inspiration for All of Us

Natalia, who lives in Paris, sees the contrast in Doha with her own home.

“In Europe, everything has been here for centuries, which is beautiful as well, but there is this energy of new countries that are setting a new vision with new technologies, new artists, new architects and culture while respecting traditions and heritage, which I also appreciate.”

Nicknamed Supernova for her meteoric rise from poverty to become one of the world’s top supermodels and philanthropists, Natalia Vodianova never shies away from embracing her origins and life story. She’s also what AOC calls a “true grit woman” [TGW].

The Matriarchy In Action

In her interview, this very earnest woman — devoid of most pretensions — shares her story. [If you don’t know all the details, follow link in opening paragraphs of this post.] Much of Natalia V’s life was determined not only by the extreme poverty the family lived in, but by the abandonment of men.

Her father abandoned his family completely; and her step father also abandoned the family after the birth of her half-sister Oksana, who has cerebral palsy and severe autism. Her mother Larisa could have followed the custom in Russia of putting Oksana in an institution. She did not.

Natalia went to work in her mother’s fruit stall at age 11 and found herself bullied because of her sister’s medical condition. Experiencing extreme hunger as well, this young girl with a beautiful heart made a series of moves taking piano lessons from a neighbor for three years and then theater classes, which led her to enroll in a modeling school at age 16.

We all know where that decision landed her. It’s Vodianova who credits her family “matriarchy” for pulling her up and out of dire circumstances. It is an Anne word, but I don’t put ‘matriarchy’ in the mouths of other people.

UN Goodwill Ambassador

Her TGW status continues today in her totally-transformed life. Appointed in 2021 as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Population Fund [UNFPA], a priority for Vodianova is not officially as warm-hearted as the global vaccination of children.

Although with the Trump Administration shutting down USAID, she just might become a leading voice in that area. Bill Gates and Michael Bloomberg, have you met Natalia Vodianova?

Taboos Around Menstruation

A big priority in Vodianova’s life focuses on dismantling taboos around menstruation and promoting menstrual health, including banishment and confinement. This is now a top focus for the uber-successful supermodel.

It’s really something in my playbook when Bernard Arnault’s daughter-in-law, Mrs. Antoine Arnault, steps up as a leading voice to stop the banishment of women to huts while they are menstruating. Or not having access to sanitary supplies.

The Supernova is unfazed by standing up against this modern-day humiliation of women due to ancient taboos and religious beliefs. In fact, she believes she is uniquely positioned to take up the cause.

There are many reasons why Natalia Vodianova inspires AOC, but this one is top of the list. We send big love to Supernova. ~ Anne