THEN: In the December 2010/January 2011 issue of Harper’s Bazaar UK, supernova Natalia Vodianova was celebrated as Woman of the Year. Photographer Michelangelo di Battista captured the Golden Girl wearing Alexander McQueen Couture, Armani Prive, Givenchy Haute Couture and more.

The Harper’s Bazaar accolade marked a pivotal moment in Vodianova's career, highlighting not just her success as a supermodel but also her unwavering commitment to charitable causes. Born in Russia, Vodianova's journey from humble beginnings to international stardom became an inspiration for many in the world of fashion and beyond.

Her recognition brought attention to her work beyond the runway, in particular her dedication to the Naked Heart Foundation, which aims to provide children with safe and inspiring playgrounds. By receiving this honor, Vodianova's role as a changemaker was cemented; she used her platform to advocate for social issues, seamlessly blending her professional pursuits with personal passions for philanthropy and also business ventures in the digital space for nonprofits.

NOW: Fourteen years later as we share this never posted on AOC fashion story, the Natalia Vodianova’s Naked Heart Foundation continues in an expanded role helping people with disabilities and special needs in Russia. The generosity of family, friends and fans of this fashion ‘supernova’ have built 130 inclusive play facilities for children across the Russian nation.

Fast forward again to 2024, and Natalia Vodianova is married to French businessman and LVMH executive Antoine Arnault. Their family includes five children, three from Vodianova’s first marriage to Justin Portman, and two with Arnault.

The supernova lives life at warp speed, but also makes time for a unique assignment as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA], working to end the global stigma around menstruation. To find someone of her stature to take on this culturally complex and humiliating for so many poor women topic says much about the woman Natalia Vodianova has become.