Ukrainian model hails Kurdistan Fashion Week

Interview by Hiwa Salah

Aloyna Buzina is a Ukrainian model who participated in Erbil’s glitzy Kurdistan Fashion Week earlier this month. She spoke to Rudaw about the event and her love of Kurdish clothing.

Rudaw: How long have you been working as a fashion model?

  Modeling is my whole life  

Buzina: I have abundant experience as a fashion model, and have been doing modeling officially for the past seven years. Modeling is my whole life. Modeling and design were my childhood dreams. Modeling has been part of my life for a while. Currently, I am the top model in Ukraine.

Did you study modeling or are you self-taught?

There are very few universities that offer modeling degrees. Only Milano, London, and New York offer modeling degrees. But there are schools where you can learn modeling, but I unfortunately couldn’t go to such a school. I became a model on the basis of my own experience and efforts. Years of experience have become a school for me.

What are the conditions for being a model in your country?

I think height and weight are not important for a model. The important thing is to do well in your area. The most important thing for a model is self-confidence, feeling you are the most successful person. In addition, you should not fear displaying yourself in front of people. You can never achieve your goals if you fear. That is why you should always consider yourself better, and say to yourself that you can do it. You should show your power and abilities.

What do you think of Erbil?

I was very happy to be in Kurdistan. My modeling colleagues and I did well in Kurdistan Fashion Week. Erbil is a very nice place and attractive to tourists. I respect the people of Erbil.

Did you know anything about Kurdistan prior to coming here?

I read about any place. I read much about the history of Kurdistan and its places. I got to know many good things about the people of Kurdistan, which is a very nice place for me.

What is the difference between Kurdish and Ukrainian models?

Kurdish models are very pretty, but local. Our models are more experienced and professional. I commend Kurdish models. I hope they continue what they are doing and produce better work.

You wore Kurdish clothes in Kurdistan Fashion Week. What did you think?

I am impressed by Kurdish clothing, which is very special and beautiful to me. I was excited to model Kurdish clothing several times. The colors and forms of Kurdish clothes are very beautiful and attractive.

What other international fashion shows have you participated in?

I have been modeling for over seven years in dozens of countries, in China, Lebanon, Germany, France, Spain, Russia, Azerbaijan, United Arab Emirates, and some other countries. I have modeled several times in each country and different cities.

Which country stands out in your memory?

I can’t say one country was the best. Each country has its own culture and distinctive clothing. It was an experience and I benefitted from it. I like all of these countries and I have good memories with them. I am proud of them.

You worked with Kurdish designers. What do you think of their standard?

Many designers produced good work, especially Mr Goran. His designs were very beautiful and attractive. In general, I am very optimistic about the future of Kurdish designers. I hope they work harder to be more professional with their designs.

What would tell your friends about Kurdistan when you go back home?

I would first tell them about the Erbil Citadel and other historical places in the city. I will also tell them about modeling, clothing, the culture, peoples’ kindness and hospitality in Kurdistan. I will tell them about the courage and bravery of the Kurds. I will tell them the Kurds can succeed in doing anything because they work passionately.

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