Biography
Who is Natalia Vodianova?
Early life and family background
Natalia Vodianova was born in Gorky, Soviet Union, which is currently known as Nizhny Novgorod, Russia. She experienced a difficult childhood growing up in a low-income area of the city. To assist her mother with household finances, she spent time selling fruit on the street. Her family situation included two half-sisters, one of whom was adopted by a family in the United States, while the other lives with cerebral palsy and autism. This early exposure to the challenges faced by those with disabilities influenced her later commitment to advocacy.
She attended school in her hometown but faced social difficulties due to her family's financial situation. Her early experiences with poverty and caring for a sibling with specific needs shaped her perspective. These formative years eventually led to her later focus on creating inclusive environments for children facing similar hardships.
Modelling career path
At the age of sixteen, Natalia began pursuing a professional career in the fashion industry. After being spotted by a talent scout, she relocated to Paris and secured representation with the agency Viva Models. This move marked the start of an internationally recognized trajectory in fashion. She worked alongside prominent photographers such as Mario Testino and Annie Leibovitz, building a portfolio that included features in publications like Vanity Fair, Interview, and Vogue.
Beyond editorial work, she engaged in major commercial projects. In 2009, she launched a collaboration with the French lingerie company Etam, creating collections under her own label. She has also maintained long-term professional relationships with major luxury houses including Stella McCartney and Guerlain. Her consistent work in global advertising campaigns led financial publications like Forbes to frequently list her among the world's highest-paid models.
Acting and philanthropy
Natalia has expanded her career into film, securing roles in productions such as the 2010 movie Clash of the Titans and the 2012 film Belle du Seigneur. While continuing her work in fashion, she dedicated significant time to charitable efforts. Following the Beslan school hostage crisis, she established the Naked Heart Foundation. This organization focuses on building playgrounds and supporting social programs for children with special needs.
Her commitment to social causes extends to international organizations. In 2015, she helped create Elbi, a digital platform designed to facilitate charitable donations and engagement. She also serves as a member of the international board of directors for the Special Olympics. In 2021, the United Nations Population Fund appointed her as a goodwill ambassador to help bridge gaps between the technology and fashion industries.
Personal life
In 2001, she married British property heir Justin Portman. The couple had three children together before announcing their separation in 2011. Following this, she entered a relationship with Antoine Arnault, who is the CEO of the luxury brand Berluti and the son of LVMH founder Bernard Arnault. The couple has two sons together and married in 2020 at a Paris city council office. Natalia continues to reside in Paris and has frequently shared updates regarding her family life throughout her career.
Birthday and age
Natalia Vodianova was born on February 28, 1982, which makes Natalia 44 years old today. That birthday falls under the Pisces sign. Natalia shares the date with 37 other famous people.
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