Maria Sabova: From Slovakia to Global Runways – Her Story of Beauty & Resilience

Can you tell us bit about yourself? When and how did you get into modelling?

I started modeling at age of 14 attending portfolio shoot in Bratislava in Slovakia and then was flown to Vienna for a magazine shoot.

Who have been your biggest mentors in this industry and what is the best advice they have ever given you?

My biggest mentor was my agent and I always looked up to Paris Hilton . She’s not a traditional model but represents an archetype of iconic femininity, personal branding, and knowing how to be seen.

Another one is Paulina Porizkova. People have compared me to her. She’s a strong mentor figure energetically—European, elegant, outspoken about aging, beauty, and authenticity. Her career longevity and balance of intelligence and beauty mirror a path I resonate with.

What are the bits you don’t like or find challenging?

One of the more challenging parts is staying grounded and centered in an industry that often focuses on appearance and constant comparison. It takes a lot of inner work to stay true to yourself while still being adaptable to different creative visions. I’ve learned to turn that into a strength, but it definitely keeps me evolving. The pace can be intense, and sometimes it’s easy to lose your sense of self in all the noise. But I take that as a sign to realign and come back stronger.

What does beauty mean to you?

Beauty is the harmony between confidence and vulnerability. It’s the way someone carries themselves, how they light up a space without trying. Real beauty speaks before you say a word.

Having great skin for models is really important, What are your top three tips for keeping skin flawless?

Beauty truly starts within. Drink lots of mineral water, eat anti-inflammatory foods (like berries, leafy greens, omega-rich seeds), and support your gut with probiotics or herbal teas.

One of my other big tips is to fast once a year for 5 days sometimes longer it really cleanses you from inside and out and makes your skin glowing. Last but not least is stem cells injections and using stem cell based skincare every morning and nighttime.

What was your career path into this job?  Have you also worked outside the arts?

I also worked in event organization, fashion design and stem cell industry where and modeling blends fashion with beauty and you can express yourself authentically through social media so it makes a great platform to empower women.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I see myself fully thriving as a multidimensional woman—balancing a successful brand that inspires transformation, beauty, and self-love, while also continuing to express myself through modeling, wellness retreats, and maybe even acting. I see myself living between dream locations, working with people I love, and empowering other women to embody their magic. 

Everything I do will still be rooted in authenticity, freedom, and radiance. —building a global presence through brand partnerships, and possibly launching my own lifestyle or beauty line.

I see myself evolving as both a creative and an entrepreneur.

Have you noticed any changes in the industry? If so, what?

Yes. Definitely, the industry has changed a lot. Modeling is open to women of all ages and sizes now when back in the days when I was starting out it was unheard off. 

Also more casting happens online—via social platforms and AI scouting. Models can build full careers from their digital presence alone, often without traditional agency contracts.

This reshapes the definition of a model—from just physical attributes to who you are, how you connect, and the story you tell.