The summer is nearing its end but the warm midday sun still gently caresses the people roaming about in the heart of Oulu. Anna-Sofia Ali-Sisto, The winner of the fourth season of Finland’s Next Top Model, has arrived at the trendy café on the Rotuaari pedestrian street precisely at the agreed time and offers to pay for her own beverage. In Anna-Sofia’s mind, it is easier to cope with the attention and media coverage by staying humble and not letting the success affect who you truly are.
“It’s essential to remember that the model always carries ultimate responsibility. No matter how much you get pulled into a million different directions, you need to listen to your own head. I’ve also learned how to deal with various situations where no one is there to offer help.” A responsible disposition and remarkable ability to handle stress have clearly accelerated this beautiful young woman’s path toward independence.
The reality formats in modern television offer anyone the opportunity to rise to the top. Anna-Sofia, too, had some initial problems making herself the centre of attention. “I’m a little shy by nature but that hasn’t stopped me from being successful. There will always be criticism, so you need to be able to take the feedback the right way.”
The new top model, who will head for New York or Paris at the end of the year, knows that success does not happen on its own. Every opportunity must be seized and one’s own visions must be marketed. “In casting events, for example, I want to leave as unique an impression as possible, so that people will remember me.” In addition to the gorgeous looks of a super model, Anna-Sofia has been blessed with a refreshingly determined and open-minded personality.
The stereotypes of the modelling world, such as drugs and an unhealthy diet, are not part of Anna-Sofia Ali-Sisto’s lifestyle. “I’ve never tried drugs and I don’t smoke. The photo shoots are my job, and I wouldn't risk my career for any price. Healthy food and exercise are important parts of my life. I’ve always enjoyed nutritious meals, though it’s nice, of course, to treat yourself every once in a while.” Sounds like this level-headed young professional has found the happy medium.
Glowing with natural health, Anna-Sofia is a valuable asset to clothing brands in that models who devote themselves to their career also in terms of their lifestyle are few and far between. “Going to the gym and jogging have a definite positive effect on your looks and, as a result, improve your self-image. I like to spend my spare time in Finland with my boyfriend, family and dogs.”
Anna-Sofia is beginning her studies in the Clothing Design programme at the University of Lapland. Soon, her drawing hobby may be an essential element in her future profession. “I absolutely want to finish my studies and graduate no matter how long it takes. Actually, working as a model has already been a benefit to my studies because I’ve had the opportunity to see how various fashion designers work first-hand. It’s extremely inspiring.”
Anna-Sofia Ali-Sisto, who is visibly enjoying every minute of her dream job, smiles and says she has always been partial to all things aesthetic. “For instance, I’ve picked up different perspectives during photo shoots that have then affected my everyday style. I favour ecological clothing and don’t really care for torn or worn-out clothes. I adore colours and soft tones. Ever since I was little, I’ve always been drawn to exceptionally beautiful things.”
During our conversation, Anna-Sofia gives the impression of being as vulnerable as any of us. This is precisely why she is so easily-relatable to all who are reaching for their dreams or going through the youth. The young model has succeeded in marketing herself as a product by trusting her natural characteristics. There is nothing fake about her, because she has resolutely walked her own path towards her dreams. At the end of the interview, Anna-Sofia cheerfully wishes me a wonderful summer and disappears into the busy street. She is a perfect example of the courteous and successful young generation.
