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in your career and how you have overcome them? Kuzmina: The entertainment industry can be a wild ride, with highs that soar and lows that can be incredibly tough. I was lucky enough to be scouted at the young age of 15 and brought to Paris, but it took me a while to get cast because I was a shy teenager who was also struggling with anorexia. Yves Saint Laurent gave me a chance to perform in a show with all the supermodels when I was on the brink of giving up on my modeling career. As a teenager, it can be difficult to have a healthy self-image and self-worth, especially when your value is based on your appearance. This is why I developed an alter ego for my modeling editorials. I approached each job as if I was playing a character, considering who she was, what her background was, and why she was wearing her clothes a certain way in a particular moment. Over time, I learned to place my value on my inner qualities, which ultimately attracted more clients to hire me. I also struggled with finding my voice and yearning to be heard. But when my therapist suggested I try singing, I did, and I ended up being hired for a TV show called “I Can See Your Voice.” Today, I am writing this from a movie set where I am playing a singer. I have had to overcome many obstacles in my career, including being told I would never be able to leave Russia, or that I was too old at 23 to start acting. I also faced limitations like being told that pretty women can’t be funny. But I learned to not react to these limitations and to just keep working and being of service. Abras: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring actors and entertainers in Miami who are looking to make a name for themselves in the industry? Kuzmina: My advice would be to have something unique to offer, a skill or talent that sets you apart. It’s also important to understand your market and your marketing strategy. Have a pitch deck presentation ready to help your agents sell you, and know when to say no to work that doesn’t align with your values. Cultivate your uniqueness, and don’t be afraid to showcase what makes you different.