Liudmyla Tkachenko is a stunning Ukrainian model who is currently based in Los Angeles. She grew up in a picturesque town stretching in the western region of Ukraine. Ever since she was a little girl, she has always dreamed of becoming an international model someday. Unfortunately, the economic situation in Ukraine was bad at the time, and since she had no connections in the fashion industry – becoming an international model seemed like an almost impossible feat. But Liudmyla was persistent though, despite her situation, she was determined to turn her childhood dream into reality.
Liudmyla’s first taste of the modeling industry came in the form of a modeling contract that was offered to her to work somewhere in China. Although China has always been considered as one of the most dynamic, and vibrant countries in the world, moving to work in China can often seem daunting because of the language barrier and cultural differences. However, Liudmyla really wanted to make things work with her modeling career hence the reason why she felt that she needed a deeper cultural immersion in the Chinese ways for the sake of her career. She decided to hone her Chinese language skills first so she started taking Chinese language classes. Eventually, she came to the point that she was actually quite fluent in Mandarin.
Since working as a full-time model in China, She has appeared in several high-profile commercials and magazines in Asia. Liudmyla worked as a full-time model for a few years in Asia mainly around Hong Kong, China, and Thailand before deciding to move to the United States to further pursue her modeling career. When she moved to the United States in 2016, she didn’t speak a word of English which was tough because she had to start from the bottom again. She, therefore, decided to study English in a New York-based language school while pursuing her modeling career at the same time.
Liudmyla’s persistence eventually paid off when she started scoring one good gig after another. Since working as a model in New York, she has appeared several times in New York Fashion Week. She has walked for high-profile designers such as Dan Liu, Terraza, and Oxford Fashion, among others, and she has also done photoshoots for high-profile fashion magazines such as the L’Officiel magazine, Marie Claire, MD Trends magazine, Imaginary magazine, and Marjen magazine. Furthermore, she was involved in several catalog shoots as well as several exciting projects. Her photos from the New York Fashion Week shows have even been featured in Vogue, Elle, as well as Harper’s Bazaar.
After modeling for two years in New York, Liudmyla decided to try her luck at acting by moving to Los Angeles. Since moving to Los Angeles, she has appeared in a Nike commercial, as well as a few alcohol commercials, and she also scored a role in an upcoming film called “The Nowhere Inn.” The movie is set to premiere in the Sundance film festival 2020. Currently, Liudmyla is studying at an acting school called Beverly Hills Playhouse hoping that this can be her ticket to more projects in Hollywood.
Starting from a humble background, Liudmyla was initially faced with poverty as well as other problems, but she learned how to overcome all that fate threw at her. She moved forward with a single-minded determination to achieve success. Having reached her goal of becoming an international model, she’s definitely a classic example of the results of hard work and determination.
Sassy & Co recently caught up with Liudmyla to discuss her journey in the modeling/fashion world and here’s what went down:
How did you decide to be a professional model?
I actually decided to become a professional model after I did my first photoshoot. I felt that I really enjoyed modeling so I wanted to pursue my modeling career full-time. In terms of inspiration, top model Natalia Vodianova is who really inspires me. Her success story shows that hard work and dedication to your goal will eventually lead to success.
What was your first big break in the industry?
My first big break in the industry was in New York walking for designer Dan Liu at the NYFW 2018.
What is your dream modeling job?
A photoshoot for the cover of Vogue magazine.
If you weren’t a model, what would you do?
Definitely something around the entertainment industry.
How do you stay fit and healthy?
I work out every day and I also only eat healthy food.
What’s your beauty and exercise regime?
I like going to the spa, as well as getting massages and facials. I also work out every day by going to the gym, hiking, yoga, and meditation.
Is there much work around for models these days?
With the Coronavirus situation still happening, honestly, there’s not much model work happening. But slowly everything is starting to get back to normal and hopefully, soon there will be a lot more work.
How do you deal with all the traveling required to be a model? How do you cure jet-lag?
It’s very important to drink a lot of water and get some rest if you’re traveling. I usually cure my jet-lag by going to the gym right after I arrive in a new location.
When you’re not busy modeling, what are some of your favourite things to do?
I like to go hiking, swimming, paddle boarding, and reading books. I also like getting massages and relaxing on the beach with a great book.
What are your favourite beauty products? what’s always carried in your purse?
The skincare line “Origins” is my favorite one.
What is your go-to everyday outfit?
Shorts and t-shirt are my go-to everyday outfit.
Given the competitiveness and the speed of the industry, how do you ensure you stand out?
Always be yourself and know how valuable you are. Self-love is very important.
