"The most important thing is to be yourself": interview with the winner of "Mrs. Planet Eurasia"

      September 26, 2025 09:00 Society

      A woman from Nizhny Novgorod, Ulyana Kotina, became the winner of the "Mrs. Planet Eurasia — 2025" contest, which took place in September in Crimea. Women from different regions of Russia participated in the competition: they presented creative performances and art costumes dedicated to their small homeland. A correspondent of NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" spoke with the grand prix winner and learned why she decided to take the stage, how her relationships with rivals developed, and why it is most important to remain yourself.

      — Ulyana, in June you received the title "Mrs. Volga Federal District" at the "Mrs. Nizhny Novgorod — 2025" contest. Now you represented our region at the all-Russian level. How did the preparation go?

      — I prepared a portfolio and a presentation of my social projects, because this contest is not only about beauty, but also about mercy, motherhood, and social activity. Each participant had to defend her initiatives and talk about good deeds. I also planned the art costumes. I want to thank designers Svetlana Kislova, Anna Batrakova and Natalya Zhbanknikova: for the contest we created four stunning dresses with accessories and headdresses.

      — What kind of relationships did you have with the other participants? Is there room for friendship, or is competition still stronger?

      — There was, of course, competition, but that's normal. I am sure that nobility and kindness should win. At the final I gave the girls my jewelry and cosmetics. And this is not about extra points, but about the attitude toward people. Fate always tests us: are we worthy of the title we bear.

      — How did your loved ones support you?

      — My mother, husband, children, friends, colleagues — everyone worried and helped! My husband went with me, and that was a huge joy. It would have been difficult to cope without support.

      — What turned out to be the most difficult stage, and what was the easiest?

      — The rehearsals were the hardest — often until midnight. My feet ached, fatigue and stress accumulated. You had to keep your back straight all the time, smile, stay in shape, with makeup and hair done. Every day was like an obstacle race: photo shoots, filming, a charity event, defending social projects… And the final became a real celebration. On stage I felt confident and received incredible emotions.

      — Share the beauty secret that helped you become the best.

      — The most important thing is to be yourself. When you copy others, you get lost in the crowd. Neither the absence of wrinkles, nor long legs, nor bright lips will make you better than you really are.

      — What would you advise women who dream of participating in similar contests?

      — Definitely take part! Doubting is normal. But life is one, and it's important to use every opportunity.

      — What are your plans after the victory?

      — The title gives the right to represent Crimea at the international contests "Mrs. World" and "Mrs. Globe." This is a unique chance and a great experience, but at the same time a huge responsibility. Now I want to restore my strength and think everything over.

      Text by: Sofya Sheshina.

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