Valentina Arekayeva: "Beauty begins with self-confidence"

      Singer, entrepreneur, founder of a hair boutique, public figure, and winner of the Miss World Russia 2026 contest Valentina Arekaeva (River) spoke about her journey, inspiration, and desire to help people.

      — Valentina, what do you consider your main achievement?

      — I consider my main achievement the ability to be useful to people and to realize myself in different areas of life. I have always believed that a person should not limit themselves to one role. Today, I am an entrepreneur, a singer, a creative person, and a woman who helps others gain confidence in themselves.

      A special place in my life is occupied by the hair boutique. Through my work, I help people who are facing alopecia and other hair loss issues. For many, this is a question not only of appearance but also of inner harmony. Seeing the happy eyes of people who regain their confidence is priceless.

      — Did winning the Miss World Russia 2026 contest become an important milestone in your life?

      — Undoubtedly. This title for me is not only recognition of outer beauty but also the result of many years of work on myself, my projects, and personal development.

      — What life lessons have been the most important for you?

      — I used to pay too much attention to the opinions of others. Over time, I realized that true success comes when a person remains true to their values and their purpose. Today, I trust my intuition and am not afraid to follow my own path.

      — How do you manage to combine business and creativity?

      — For me, these are two sides of the same personality. My hair boutique helps people regain their confidence, while music allows me to share emotions and inspiration. As the singer River, I tell stories through songs and strive to create art that resonates in people's hearts.

      — What is your main secret to working with an audience?

      — Sincerity. People always feel genuine emotions. I never try to appear as someone else and am convinced that it is important not just to offer a product or service but to create real value for people.

      — What would you advise aspiring artists and entrepreneurs?

      — Don’t be afraid to dream big. Develop, learn, work on yourself, and don’t give up after the first difficulties. The most important thing is to stay true to yourself because individuality is always valued more than any trends.

      — Your life motto?

      — "Beauty begins with confidence in oneself, and success begins with faith in one's own abilities. Everything great is created with love, inspiration, and the courage to be oneself."