I don't want to have strong arms, like you get from Pilates or yoga. But dancing arms become your best accessory. And it's great for your core muscles.

As a child I really didn't like men at all, in fact.

My appearance gave me access to a particular kind of world and I'm really grateful for it.

Finding out I was pretty was a very nice realisation.

I live a very different life now, with incredible privileges, but looking back I realise that growing up in Russia gave me tools that other people don't necessarily have - such as the will to push that bit further, to make things happen, to succeed.

Writing down goals makes you think of what is achievable. It really makes you reflect on what you are today.

I completely admire my mother for raising a child with cerebral palsy at home.