Selina Rakké is an International Dutch Model and Catwalk Coach who has made a significant impact in the fashion world. As a former Teen Universe Netherlands, Selina has proven to be much more than just a beautiful face; her dedication and passion for modeling have established her as one of the most prominent figures in the industry. Known for her stunning talent on the runway and her innate elegance, Selina embodies Dutch beauty with every appearance, proudly representing her heritage on the international stage.
From her early days in fashion, Selina has captivated designers and photographers alike with her charisma and professionalism. Her ability to master the catwalk and train others has made her a renowned catwalk coach, guiding the next generation of models to shine with confidence and grace. Beyond her modeling career, Selina is admired for her commitment to empowering young talents and her ability to inspire others with her journey.
In this exclusive interview, Selina shares insights into her modeling career, her experiences as a coach, and her vision for the future. Join us as we explore the world of Selina Rakké, a woman who exemplifies the beauty and elegance of the Netherlands on a global scale.
1.- Selina, tell me about the city where you were born and raised. ,What do you like about your hometown?
I was born and raised in Utrecht the Netherlands, which is the very center of the Netherlands. Utrecht is in my opinion (I might be biased 😉 ) one of the most beautiful cities of the Netherlands. Unlike Amsterdam, you can actually sit down directly next to the canals.
2.- What are your hobbies? what makes you laugh a lot or gives you joy?
One of my hobbies that gives me joy is horse riding. It gives me a sense of freedom when ‘crossing’ through different landscapes. Everytime I visit a different country/ place I’ll try to do some horse riding when available/ possible.
3.- International Model, Catwalk Coach, Former Teen Universe Netherlands . When did you decide to take your first steps as a model and beauty pageants? What feeling do you have achieving your dreams, your passions and being a recognized influencer woman today?
The first step I took that led me to the career I have today, was entering my first beauty pageant. Back in 2018, the model industry was quite harsh in which I got rejected a lot, because I was 2 centimeters too short. Because of all the rejections I got quite frustrated, because your hight is something you cannot change. I got scouted a lot of times for a provincial beauty pageant, which I joined just to see if it was something for me.
With my first pageant (Miss Teen of Utrecht) I got 1st runner-up (second place). Becoming second (how weird as it may sound) was the best thing that happened to me. Because a month later I got scouted for the national competition of Teen Universe International www.teenuniverse.tv which is the biggest pageant for Teens around the world. I eventually won the national competition and went internationally to represent my country the Netherlands in Panama, where I had one of the highest placements from a European country ever. This was the start of my career, since after my return (beginning of 2020) my model career started to take off.
Looking back at how far I have come and the things I had to go through to get where I am today is rewarding and makes me feel proud. Because hard work does pay off. Now I do not only have the ability to do what I have always dreamed of (becoming a model), but also having the opportunity to help others achieve their goals and dreams to make them feel confident through my platform. Because I believe when you feel confident, have the ability to believe in yourself and being proud of the person you are is the stepping stone to greatness.
4.- What do you think is the distinctive, unique stamp of Selina in each activity carried out as a beauty queen and model?
As a beauty queen I believe my relatability. because in the end of the day, no matter what you achieve in life, everyone has to start somewhere. Because I share my story, stay true to who I am as a person and always remember where I came from and the efforts it took to get where I am today helps me to connect to others, which in my opinion is essential as a beauty queen.
As a model I would also say relatability, because the audience (selling for example the clothes you are wearing) needs to be able to connect with you. Moreover my ability to show different emotions, professionalism on set and appearance (red hair, pale skin and freckles) adds something that clients might be looking for and shows my ability to work well within a team. Because in the end of the day, creating a campaign or show is all about teamwork and the ability to work effectively and professionally with one another.
5.- Whats is the main virtue that any woman must have to be an internacional model?
The most important virtue a woman needs to have as an international model in my opinion is resilience. The modeling industry is extremely competitive and demanding, with a lot of rejection and criticism. By being resilient you can ‘’bounce back’’ from setbacks, and keep pushing forward even though you might want to give up.
6.- Are you aware of being an influential woman for thousands of girls who want to be models? How important is it to you to be an idol for many girls and teenagers?
I believe it’s the ‘’Dutch down-to-earth attitude’’ that I do not always feel like I have so much ‘’influence’’, but seeing how many woman and girls I have helped over the years, makes me realize how impactful anyone can be. How small or little your platform may be. To me its very important to help others along the way. Because when I started I was always the very insecure kid with no confidence. To now be a person that is actively helping others to do feel confident within their own body is all the reward I need.
7.- What was your feeling the first time you modeled in front of a video camera? What did you feel the first time at a beauty pageant?
I cannot remember the first time in front of the camera specifically, but I do remember the discomfort of having an entire team staring at you, waiting for you to move or do something. That is definitely something I had to get used to at first. With my first beauty pageant, I already had some experience in front of the camera, which I believed helped me a lot to be more confident on stage. My first pageant was to ‘’try it out’’ I believe not feeling that pressure of ‘’needing’’ to win helped me a lot to just enjoy it.
8.- Selina, Do you like to travel? What countries do you know? What other countries would you like to know and which places do you recommend to visit from your country?
Traveling is one of my favorite things to do. I already had the opportunity to travel to 22 countries so far and hoping to add more to the list. I have a lot of countries I still want to visit, but one that I believe stands-out is a trip to Antarctica, because I want to keep doing things that continue to amaze me.
For people coming to the Netherlands I would say ½ days in Amsterdam, Utrecht ofcourse 😉, Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn is something that immediately comes to mind.
9.- Selina, your last words or final tips
Thank you so much for having me!
Something I always say: We were not born to fit in but born to stand out. <3
Selina Rakké
Interview conducted by Jaime William Mostacero Baca with – Selina Rakké – Netherlands
English language
Selina Rakké Contact: Instagram – Email
Interview authorized in writing by Instagram – Email: Selina Rakké – Perumira – Jaime William
All Rights Reserved in the name of Selina Rakké – Perumira – Jaime William