Meet and Greet with Avona Ryba Top Model and Model of the Month October

Sunday was an amazing day…. Opium Top Model and Model of the Month both honours awarded to me to my great surprise…. October must be a lucky month because it was this time last year that I started my journey into the modelling world as a Face of photoLIFE finalist. I’m truly over the moon to have been so fortunate and I wanted to take a very special moment to say thank you for the opportunity

I’m so delighted to receive a wonderful accolade a beautiful opal on diamond necklace custom made by Alexandar Vargas and given to all of Opium’s Top Models. I will wear it always with pride

October’s model of the month started with a message about the contest. The deadline was a short one and I imagine like me everyone was hastily preparing an entry pic… but there was more, as I discovered later. In total there were three little tests to pass… Print, Follow Direction and Runway Skills and another outfit to style for the contest show before the day was out.

I sourced my outfit from various designers, mixing it up for a Halloween theme.. I was ready and joined 9 more fabulous models backstage for the next instructions. Nerves were running high as we walked a killer of a runway, trying to keep our composure as the lag monster hit with a vengeance. Everyone looked absolutely amazing and did a fantastic job. We lined up at front of stage and waited…… To my surprise my name was called … Model of the month of October

Along with the title some fabulous gifts were bestowed on a somewhat gobsmacked Avona… L$500….. A L$75 Pixeldoll gift certificate….A gorgeous gown from Bliss Couture Paige in plum, absolutely stunning I love it so much

Of course you can’t have a gown without some fantastic jewels to complete the outfit. Audrey Pearls from the awesome designer ByKay. An elegant classic pearl set of earrings, necklace, bracelet and ring. A perfect colour match with the detailing on the gown….. very beautiful

How did you learn about second life and why did you start playing Second Life?
It was through a local tv news programme that i first discovered Second Life. I remember seeing a musical artist performing in real life and broadcasting live to people in this virtual world called second life. From then on it was one discovery after another…. I guess i started playing through a real interest to find out what it was all about and almost 2 years on I’m still here..

What is it about modelling that interests you in Second life?
For me it’s all about the creativity and being part of it…. it gives me such a fantastic feeling to be an extension of a designers creative thoughts. To have the opportunity to present those designs to an audience in the absolute best way that I can…. its definitely worth all the hard work in preparation for those few special moments walk on the runway

Do you have a favourite designer?
One of my favourite designers of the moment is Miamai… elegant, classy., very feminine and full of fabulous detail in attachments and fabric…. definitely has a wow factor for me

What is your favourite style and/or era of fashion
I’m fairly open minded and I think as a model it’s good to be that way……. but I do love the glamour of Vintage fashion

What is one of the tricks of the trade that you think is key to modelling?
To take on board any constructive advice and always be willing to alter your appearance to suit a designers needs.

Who have you encountered along the way that truly inspires you?
I’m inspired by the many people who work hard to achieve, who put their heart and soul into a dream, who encourage and praise those who are a part of their dream. It fills me with a warmth of belonging and a true appreciation. Mallory, Oom, Alianna ,Mystical, Anatasia. The most fabulous photographer around, Ludwig and for just being a great friends and mischief makers, KittenStar and Cully…..all amazing people that have inspired me in their own special way…. thank you

What is one of your money saving tips for models?
Fashion doesn’t necessarily have to cost the earth.. I love it when I find a new designer, sale or even a free item to die for. Great places to keep up to date are online fashion blogs, there are lot out there to keep a girl busy…

Where did you receive your training?
Actually I have never received any formal training. I’m a great believer in self improvement and have a strong work ethic. I’ve also been very fortunate in my agency placement where I have been able to learn from fantastic role models.

What are your goals for modelling in Second life?
Simply to be the best that I can be in what or where ever the modelling world takes me.

What other interests do you have in Secondlife?
I love to explore, I’m a keen photographer and owner of a photoLIFE 3 studio. Estate Photographer for Costa del Mar….Shape creator….lately I have been involved in creating graphics for vendor displays. A first time blogger and a enthusiastic treasure hunter.

What place or thing would you most like to experience in second life, but have been unable to do so as yet?
I’d like to learn more about building and designing. .. Maybe one day I will be on the other side of the runway looking up at my very own designs.

Do you think you’ve found a balance between Sl and RL? If yes, what is your key to balance?
The key I think is to always keep in mind that RL comes before SL. When and if priorities take a turn around that would be the time to step back and rethink