Section 4
Iuliia Bazhan
interview
Interview by Kamil Grund Iuliia Bazhan
Kamil: What inspired you to first step onto the runway — and how has that inspiration evolved over time? Iulia: I attended my first fashion show as a guest. Watching the runway, I realised I didn’t want to observe it - I wanted to be part of it. That evening I was introduced to several designers. Soon they began inviting me to their shows and later I create my portfolio and sign my first modelling contract, what was the opposite of the usual path into the industry. My parents shaped the way I approached that dream. My father always believed in me unconditionally. He would often tell me that I could achieve anything I truly committed to. My mother had a different perspective. She believed that if you want to be recognised, you have to work harder than everyone else. She was demanding and always pushed me to do better, to keep improving. Looking back, I realise I needed both. Confidence from my father and discipline from my mother became the foundation for everything I have done since. Kamil: Your journey blends fashion with advocacy - what’s one moment off-camera that changed the way you view beauty and purpose? Iulia: One moment that stayed with me was meeting a family raising a child with autism. Doctors had told them that nothing could be improved and that they should simply accept limitations. From my own experience I knew that progress is possible, but it requires far more support, structure and time. That moment helped me understand the power of sharing my story. When families see real examples of what is possible, it changes the way they look at their children’s future Kamil: If you could design a dream collaboration that celebrates neurodiversity and creativity, what would it look like? Iulia: One project I am currently developing is a photo exhibition dedicated to successful adults who were diagnosed with autism in childhood, as well as children who, with modern therapeutic approaches and early support, have achieved remarkable developmental progress. The idea is to show their stories through portraits and personal narratives: scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, people who discovered their strengths and built meaningful lives. When parents see examples like this, it changes how they imagine the future for their own children. The goal is not to ignore the challenges, but to show that there is also enormous potential when the right support and environment are in place.
Founder & Strategic Advocate for Autism Development, Miss New York IULIIA BAZHAN
www.instagram.com/bazhan_ulia
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