Yuliya Suhanova Miss USSR-89 Country: Russia

Biography of Yulia Sukhanova

Yulia Sukhanova is a former beauty pageant winner and model. She was crowned Miss USSR in 1989, which marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life. Yulia, who had never considered herself beautiful, reluctantly participated in the pageant after her sister encouraged her to apply. She prepared for the competition without much hope of success.

After winning the title, Yulia was offered modeling opportunities in New York City. She started her career by appearing in advertisements for yogurt and ice cream. Eventually, she signed contracts with American and Parisian modeling agencies. The initial period of her career was challenging, as she quickly gained attention and was constantly under scrutiny. People treated her like a celebrity, and she was invited to appear on talk shows and attend press conferences. Despite the difficulties, she remained focused on her goals.

Yulia's beauty attracted many admirers, including Hollywood playboys, Monaco millionaires, and Persian princes. There was even a prince she almost married, but she ended the relationship as she valued qualities like soul, character, and sentimentality more than money. Currently, she is in a relationship with an Italian boyfriend. Yulia is also a successful businesswoman and is the CEO of a company that produces "mountain" air generators. Her clients include celebrities like David Beckham.

Yulia's victory in the Miss USSR pageant marked a turning point in her life. However, if she has a daughter in the future, she has no intentions of allowing her to participate in a beauty contest. She believes that inner qualities are more important than physical appearance.

The Miss USSR competition was organized by Yuri Kushnerov, a renowned producer and director. He conceived the idea of bringing beauty pageants to the Soviet Union after observing the success of such contests in other countries. Yulia's victory was a result of the meticulous selection process conducted by three major modeling agencies. Only the most suitable candidates were chosen to represent their regions in the national competition.

The pageant's main sponsor, Babek Serush, a wealthy Iraqi businessman, provided financial support. Yulia knew Babek since their childhood, as their families lived in the same neighborhood. Despite their different economic backgrounds, Yulia's family always helped Babek's family in times of need. Babek's generous contribution of $40,000 ensured the success of the pageant.

During the competition, the jury consisted of notable figures from the arts and entertainment industry, including ballet star Ekaterina Maximova. They assessed the contestants based on various factors, including physical beauty. Yulia's victory was not without controversy. Another contestant, Elena Silina, who represented Volgograd with her impressive bust size, faced criticism from Maximova. However, Elena's life turned out to be fortunate, as she pursued a successful career as a fashion model in Paris.

Yulia's victory was overshadowed by her uncle's unwelcome intentions. He offered her a bribe to ensure her victory, but she refused his proposal. She felt that he saw the pageant as an opportunity for financial gain. Despite not initially being impressed by Yulia, the uncle's husband of her sister, he quickly recognized the potential profitability of beauty pageants. He swiftly took Yulia to the United States, where she began her modeling career.

After her reign as Miss USSR, Yulia faced many opportunities and challenges in her career and personal life. She went on to have a daughter, who is now preparing for university. Yulia, who is a successful image consultant, helps women present themselves in the best possible way. She no longer follows beauty pageants closely, as she believes that the focus has shifted from elegance and sophistication to personal success and ambition.