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From dazzling the red carpet at Cannes to preparing for her 61st award in the UK, Ayse Top is a woman whose presence commands both attention and admiration. Model, writer, and international jury member, she has built a multifaceted career defined by creativity, courage, and global recognition. In this exclusive interview, Ayse opens up about what it means to represent her country on the world stage, the transformative power of fashion, and the message she hopes to pass on to the next generation of women who dare to dream.
You’ve made quite a presence at the Cannes Film Festival — what does this platform mean to you personally and professionally?
The Cannes Film Festival is a prestigious international event held annually in the south of France. For me, it’s a tremendous honor to have made it into the Top 10 international models/actresses list here last year. It’s a moment of personal growth — a chance to shine like a star among Hollywood icons such as Tom Cruise, Rihanna, Halle Berry, and A$AP Rocky. Personally, it represents the culmination of years of dedication and passion for the arts. Professionally, it offers a unique space to connect with fellow creatives, showcase my work, and advocate for causes I care deeply about. It’s a platform where I can engage with diverse talents and contribute to meaningful conversations within the industry.
In September, you’ll be receiving a Best Model award in the UK — how does it feel to be internationally recognized for your modeling achievements?
Over the years, I’ve received 60 awards across various categories — as a writer, a model, and an international jury member. Receiving the Best Model award in the UK is both humbling and empowering. Being acknowledged on such a global level reaffirms my journey and fuels my motivation to keep breaking barriers in the fashion world. This upcoming award will be my 61st, and it feels just as special as the first.
You wear many hats: model, writer, jury member. How do these different roles complement each other in your career?
Each role I take on—model, writer, jury member—offers a different lens through which I see and shape the world. Modeling allows me to express creativity through visuals, writing gives me a platform to share my inner world, and serving as a jury member enables me to uplift and recognize new talent. Together, these roles create a holistic and dynamic career path that lets me influence and inspire from multiple angles.
As an international catwalk model, what has been the most memorable runway moment for you so far?
I’ve walked for many designers and organizations, but if I had to choose one unforgettable experience, it would be walking for celebrity designer Michael Lombard — known for dressing Paula Abdul, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, and Jennifer Lopez. The energy in the room, the music, the designs — it was an electrifying moment. It reminded me of the incredible power fashion has to connect people and express emotion. That show reaffirmed my love for the industry.
What message do you hope to inspire in young women who see you representing your country on global red carpets?
I hope to inspire young women to embrace their individuality and pursue their passions boldly. Seeing someone represent their country on global platforms like Cannes should remind them that no dream is out of reach. Regardless of the obstacles they face, confidence, hard work, and authenticity are the keys to making a lasting impact. I want them to believe in their own light — and to know it’s enough to shine anywhere.
