With Petra Nemcova & blogger friend Rosy Cordero at Bloomingdale's Aventura |
It's rare to come across celebrities whose hearts match their stellar looks, but in the case of Petra Nemcova, it is possible for an incredibly kind and gracious spirit to trump incredible beauty. I had the privilege to chat one on one with the super-sweet supermodel last week during her visit to Bloomingdale's at the Aventura Mall where she was promoting a collaboration with Clinique and her Happy Hearts Fund (HHF).
You may recall Petra's unimaginable story of survival from the 2004 Tsunami in Thailand when she gripped to a palm tree for eight hours until rescued. She suffered serious injuries and lost her boyfriend in the disaster, but still emerged a survivor, pledging to dedicate her life to children and leaving the modeling industry behind. The following year she founded HHF, a non-profit organization dedicated to rebuilding schools in areas affected by natural disasters. Since then, Happy Hearts Fund has worked in 14 countries and built 70 schools, benefiting over 40,000 children in disaster stricken areas.
During my twenty minutes with Petra I couldn't help but smile. Beyond her stunning beauty, every word she uttered about her work was full of passion and joy. Her energy was so peaceful and genuine, I just wanted to hug her! Dressed in a simple turquoise Rachel Roy dress, Stuart Weitzman pumps, and ethnic wrap from her travels, it was her gleaming eyes that captured your gaze.
Do your part this holiday season and suport children all over the world - With every purchase of the limited edition Happy Heart Perfume Spray ($37), Clinique will donate $10 to HHF. Truly the gift that keeps on giving.