Yekaterinburg, Russia.
Located deep in the heart of Russia, Yekaterinburg is one of the hidden gems of the Russian nation.
The fourth-largest city after Moscow, St. Petersburg and Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg—also called Ekaterinburg—with a population of 1.4 million has a rich and proud history that dates back to the tsars of yesterday.
Named after Tsar Peter The Great’s wife, Yekaterina, Yekaterinburg lies close to the border of Europe and Asia, making it a vital city of commerce and industry on two continents.
Known as Sverdlovsk during the Soviet Union era, Yekaterinburg would be the site of a failed coup in 1991, which would see the city gain its original name back during the dissolution of the now-former Soviet Union.
While it’s American sister city is San Jose, California, based on the number of sports athletes—most notably hockey players—Yekaterinburg rivals Detroit as Russia’s “Hockeytown”
NHL standouts such as former Stanley Cup champions such Vladimir Malakhov, Pavel Datsuk, top-five pick Alexei Yahsin were reared in the middle Russian metropolis and notable Olympic athletes such as Yulia Lipnitskaya, Olga Kotlyarova, and models such as former Miss Universe 2010 pageant contestant Irina Antonenko.
Perhaps the next notable resident from the so-called “capital of Urals” is Orlando-based fitness model, Zhanna Karim.
Karim, a 24-year-old fitness model, who has also dabbled in fashion, glamour and swimwear, may be the sexiest and hottest Russian import since Stolicnaya vodka.
Despite being 5’1, the diminutive brown-haired stunner has modeled for brands such as swimwear and lingerie brand Capristal and fitness company, Midway
Below is my Q and A with Zhanna as we talk fitness, working out, looking good for summer and her spring break travels in the Sunshine State.
Name: Zhanna Karim
Age: 24
Height: 5’1
Birthplace: Yekaterinburg, Russia
Measurements: 33-23-34
Social media links: Instagram: @zhannakarim | Facebook: Zhanna Karim
Agency: Freelance
Robert D. Cobb: What kind of model do you consider yourself? (Instagram, pin-up/glamour, fashion)
Zhanna Karim: “I consider myself like fashion, glamour, swimwear and fitness model and of course I like to share my pictures with my Instagram followers.”
Robert D. Cobb: What brands have you modeled for? Which one do you enjoy modeling for the most?
Zhanna Karim: “I modeled for Capristal and MidWay companies. And cannot say that some of these works I liked more or less, there is something special in every modeling job what you can take a very useful experience from.”
Robert D. Cobb: Where has been your favorite place to shoot?
Zhanna Karim: “St. Augustine! With it’s beautiful beach, parks and amazing streets in downtown.”
Robert D. Cobb: What is the most exciting aspect of modeling?
Zhanna Karim: “Working with experienced photographers and the process of creation during photo shoots.”
Robert D. Cobb: Since you’re into fitness, what are your thoughts on “athleisure” fashion or fitness trend?
Zhanna Karim: “First of all, fitness clothes have to be comfortable for you and not to disturb you during your exercises. And if this fact combines with pretty looking, it is a perfect combination for fitness clothes!”
Robert D. Cobb: With spring here, what is the best way to look good and stay in shape?
Zhanna Karim: “My way to look good and to stay in shape in spring is in working out in gym, running, making procedures for hair and face, because they need a special care during spring time and also taking vitamins.”
Robert D. Cobb: Any plans for holiday during spring break?
Zhanna Karim: “Spring break was excellent! I went to Key West, Siesta Keys, fell in love with those beaches”
Robert D. Cobb: What is your secret to staying in shape?
Zhanna Karim: “Regular workouts, running and of course healthy food.”
Robert D. Cobb: Outside of modeling, what are your hobbies?
Zhanna Karim: “I like dancing, spending time with friends, working out and I adore traveling, visiting new places gives me inspiration!”
Sports question: Who are your favorite teams and clubs
Zhanna Karim: “I am not a big fan of sports, so don’t have favorite teams or clubs, just usually watch some big games, championships.”
Robert D. Cobb: What are your favorite cities to travel to?
Zhanna Karim: “I will never forget an individual atmosphere of every city I have visited around the Europe. My favorite cities: Barcelona, Malaga, Rome and Budapest! I am looking forward to discovering different states for myself in the near future!”
Robert D. Cobb: What advice would you give to women aspiring to get into modeling?
Zhanna Karim: “I would advice always to believe in yourself. To try different things in modeling and to work with a lot of photographers, otherwise it is almost impossible to find your own style.”
Special thanks to Ms. Zhanna Karim for her time and cooperation during the Q and A interview process. All images are the respective property of their owners and used with permission.