The TRIBE has SPOKEN

Russian-born beauty, Australian Survivor star and one of MAXIM's finest models, VALERIA SIZOVA, talks up the game, alliances and facing the ultimate test in physical and mental strength...

- VALERIA SIZOVA

Hello, Valeria. You were born in Russia but have lived in Australia for years. What’s your favourite thing about your heritage?

The rich ancient history, multifaceted culture and our passionate, hard-working and talented people who are prominent figures in the world of sport, ballet, painting and classical music. I also love the fact that anytime I want to sound authoritative and get everyone’s attention, I just switch on my Russian accent and people listen twice as attentive.

Is that how you scored a role on this year’s season of Australian Survivor?

Haha, no! Despite the fact I usually know what my plans are several years in advance, landing a spot on Season 9 of Australian Survivor was an unexpected move. As a kid, I was hooked on the Russian Survivor, but little did I know I’d be living my own survival story Down Under. Life is just one big tribal council, and joining the show was my destiny!

Why do you think the show’s producers chose you?

They must have seen my love for competition, paired with my epic saga of relocating to Australia post-high school – from landing my first job to mastering English, making friends and navigating the cultural maze. It’s like they thought, “This person can thrive on stress, let’s test it one more time!” Survivor isn’t just a game, it’s a crash course in life. You need years of experiences, the rollercoaster of ups and downs and a PhD in handling tribal council stress. Surviving this game is the testimonial to your mental, emotional and physical stability – and, in that sense, the producers loved seeing me challenge myself.

What was the biggest challenge you faced on Australian Survivor?