Valeriia Riabikina

Model and Ambassador at Tiffany & Co

With a career that began at 16, Valeriia has built her name in the fashion industry, working across international markets, including Japan’s high-intensity modelling scene. Her experience has shaped her understanding of style, craftsmanship, and the quiet power of elegance. Now expanding her expertise into the highest end of the jewellery market, she continues to bring sophistication and an effortless presence to every space she steps into.

What do you do, and what do you love most about it?
I combine two jobs: full time retail job and a modelling career here in London. 
I love that in both roles I get to meet a lot of different people and learn more about their personalities and backgrounds. It helps me expand my own vision of the world and teaches me to find ways to connect. 

What inspired you to pursue this career?
I started modelling when I was 16. It’s been my dream growing up. I used to watch Fashion shows on TV imagining myself walking down the podium. Later on what kept me going was the ability to travel around the world and see incredible places. I’m forever grateful for that opportunity. 

What makes jewellery such an empowering accessory for women?  
Jewellery is a part of self expression. For me, it sometimes reflects my mood and helps me express it better. When I feel powerful and strong, I want to wear bigger pieces that make a statement. When I feel elegant, I want something subtle that doesn’t bring a lot of attention, but compliments my look.

⁠How do you approach confidence and self-expression in your work?
I have a very interesting relationship with confidence. Sometimes we are good friends, and sometimes I have to go look for it, because it’s hiding somewhere in the depth of my mind. But generally I think the older I get, the more comfortable I am in my own skin, which brings along confidence and helps with self-expression quite a lot. 

Who is the woman that has inspired you the most, and why?
My mom is probably the woman who inspires me the most. Her strength, resilience and ability to start over when things don’t work out are very empowering. She inspires me to pursue my goals and not give up.

⁠What does female empowerment mean to you?
I think female empowerment is all about support and acceptance. We often judge each other for our differences, but it’s what makes us unique. Accepting that uniqueness in others is a powerful way to support them and yourself.

What’s your favourite or most worn AJOSEPO piece, and why?
I love my Demeter Gold earrings. They are my first hoop earrings and I usually wear them when I’m in a playful mood and going out to socialise. They are fun yet elegant and easy to combine with most of my clothes!