Claudia Ciobanu: “Confidence, for me, is quiet strength, knowing who you are even when the world doubts you.

Anne Marie
Oct 11
4 min read

Let’s start from the beginning: What first inspired you to pursue modeling, and how did that passion begin when you were younger?

I’ve always been drawn to it. My love for fashion started since I was a little girl. I grew up in a big family with many cousins who often passed down their clothes to me, and I would spend hours styling outfits and changing looks. I loved creating little stories, imagining that I was a model walking on runways, or featuring in music videos. What began as a game slowly became a passion. Those playful moments were the foundation of my creative expression and eventually sparked my true passion for fashion and modeling.

You mentioned taking a break to focus on your studies. How did that time away shape your perspective on modeling and personal growth?

That break was important because it allowed me to understand discipline, balance, and independence. I dedicated time to my education, exploring business and economics, areas that taught me structure and perspective. When I came back to modeling, I did it with a clearer sense of self and a deeper confidence.

Coming back to modeling now, what feels different this time compared to when you first started?

This time, I’m doing it for myself, with passion, not pressure. I’m more aware of who I am and what I want to share. I’m not chasing validation anymore. I’m enjoying the process, the art, and the freedom to express emotions through my work.

⁠Confidence seems to be a big theme for you. How do you define confidence today, and how has your understanding of it evolved over time?

Confidence, for me, is quiet strength: knowing who you are even when the world doubts you. When I was younger, I thought confidence meant perfection. Now I know it’s about authenticity, self-acceptance, and kindness toward yourself. It’s in the way you carry your energy, not just your appearance.

Representing Moldova at Miss Europe Continental 2025 is an incredible achievement. What does this opportunity mean to you personally and culturally?

Representing Moldova at Miss Europe Continental 2025 is both an honor and a defining milestone in my journey. It’s an opportunity to highlight the elegance, ambition, and creativity that our country embodies. For me, it symbolizes dedication, growth, and the joy of being part of something truly meaningful on an international stage. It makes me proud to be part of something that celebrates diversity across Europe.

Pageants often go beyond beauty—they’re about purpose and voice. What message or values do you hope to share through this experience?

I want to inspire people to believe in new beginnings, that it’s never too late to reconnect with something you love. My message is about growth, balance, and inner beauty. I believe in authenticity, kindness, and the power of dreams that evolve with us.

You’ve described this journey as a “celebration of growth.” Can you tell us about a defining moment that made you realize how much you’ve grown?

There was a moment during one of my recent photoshoots when I looked at the images and saw not just poses, but confidence that felt real. That’s when I realized how much I had changed. Growth isn’t loud, it’s visible in the calm way you handle things that once scared you.

⁠Creativity plays a big role in your work. In what ways do you use creativity to express yourself or connect with others through modeling?

For me, creativity is pure storytelling. Each photo is a universe of emotion, light, and movement. I love creating concepts through colors, themes, and outfits, it’s how I translate feelings into visual stories that people can connect with.

Modeling can be a challenging industry. How do you stay grounded and maintain self-belief amid competition and pressure?

I stay grounded by reminding myself why I started: because I love it. I also surround myself with positive people who keep me real. I’ve learned to protect my energy, take breaks, and never compare my path to anyone else’s. Everyone has their own rhythm, and that’s beautiful.

Beauty standards are constantly changing. How do you personally define beauty, and what do you think makes someone truly beautiful?

True beauty is energy, it’s how someone makes you feel. It’s kindness, confidence, and light that comes from within. I admire people who are authentic, who smile with their soul. Makeup, fashion, and style are expressions, but beauty begins with attitude and heart.

Looking ahead, what are your goals in modeling and beyond Miss Europe Continental?

I want to keep evolving, exploring creative projects, fashion collaborations, and photo concepts that inspire emotion. Beyond that, I’d love to continue growing through meaningful projects that inspire and empower women to pursue their passions.

Finally, what advice would you give to someone who dreams of returning to a passion they once set aside?

Go for it! Don’t wait for the perfect moment, it doesn’t exist. Growth happens when you take the first step with courage. I’m living proof that you can return to something you love and do it even better, because experience and self-love turn passion into something lasting and authentic.