There are many things I have done in my life. I have been a global tour guide, an interpreter, a motivational speaker, an author, a podcast host, a magazine editor, a life coach and a hypnotherapist. I have travelled to more than one hundred countries, spoken on international stages, interviewed fascinating people from around the world and embraced opportunities that many only dream of.

But until yesterday, I had never been a model. Yes, I have done countless photo shoots over the years for work, magazine articles and promotional material, but I had never even heard the word moodboard, let alone been part of a professional fashion campaign.

Let me start from the beginning. A couple of years ago, during the very first Cyprus Diaspora Forum, I met a talented young man who immediately caught my attention. Michalis Pantelidis was speaking on a panel of young Cypriot entrepreneurs, sharing his vision for fashion, textiles and design. His passion was contagious, and I remember thinking that this was someone who was creating much more than beautiful products.

Naturally, I invited him to be a guest on my podcast, Most Memorable Journeys, where he shared his inspiring story with honesty and elegance. Later, he became one of the speakers at a Cyprus Business Group event, and I had the pleasure of writing an article about his remarkable work.

Michalis is a Cypriot textile designer working at the intersection of fashion, art and cultural storytelling. His creations are far more than accessories. His silk scarves, ties, kaftans and other pieces translate heritage, memory and everyday observations into wearable works of art. Founded in 2021, his studio began as a personal exploration of photography and textiles and has evolved into a beautiful collection rooted in craftsmanship, authenticity and storytelling.

So when he recently asked me whether I would like to participate in one of his photo shoots, I didn’t hesitate for a second. My answer was immediate: “Yes, absolutely.” Yesterday morning, I drove to the beautiful coastal town of Protaras, where the shoot was taking place at the stunning Cavo Zoe Seaside Hotel. The setting could hardly have been more perfect, with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean providing a spectacular backdrop for the collection.

Being me, I naturally arrived first. In true Cypriot fashion, everyone else appeared a little later, and once the entire team had gathered, the day quietly came to life. We were introduced to one another, briefed on the concept of the shoot and made to feel completely welcome from the very beginning.

Soon afterwards, it was my turn in the styling chair. Panikos from Le Loft performed what I can only describe as a miracle. I honestly don’t think my hair has ever looked like that in my entire life. Judging by the amount of hairspray involved, I suspect he may have used almost an entire can, but the result was spectacular and absolutely worth it. Then the make-up artists worked their magic. Watching talented professionals transform faces with such skill and precision is fascinating. Within minutes, I hardly recognised myself.

And then the cameras started clicking. I found myself surrounded by an incredibly beautiful group of young models. Of course, models are expected to be beautiful, but what impressed me most was not their appearance. It was their kindness. They were warm, funny, down-to-earth and genuinely welcoming. Despite being considerably older than most of them, I never once felt out of place. They chatted, laughed, encouraged one another and made me feel as though I belonged there.

As someone who has spent a lifetime observing people, I couldn’t help but notice something else that stood out throughout the day: the professionalism. Every detail had been carefully thought through. Everything seemed effortless, yet behind that effortless appearance was meticulous planning. There was no shouting, no panic and no unnecessary stress.

Having worked on countless photo shoots over the years, I have met photographers whose tension filled the entire room. This was the complete opposite. Dre, the photographer, worked with remarkable calmness and confidence. His quiet professionalism immediately put everyone at ease. There was no drama, only focus, creativity and respect.

And then there was Michalis. Watching him lead his team was perhaps my favourite part of the entire experience. He never needed to raise his voice or demand attention. He guided everyone with quiet confidence, kindness and humility. He made every single person feel important, from the models to the stylists, the photographers and every member of the crew. That, to me, is true leadership. He genuinely loves what he creates, and it shows in every scarf, every tie, every kaftan and every carefully designed piece that carries his signature. His passion is visible not only in the finished products but also in the atmosphere he creates around him. Everything had its place. Every person knew their role. Every system worked seamlessly. It was a masterclass in organisation without ever losing its warmth.

As for my role, I was cast as a slightly lonely tourist, relaxing on a sunbed while happily enjoying an ice cream. I cannot wait to see the final photographs, especially the beautiful kaftan images with Petra and, naturally, my starring role with that ice cream!

By the end of the day, I had gained a completely new appreciation for professional modelling. It is glamorous for a few seconds in front of the camera, but behind every beautiful photograph are long hours of preparation, countless wardrobe changes, waiting patiently, adjusting tiny details and working under the blazing Cypriot summer sun.

It is hard work. Real work. Would I do it again? Without hesitation. Would I want to become a professional model? Probably not. I have found my own path in life, and I love every part of it. But saying yes to this unexpected experience reminded me, once again, of something I have learned throughout my travels and adventures: life continues to surprise us when we remain curious enough to say yes. At 65, I had my very first experience as a fashion model. Who would have thought? Perhaps that is exactly the beauty of life. There is always another first waiting just around the corner.

Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis
CBG Magazine Editor

Author: Elisabeth V. Toufexis

Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis Elisabeth Villiger Toufexis is a woman of resilience and courage, who has navigated life’s turbulences, tamed her fears, and undertaken an incredible...