Natalia came to my studio in Driebergen for a shoot to update her Linked In profile photo, celebrate herself as a woman in her 40s and explore her femininity.

If your friends/family had to describe you in 3-4 words, what would they say?

Natalia is a kind and inspiring person whom you can rely on in hard times. Despite her creative spirit she is well organised, not counting her chronic lateness.

What would you say is your best emotional quality?

I'm an optimist and very open person. I learned to like my sensitivity.

What is your occupation and how do you like to spend your free time?

I work in IT where I organise and manage the support of the enterprise applications which help the Dutch government to digitalise their business processes. I prefer to spend my free time outdoors, far away from the computer. Creativity gives me so much energy that sometimes I can't sleep because I want to realize many ideas all at the same time. Hopefully during my retirement I can spend more time on my hobbies than I do now.

Any 'life hacks' to share?

Combination of good food, good music and good people together will make your celebration greater and dark times lighter.

What brings you joy?

I'm really enjoying it when I am among the people who are passionate, organised and joined to do something together they truly believe in despite difficulties. I'm really happy to be part of a big collective who work with enthusiasm and passion.

What are you most proud of?

I survived the immigration to the Netherlands and organised my life exactly as if I stayed in Belarus: I studied, got a proper job and overcame the language barriers. I didn't stay in the bubble, I adapted to living in a new countryand became active in the political and social movements.

What is your favourite poem, quote or saying?

Streng denken, hart kämpfen, aus tiefstem Herzen lieben. Friedrich Engels

What advice would you give your 20-year old self looking back?

Try harder to ignore other people's opinions. Even in your 40s you will not find a place where you fit in completely, but you will be happy anyway.

What are your thoughts on aging?

The 40s is a great age because you still have youth and energy and you have already become wise and confident. I like how easy I can accept my looks and my personality. It feels like I am just starting to get to know myself and I am very curious about my 50s.

Do you still have a dream or big goal or things that you would love to accomplish?

I would like to paint more and to develop my art skills.