interview by MARIA MOTA

This season of ‘Holland’s Next Top Model’ holds a particularly special place in our hearts, as we had the incredible opportunity to partner with the show and witness every step of the contestants’ transformative journeys up close. Gitte, who ultimately claimed the well-deserved title of winner, has now landed her very first cover with us.

Watching her growth and grounded personality unfold on screen was a rare reminder of why we love this industry: the magic of transformation while staying true to yourself. Now, as she embarks on a promising new chapter, we’re sitting down to discuss her beginnings, breakthroughs, and everything in between.

coat and shoes BOSS
tights CALZEDONIA

Let’s start with a powerful question—can you describe Gitte in three words?

Happy, sweet, maybe a little chaotic.

Let’s take it back to the beginning. How did this entire journey start for you? What was life like before joining ‘Holland’s Next Top Model’, and what motivated you to take that step?

My life was very normal, surrounded by many lovely friends and family. A friend of mine asked if we wanted to sign up for HNTM together, and I saw it as a chance to do something completely different. I’ve always liked modelling and really wanted to learn more about the business, so it seemed like a good opportunity to learn and be seen.

It’s only been a couple of weeks since the finale. How has life changed for you in such a short time, and how are you adapting to this new chapter?

There’s been a lot of change! I’ve gained a lot of followers and I’m getting lots of requests for shoots and interviews. But for now, I'm focusing on doing some test shoots and building my portfolio.

What were some of the biggest challenges or pressures you faced during the competition?

Not overthinking it, but just feeling it. When you start thinking too much on set, it shows on your face. But if you just feel it and let go, your body and face become more relaxed, and that works better in a photo.

And what about the biggest lessons?

Always believe in yourself and don’t compare yourself to others. There were moments when my shoot went well, but hearing from others that their shoot also went well made me immediately think I had done a bad job.

Looking back on this entire experience, was there a specific moment—big or small—that holds a special place in your heart?

Yes, when my mom and brother came to set. My family is really important to me, so I was happy that I could finally share everything with them.

It’s incredible to see how genuine and true to yourself you are during the show. Yet, when the cameras turn on, you transform into this fierce supermodel. What do you think about that?

Haha yes, that’s really funny! I think because I’m always just myself and don’t find anything awkward, it makes it easier for me on set. I don’t care if they ask me to scream, I just go with it.

On the last episode, we spoke about how you would like your cover with us to look. And And it’s not in a goal like we spoke about! But how do you feel stepping into this character? And how exciting is it for you to land your first cover?

I am really excited for this shoot because it’s my first ever cover, and I’m so thankful for that. I also like this concept because it’s something different from what I’m used to. I'm getting back into character and hoping the photos turn out great!

How has your perception of what it means to be a model evolved since you first joined the show?

I thought that being a model meant you always had to look beautiful, but I’ve learned that’s not entirely true. Being a model means you can express many different things, sometimes less beautiful.

What does a perfect day look like to you?

Waking up with a cup of tea, the sun shining, going for a walk on the beach, and watching movies in the evening with friends.

Who or what inspires you the most as you move forward in your career?

Bella Hadid. She’s so beautiful and powerful on the runway. And she’s not only beautiful on the outside but also on the inside. She is really nice to people, and I think that’s really important. Plus, she isn’t afraid to show that not everything is perfect.

What’s one piece of advice you live by and always try to remember?

If you can dream it, you can do it. And do what makes you happy!

What’s the one thing you hope people remember most about you—not as a model, but as a person?

I hope people remember me as a kind person who is always true to herself. That’s the most important thing to me—being authentic and having others see that in me.

bra PATRICIA BOS
jeans and gloves G-STAR

Let’s talk about dreams for a moment. Was winning ‘Holland’s Next Top Model’ one of yours? How do you feel now having achieved it?

Yes, it’s been a dream of mine since I was little. I used to watch Holland’s Next Top Model with my dad, but back then, I was really shy and never thought I would actually do it. That’s why I’m extra proud of myself! Not just for doing it, but also for winning.

And now, what’s the next one?

Haha, now I’m hoping to land great modelling jobs and I hope that one day I’ll do a really great campaign for Dior.

How do you think Gitte is doing in 5 years from now?

In five years, I see myself having worked on some amazing projects, met a lot of great people, and hopefully landed a big campaign… always believe in yourself!

And lastly, for our readers to get to know you a bit more, let’s do some fun fire questions:

Coffee or tea? TEA
Go-to comfort food? PASTA
What’s the last thing you Googled? WHAT IS THE BEST HAIR OIL
One thing you can’t leave the house without? MY PHONE
Dream designer to work with? JOHN GALLIANO
Staying in or going out? GOING OUT
Favourite movie of all time? TITANIC
If you could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you be? GREECE
Morning person or night owl? MORNING PERSON

TEAM CREDITS:
talent GITTE VAN ELST
photography DANIEL SARS
styling MAREK BARTEK
hair WIARDI KOOPMEINERS
makeup ANH NGUYAEN
interview and production MARIA MOTA
editor TIMOTEJ LETONJA
cover design ARTHUR ROELOFFZEN
location PARQ STUDIOS

IN CONVERSATION WITH GITTE VAN ELST

IN CONVERSATION WITH RAECHELLE BANNO

IN CONVERSATION TIFFANY BOONE