Beauty

What Would Valerie Campbell Do?

Advice on beauty, life and learning, from the model – and mother of Naomi in the May Non-Issue Issue of British Vogue.
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SPECIAL PRICE APPLIES. Valerie Campbell, model and mother of supermodel Naomi.Nicky Johnston / CAMERA PRESS
SPECIAL PRICE APPLIES. Valerie Campbell, model and mother of supermodel Naomi.Nicky Johnston / CAMERA PRESS

What’s the best advice you’ve given Naomi?

From when she was a child, I have always said: “Do your best, work hard, be true to yourself, never give up.” There are always going to be ups and downs in life. Sometimes you can jump up two steps and then you fall down 10 steps. It’s like snakes and ladders; the thing is to not give up. Keep going, and one day doors will open.

What’s the best advice Naomi has given you?

“Do what you told me, Mum.” Sometimes you need a reminder of your own advice.

Your greatest strength?

I am a Jehovah’s Witness, so my strength has always been my spiritual belief. Having faith is a building block – it’s really helped to mould and shape me into who I am today.

Read more: Jane Fonda On Why Now, In Her Eighties, She Finally Feels Whole

Your most prized possession?

If I were on a desert island, the one thing I would grab is my Bible. Not only does it bring a great source of comfort and strength, but it has everything you need. You can continue to read it for years and you will always find new gems. It’s something I like to meditate on.

How can I empower myself to make good choices?

I like to have days where I think I have learnt something. The day we stop learning is the day that we are dead. I am never ashamed if someone tells me something that I don’t know. I think, “Wow, tell me more,” because I want to learn. That, to me, is empowerment.

Read more: 10 Of Naomi Campbell's Most Major Beauty Moments

How do I make the perfect G&T?

Tanqueray gin and Fever Tree tonic with a lot of fresh lemon or lime (literally squeeze in a whole one). Add lots of fresh mint and chipped ice. Not big ice – that’s very important. It’s great when you have a cough and aren’t feeling well, too.

Do I need to go to the gym?

Let me tell you – yes, you need the gym. Everyone needs the gym. I go three times a week, and enjoy classes alternating with Pilates, weightlifting, spinning and rowing.

What’s the most important thing in life?

Family is very important, because at the end of the day, no matter what happens, that’s where you’ve come from and they are the ones you should be able to depend on.

The Non-Issue Issue in May 2019's British Vogue is out on newsstands on April 6

Read more: British Vogue & L’Oréal Paris Present The Non-Issue Issue