Lizzy Burden

MANILA, Philippines — There is calm in the soul of Filipino-British model and journalist Lizzy Burden. Her Zen-like demeanor coupled with her alluring smile can hold one spellbound. But it is when she pursues her passions — in fashion, academics, mass media or sports — that her beauty is revealed even more.

When she was younger, Lizzy, who is now 26 and was born in Manila and raised in Manchester, England, wanted to be a lawyer. But at 17, the world of fashion opened doors for Lizzy who discovered even more her passion for creativity through the runways of Paris, Milan, London and New York.

“I was into academics when I was growing up. And then modeling exposed me to all sorts of creative people. I have great respect for creative talent. I am also a classically trained pianist. So, I’ve been blessed with who I get to work with, things that I am able to see and places that I get to go. Modeling has been so kind to me,” says the 5’10” svelte beauty, who has walked for Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang, Tommy Hilfiger and Dolce & Gabbana.

Being in the fashion industry for almost a decade, Lizzy believes that it is important to listen to the voice inside her because of the nature of the industry she is in. “It is important for one to keep one’s own counsel, especially when one’s moving around and one has to make friends quickly,” she says. “You need to be able to trust yourself even if you’re going to be rejected, you need to be able to put yourself together and believe that you are a good and worthy person.”

Lizzy has graced magazine covers, fashion editorials and campaigns. With her commanding presence, she has clocked miles on the runways across five continents. In between walking the runway and posing for fashion editorials, Lizzy did not lose her drive in achieving her dream — to graduate from college. With the money she made from modeling, she was able to send herself to the University of Cambridge where she graduated with a degree in History and went on to study International Relations at the London School of Economics. She is currently completing a National Council for the Training of Journalists diploma in UCFB Wembley with a full scholarship from the Journalism Diversity Fund.

She has also written for The Times of London and was able to complete documentary projects like Gerald R. Ford commissioned by the Presidential Library and aired by National Geographic.

“I like to feel that I have accomplished things,” Lizzy shares. “I was not just given things but I worked for some things that I have right now. I improve myself — creatively, spiritually, academically or professionally. I learn to move forward, that makes me happy.”

It is Lizzy’s love for life that fuels her to achieve her dreams. And it is her love for family that keeps her strong and grounded. “I think as you get older, you’ll realize the joy that you get from other people, from small acts of kindness. I notice the kindness that people give to me, and I treasure it. Because of that I also try to give it back to other people. By focusing on that more than the material things, you will see a whole new dimension of the world. I’m also blessed to have a family who loves me. I’m grateful that I still have my parents. I know I have my feet on the ground because of them.”

With hard work, passion and dedication, Lizzy is now traversing the runway of her life. She is living every day, one long steady stride at a time.

Photography by Mau Aguasin • Creative direction by Luis Espiritu Jr. • Styling by Bang Martinez and Tara Subaldo • Makeup by Sari Campos for Make Up For Ever • Hairstyling by Kierlo Velasco • Jewelry by Jul B. Dizon • Asymmetrical printed dress with ruffle detail by Azucar; white woven abaca platforms available at Seek The Uniq; white ‘Albufera’ body suit and ‘Noja’ ruffled hem skirt by Seek the Uniq • Shot on location at Lady Scott Jones HOME (The Metroclub, Estrella Street, Rockwell, Makati City. Tel. Nos. 0917-7274699 and 624-8619. Visit www.ladyscottjones.com.) • Special thanks to Elite Manila