After an unsuccessful season of Canada’s Next Top Model: Cycle 1, Jay Manuel stepped in and revived the show and out came a fierce top model that blazed through the country: Rebecca Hardy. The edgy red-headed girl that went from a fish-and-guts environment to the catwalks of Toronto proved that if you want it badly, work for it and it will happen. We got the opportunity to ask Rebecca what it’s like to be a role model and what it means to her.

1. A few days after you were announced Canada’s Next Top Model, I was at the Sutherland Models office and accidently stumbled over you (while you were sitting) and was star struck. I didn’t say anything, though I wish I did. How do fans react when they see you on the streets?

You definitely should have said something! Fans either don’t know what to say to me or have tons of questions. I find it so neat that they want to know about my experiences. If it’s talking about the show, or talking about hair, one thing that never changes is talking about positivity. I always try to set a good example for the young people that I come into contact with. That’s how I make sure my model behaviour doesn’t end on the runway.

2. What is “model behaviour”?

Model behaviour to me means taking care of myself both physically and emotionally, by making positive choices in the various things that I do like diet, exercise, stress management, skin care and even my sexual health. What helps me with my personal system is riding my bike whenever I can, using a stress-free and convenient, once-a-month contraceptive called NuvaRing, tuning out and listening to my Ipod for “me” time and using hypoallergenic make-up, like Covergirl foundation. Model behaviour is a way of life for me on and off the runway and is definitely not any different from how actors and singers should behave! Whether you’re an actor, a singer or just an everyday person, finding a system that works for you is always good behaviour.

3. As a contestant on a reality show, there are things that people aren’t “supposed” to see but some say publicity is publicity, whether if it’s bad or good. What do you think about this statement?

I definitely don’t agree that any publicity is good publicity. When you’re in the spotlight, it’s important to set a good example and be a good role model. “Not fresh”, “unfavourable”, “unpleasant” are all different adjectives for “bad”. I don’t know about you but I wouldn’t want any of those attached to my name!