—THE FREE SPIRIT—

Making it to Miss Universe 2014’s top 10 and landing the cover of Women’s Health Latin America are only the beginning for former Miss Argentina and Elite Model Management bombshell Valentina Ferrer.

Tell us about your experience on Miss Universe.

It changed my life; not only my career, but my personal life. I learned that you really need to be confident. If you’re confident in yourself and who you are, you will not only be successful, but you will also really enjoy life.

Favorite shoot to date?

The cover I shot for Harper’s Bazaar Mexico. It was a really natural shoot, and I love that.

You’re a former fitness trainer. What’s your favorite way to stay in shape?

I love to dance; I can be cooking or cleaning my house and just start dancing! But I also love Pilates at Jetset or playing basketball at Flamingo Park.

Cheat meal?

The Nutella pizza at Lucali

(1930 Bay Road, Miami Beach, 305-695-4441; lucali.com);

it’s amazing. And sometimes, when I’m hungry late at night and in my pajamas, I go to Bodega (1220 16th St., Miami Beach, 305-704-2145; bodegasouthbeach.com).

Thoughts on social media?

I try to be authentic. I feel like if you try to be too perfect on Instagram, it’s not real.

Who inspires you?

My family. I’m the second oldest of five siblings; I have two brothers and two sisters. They’re in Argentina, so if I’m shooting in Central or South America, I always try to fly out and see them afterwards. I love them—they’re all really nice, crazy people!

@valentinaofficial__