Strong Voice Interview #39: Kim Hnizdo

For this year’s International Women’s Day, we teamed up with Kim Hnizdo, model, host, and Women for Women International Ambassador, to create laptop cases that combine design with impact.

In this interview, Kim shares what inspires her, the power of sisterhood, and her commitment to supporting women.

"It’s not about grand stages but about daily interactions, conscious listening, and uplifting each other. Empowerment starts with ourselves and grows with every action we take for others." - Kim Hnizdo

Which women have inspired you on your journey – and why?

Many. I love women. They inspire me on so many levels. I try to take something from even the smallest encounters – moments, words, attitudes that shape me. The diversity, empathy, and strength of women in all their facets fascinate me deeply. 

This perhaps slightly romantic perspective gives me strength – for my work, for my passion. At the same time, the ongoing gender-based injustice is a major driving force for me: listening to women, making them more visible, and standing in solidarity with them. 

Of course, the women in my family – my mother, my sister – are especially close to my heart. But "sisterhood" is a mindset that goes far beyond family ties. I have felt this even more strongly through my work with Women for Women International.  

You’ve built a career in a highly competitive industry – what has helped you find your own path?

Even though my career started with a modeling contest ("Germany’s Next Topmodel"), I have never been someone who thinks in terms of competition. I believe in togetherness – not rivalry. Especially in such a competitive industry, it helps not to get lost in negativity and, with that, isolation.

My biggest competitor and critic has probably always been myself. I learned early on to focus on my own journey, to set my mind on my goals, to visualize them – without ever losing sight of my values.

What’s important to me: success should never come at the expense of others.

What drives you to advocate for women alongside your work as a model and presenter – for example, as a Women for Women International Ambassador?

Intuition. Passion. Compassion. Inspiration. Ambition. A deep sense of justice.  

I’ve always had this urge to make a difference – but it took time to find the right framework for it. When I first read about Women for Women International a few years ago, I immediately knew: this is a match. Since then, it has become a profound and enriching partnership.

What small things can each of us do in our daily lives to empower other women?

So much. And everywhere. Awareness. Education. Solidarity. Support.

Whether in our own environment or through global organizations – every action counts. It’s not about grand stages but about daily interactions, conscious listening, and uplifting each other. Empowerment starts with ourselves and grows with every action we take for others.

A little more togetherness, a little less division – that alone can create an incredible impact.

If you could send one message to all women out there, what would it be?

More togetherness, less division.

You’ve designed a new laptop case with us – what excited you most about this collaboration, and why is this product a must-have for you?

I am inspired by the collaboration of three partners who share the same values: Women for Women International, you – and me. Together, we show what women can create with a shared vision.

This laptop case is more than just a product – it’s a statement. The Women for Women branding makes it visible, but behind it lies real support and real change. May it serve as a daily reminder – for ourselves and for every woman out there.