Paulina Porizkova Claims Women Are ‘Pushed to Remain Silent’

Supermodel Paulina Porizkova is sharing her thoughts on the journey of aging as a woman.

“This is for all you wonderful ladies on Instagram — and those who occasionally stop me on the street just to say ‘hi’ and ‘thank you,’” Porizkova, 61, expressed in a video posted on Sunday, September 27, on Instagram. “I’m a bit surprised by the ‘thank you.’ I suppose I still don’t feel like I truly deserve it, but I’m working on that. I think the ‘thank you’ is for helping you feel less alone in your frustrations about aging.”

She added, “Aging is such a privilege when we experience it — and yet — it’s precarious, particularly for women. We often find ourselves sidelined as we age. There are expectations for us to become quiet and withdraw from polite society.”

Porizkova gained fame as a supermodel in the 1980s, making an appearance in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 1983, and later graced the magazine’s cover in both 1984 and 1985. She has since become a prominent figure on social media for her body-positive messaging.

“Those of us who aren’t ready to give up often resort to surgical alterations. And those who choose to disengage can certainly do so and live fulfilling lives. Yet, there seems to be an imbalance here,” Porizkova continued in her video. “Can’t we age gracefully and still have a seat at the main table? We have so much to offer now more than ever.”

After inviting her followers to share what content they would like to see more of and what brings them joy, she concluded, “Let’s focus on that more, and let me know in the comments what I can do to enhance your experience.”

“This is all about engaging with social media,” Porizkova noted in her caption. “What uplifts you? What brings you down? What triggers envy? What fosters generosity? What inspires you? I find joy in seeing women who reflect my own experiences. I feel worse when I sense I can’t contribute in any meaningful way, especially during challenging times.”

She explained, “I experience envy when I see my peers achieving what I desire. I feel generous when I witness people I admire succeeding, transforming envy into goodwill. I am inspired whenever I see a woman being true to herself without apology.”