Bio
Marinika Smirnova, Russian-born model, actress, TV presenter, socialite and businesswoman currently resides and works in London.
Marinika was born in Moscow to Soviet gymnast champion Elena Kolesnikova and Evgeniy Smirnov, making her niece to Pierre Smirnoff, the famous Russian businessman and renowned supplier of Smirnoff Vodka to the Court of Emperor Nicholas Romanov II. Taking up dancing professionally from the age of 7 Marinika began a career in performing also embracing a professional career in synchronised swimming. At the age of 15 she became the leading performer of the well-known dance group, “SWEET” affording her travel throughout Russia supporting top Russian pop stars and from her success was consequently cast in numerous music videos as a dancer and model. Modus Vivendi signed Marinika to their top modelling agency in Moscow at the age of 18, gracing the covers of FHM, GQ, and Marie Claire among a plethora of high-end publications. In 2007 she also became the face of Fly’s nationwide campaign, the mobile phone giant, and consequently became engrossed in intensive acting courses with elite acting schools in New York and London. Marinika’s crowning glory saw her become Mrs Russia in 2008.
The success of her status as Mrs Russia led to a presenting role on the Russian primetime show “Blondie and I” on premier channel TV Stolitsa. Moving to London in 2009 did not deter Marinika from maintaining a role within TV Stolitsa, being central to the production of some of their lifestyle programs, commercials, documentaries and feature films. London presented new opportunities where Marinika capitalised on her already established presence as a Russian TV star and Socialite, also making a name for herself as a style icon among elite circles such as that of Ascot’s Royal Enclosure. Her stunning looks and style awarded her a leading role in the FOX TV show ‘Meet the Russians, representing rich Russians living in London, airing in the USA, Russia and Europe.
She has a Masters degree in Gemmology and an avid passion for advancing herself through taking elective courses at the London Business School. The myriad of creative, commercial and business related aptitude Marinika has amassed is only complimented by her innate sense of fashion, indulging her ardour of all things luxurious alongside her drive and ambition.
