I have lived in Milan, Paris and London before I landed in New York. So America wasn’t the first country that I visited outside of the Czech Republic. I lived in an apartment, which had really, really small rooms. Three girls lived in that tiny room.

How did you find your bearings in New York?

When I started modelling, I thought that everybody else was special, but not me. Trying for a casting can be emotionally very difficult, because you are lonely. The beginnings are always hard. The second time I came back to New York was for a booking. And I was shooting for American Elle with Gilles Bedsimon.

What has been the high point of your career?

The highest high in my career was probably getting the cover of Sports Illustrated, which over 50 million people see. When I got a call for this, I was caught in a snowstorm. I couldn’t believe it for two days. Sports Illustrated always has a big launch party in February and it’s a big secret on who is on the cover. I was living in Europe and they sent me first class tickets. They put me in a beautiful hotel, hired a bodyguard and limo.

What’s the flipside of modelling?

Some people treat you like a hanger. During my initial days in Paris, they talked about me like I wasn’t present in the room. As I was feeling really down, those photo shoots were hard. Another disadvantage is working 24 hours non-stop.

Were your tips for the participants of DTL’s A Model Life with Petra Nemcova based on your experiences?

I was thrilled to share my experiences with these six young women. The New York modelling scene is extremely competitive and it’s important that they learn about life off the runway. A Model Life with Petra Nemcova showcases the real behind-the-scenes work that goes into a modelling career. Each of its episodes has a modelling and life lesson.

What made you move from the ramp to television?

I have modelled for many years. Teaching girls was something new. I’ve learned from them too.

Tell us about your charity work?

I devote about 70 per cent of my time to charity work. My organisation, Happy Hearts Fund, works for the tsunami victims. I still model but more ad campaigns and very selective work.

Which fashion designer do you love?