New job for Heidi Klum (50): She will be the new brand ambassador for the cosmetics company L’Oréal Paris. To kick off her new role, she will be appearing at the Cannes Film Festival alongside other stars from the L’Oréal Paris family, including acting greats such as Helen Mirren (78) and Eva Longoria (49).

“What a group of women I’m joining here! I’m a big fan, they’re all incredibly talented and show themselves to be strong personalities who empower women worldwide,” says the 50-year-old happily and talks about her in the interview greatest role models and their greatest strength. The model mom also looks back on a very special moment in Cannes. Six years ago she celebrated her couple’s debut on the Croisette with her current husband Tom Kaulitz (34).

Klum: A strong woman doesn’t give up. She has the courage to pursue what she wants or what she believes in. She accepts who she is, both externally and – most importantly – internally. And she also stands up for others.

Klum: My self-confidence is my superpower. I am my biggest cheerleader and it has helped me build my life and career.

Klum: When I was a child, I dreamed of becoming a dancer. So most of my heroines were great actresses who liked to dance and whom I saw in the films. For example, I adored Ginger Rogers, Marilyn Monroe, Ingrid Steeger, Marlene Dietrich, Romy Schneider, Joan Collins, Goldie Hawn, Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot. They were all so talented with incredible charisma. I was like a sponge absorbing her magic. They all left a huge impression on me. I am still fascinated by strong women and I am pleased that L’Oréal Paris is actively supporting them in Cannes and thus promoting equality. However, my ultimate queen is, obviously, my mother Erna. She is 80 years old and unbeatable.

Klum: That you are the person with whom you want to spend the rest of your life. And of course that they are respectful, helpful and loving. But we must remember that we only live once, so don’t forget to have fun.

Klum: I’ve been lucky enough to be able to attend Cannes for over 25 years and I’ve always found it unique and glamorous. Being in Cannes with Tom felt particularly romantic and magical.

Klum: The preparation starts a few weeks before the big event, when I have a fitting to find the perfect dress. I love trying on beautiful designs… There’s something special and personal about every dress – so it’s fun to try them all on. But there’s usually always one dress that really stands out. As the occasion gets closer, I have a second fitting just to make sure it fits perfectly. On the day of the big performance, I usually need around two hours for my make-up, hair and manicure.

Klum: I feel most beautiful when I’m happiest. This is when I’m rested, my email inbox is empty, and I’ve completed all my tasks. Well, or at least most of them do. I also like to lie on the beach – a little sun-kissed – with my husband and my children to simply enjoy the moment together.

Klum: I think it’s really important to allow your body to repair itself by getting enough sleep, drinking enough fluids and eating healthy. This can work wonders – not only for your body, but also for your own well-being. I believe that happiness is better than any beauty tip or trick. Everyone has to find their own path to happiness here. On days when we all need a little extra support, a great hydrating moisturizer with some concealer, lip gloss, blush and mascara can also help.

Klum: Luckily it doesn’t happen overnight. This gives us all some time to continually adapt, day after day, as we turn the pages of the calendar. Sometimes the days seem to come and go quicker than others, but the ultimate reward is being grateful for every day we get to experience – and hopefully looking back on a long, well-lived life.

Klum: Last year my husband and his twin brother organized a big party for my 50th birthday, which was great fun. I was so touched to see family and friends from all over the world come to share the special day with me. This year I want to spend the day in the garden with Tom, all my children and the dogs, swimming, sunbathing, grilling sausages and laughing a lot. This is the perfect way to spend my 51st!