Six Questions with Christy Turlington Burns

July 7, 2011 at 5:40 am , by Allison Winn Scotch

I’m so very pleased to have Christy Turlington Burns today on the blog. I wrote about her amazing advocacy for women’s and maternal health a few weeks back – and I truly admire how much she’s done to change the world with her foundation, Every Mother Counts, proving that the old adage about beauty on the outside is great, but beauty on the inside is what really counts. And it’s so, so true in Christy’s case. Equally admirable: she hasn’t rested on her laurels; she’s instead opted to return to school to get her Master’s degree, and keeps pushing herself to shift her life in challenging directions. What a great example for her two kids who she’s busy raising in NYC with her husband, Ed Burns.

To keep up on all of Christy’s endeavors, be sure to follow her on Twitter, become a fan on Facebook and check out Every Mother Counts.

1) You’re a busy working mom: how do you manage to find a balance betweenyour work life and your home life?

It’s rarely a totally satisfying balance but I strive like everyone else. In recent years, since becoming a mom, I have narrowed down my interests considerablyand it’s made it much easier to prioritize and focus on the things I really want to do with my time and energy.

2) What is the most important thing your parents taught you?

I think my parents both instilled in me a deep love of travel and culture that has given me a sense of perspective. They also taught me through their example that I did not want the same power dynamic in my marriage, and this was a blessing. My husband and I share our parenting responsibilities more than either his or mine ever did, and I think our children will both benefit from our example

3) What’s the biggest thing your kids have taught you?

My kids are my teachers, about myself as much as the world. They teach me to ask questions and to never stop being curious about the world we live in. They are also relentless with their affections, and I’d like to think they’ve taught me a lesson about how to express love.

4) You’ve had an incredible career as a model, and yet you’ve also opted to pursue a second career, starting with going back to school and getting your Masters degree. I love this notion that it’s never too late to pursue your passion. Can you explain what spurred this decision?

I was a high school student when I started modeling but never fully appreciated or valued education until I was, just a model. I lived vicariously through my sisters when they were in college and then my mom returned at the age of 50 to get her degree, which really inspired me. I started my undergraduate studies at New York University’s Gallatin School at age 26 and graduated in 4 years. I always anticipated returning to school for a graduate degree, however, it took some time before I was certain what it was that I wanted to study. I was so busy between the businesses I started, the book I was writing, getting married and starting my family that it took some time to create the space to seriously consider going back again. Nearly 10 years later, at 39, I began pursuing a masters degree in public health at Columbia University’s Mailman School. By then I was certain that my interest would be this field. I am currently enrolled as a part time student and taking it slowly but I am enjoying every minute and aspect of the curriculum.

5) You’ve also become an incredible advocate for women’s and maternal health, and your advocacy culminated with the documentary, No Woman, No Cry, and the foundation, Every Mother Counts. I know that this was partially inspired by your own harrowing labor, but for many women, they would have stopped there. What inspired you to keep researching/keep going and really pursue this cause? Can you elaborate on the foundation and what it’s meant to you?

I guess it says a lot about my personality, that I never take the easiest of roads. I have found that knowledge is power and pursuing more education at this stage of my life is such a privilege and very empowering.I founded Every Mother Counts as I was completing the documentary, “No Woman, No Cry” as a resource for audiences who wanted to further engage on the issue of maternal health. It is essentially an action and mobilization campaign, and I hope to use our website to continue to educate people about the challenges and solutions in the field of maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health. I believe that these are universal issues that touch each of us and that we all have something to contribute, be it our time, resources or ideas. No contribution is too small and all are meaningful.

6) I think a lot of moms would love to be stronger advocates for whatever charity they support, but may already feel overwhelmed with their busy lives. Do you have any advice for someone to start dipping her toe in?

I think what sets women and mothers (in particular) apart is our capacity to love and to give of ourselves. It’s true that most of us are already overloaded by all that we do but I hope we (EMC) make it easier for busy moms to get involved and to give as much back as they are willing to give. I have found that when women take interest in something, we want to learn and do everything we can.

2 Comments so far

1. by Dee DeTarsio

   On July 8, 2011 at 8:52 am

   Christy Turlington is a class act and it’s great to see her passion and involvement in helping women. (If you want something done, give it to the busiest mom.)

2. by Gregory Paul

   On July 8, 2011 at 2:13 pm

   This interview inspired me. Gracias! I’ve always taken a liking to Christy. She captured me with her looks in her early years but as I followed her I feel I grew spiritually just around the time that she did. I keep her & her foundation in my prayers in hopes that awareness follows the fruits of such labor. Besos & blessings!

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