A new generation of supermodels is here. They’re on the world’s runways, magazine covers, music videos, and iPhone screens. They are everywhere in our connected world. As summer rolls in, they prepare for some well-deserved rest and relaxation — even in the face of COVID-19.

The spotlight is on He Cong, lensed by Inez and Vinoodh and styled by George Cortina. The model has walked the big brands like Dior, Givenchy, Alexander McQueen, and Prada and was most recently seen in Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2021 portrait series — also shot by Inez and Vinoodh. We asked the model about her childhood memories, time spent in quarantine, and all the things she’s looking forward to this summer. Pre-order your own copy of V125, here.

Read the full interview, below.

 

V MAGAZINE Where are you from?

He Cong Changsha in the Hunan province of China. It’s a big city with a lot of history.

V What is your favorite summer memory?

HE When I was younger, my cousins and I would go to my grandparent’s house for the summer. They lived in a small village outside of Changsha where we would swim and play in the lake all day. We did a lot of outdoor activities – this place brings me so much happiness and holds the most beautiful memories for me.

V How did the onset of this year’s public health change your outlook on life and/or work?

HC It makes me appreciate what I have. Finding strength in optimism, getting support from my family and my agencies, giving support to people in need, all these are what is keeping me going in such times of uncertainty.

V What have you learned while in solitude?

HC While in solitude, I challenged myself to learn cooking, I have recently bought a lot of cooking books, which I am excited to cook a new dish every day.

V The public health climate has shaped many people reading and viewing habits. What are some of the reading or viewing materials you’ve sought out at this time?

HC Putting social distancing into practice, I spend more time reading online. I spend a lot more time reading the news to update myself with the latest development. Staying informed is the best way to stay calm at such a time.

V When you’re not modeling, what are you up to? What would people be surprised to hear?

HE I play a lot of RPG games – mostly Chinese ones. Honor of Kings is my favorite.

V How would you describe the current wave of models?

HE I think that the modeling scene has progressed a lot. The industry is becoming more inclusive and breaking down the stereotype of what beauty is. It is so nice to see this new generation of models from diverse cultural backgrounds as well as body shapes. I feel really proud to be part of this globalized model tribe! I have made friends for life through this industry.

V: How do you feel in front of the camera?

HE I feel really comfortable, I enjoy seeing myself portraying different characters.

V What do you hope for this year?

HE I hope we can get past the coronavirus very soon and everything can be back to normal.

V Many people are reevaluating travel plans… If you were to be in one place for most of the summer, where would that be?

HC Bali, Indonesia.

V What is the ultimate summer song?

HC “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac.

V What is on your summer reading list?

HE ‘My Year of Rest and Relaxation’ by Ottessa Moshfegh – and V Magazine!

V How are you giving back in light of the current public health climate?

HC I do what I can in my capacity to help whether it’s the donation of money or giving health kits or distribution of masks and disinfection gels. But self-discipline in ensuring you are not putting yourself or others in danger by safe distancing, self-quarantine, washing your hands regularly are the most responsible things anyone can do right now.