At the time of her birth, Valentina’s mother was graduating in college to become a teacher while her father was in the Russian army. At the age of 16, Valentina’s friend gave her a business card from a modeling agency. Although Valentina Zelyaeva had the looks to be in the fashion industry, she was too shy. As a result, she hesitated calling the number on the business card until when her mother accompanied her to the modeling agency.