Mats

Star Sign: Sagittarius

Where are you from? Porsgrunn in Norway

Languages: Norwegian, English and basic Russian

Find me on Instagram: @mats.florell

How did you feel when you found out you were going to the World Final? I told every person I knew immediately. It was really exciting!

When did you first want to become a model? A couple weeks ago. I’ve thought about it before, but I didn't think of trying it until then.

What would it mean to win the contest? It would be confirmation that this is the place for me. 

What are your hobbies and interests? I’m very interested in engineering, drawing, painting, and urban exploration.

Three words you would use to describe yourself: Everything, everywhere, always.

What is a small thing that makes you happy? My wristband. I'm a very sentimental person and it was given to me by a friend before they moved. We’re still in contact, of course, but it's a beautiful reminder of our friendship.

Who is your style icon? I love Marlon Brando, Steve McQueen and James Dean for their casual, delinquency style from the 1950s - the typical white t-shirt with jeans or chinos that have a rough look to them. They pull it off beautifully. 

What is one item in your wardrobe you would save from a fire? My leather jacket, it's literally the best piece I own.

What is a song that always lifts your mood? Mr Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra. Its rhythm is so upbeat that I just can’t stay in a bad mood when listening to it!

What is the last book you finished? I haven’t finished many books but I’m currently reading the Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. Its descriptions of the carnival and Piazza Del Popolo make me particularly excited to visit Rome.

What are your favourite subjects to study? I love physics and art, although my best subject has always been English.

Tell us about the cause you care about: I care greatly for increasing human life quality in general. It's upsetting that so many people all over the world suffer for uncountably many reasons. If I could do something to end all suffering, I would do it in a heartbeat.

What would be your dream career if modelling did not exist? I would likely be an engineer, as I’m already in the process of becoming one. 

A travel memory that has stayed with you: When I was six, I went on a family trip to Turkey. I was in the pool with my parents and followed them into the deep end where I started sinking under the water, like in a movie. My hands slowly disappeared from the surface, before my mother pulled me up and rescued me. The craziest part was that the lifeguard was taking a nap while it happened. 

Vacation - beach, mountains or city break? City break. 

How much do you like to prepare? I plan first, and then wing it!

Name the top destination on your bucket list: Italy.