Maytee Martinez is going places. Really. The Miami model was selected to compete in the world’s largest pageant competition for models called Top Model of the World 2013. The 21-year-old beauty is currently in El Gouna, Egypt, until the end of the month with 40 other contestants hoping to win the title. Martinez, who has walked for top designers like Carolina Herrera, Roberto Cavalli and Betsey Johnson as well as starred on Model Latina South Beach, chatted with Miami.com about her recently launched swimsuit line, the secret to having a model figure and what her future plans hold.

What are you hoping to gain from the Top Model competition?

I’ve always wanted to compete in Top Model of the World. Now that I have the opportunity I am going to make sure I leave my mark. I’m looking forward to everything on this upcoming trip, meeting all the other contestants and the future opportunities that will come from this.

You co-starred in “Model Latina South Beach.” What are the pros and cons about doing reality TV for you?

Reality TV can teach you many things and help you showcase your talents to the world. The cons is that the way you are on TV is the way people will perceive you to be.

You began modeling at 13 and you’ve gone on to walk in Mercedes Benz Swim Week and model for top names in the industry. What do you love about your career and who is one designer you’d love to work with but haven’t yet?

Modeling has always been my passion. I am very lucky and blessed to work with the greats and legends of this industry. I’d love to work with J. Mendel and Oscar de la Renta.

You are also a designer and just launched Adoro by Maytee by M. What prompted you to start a swimwear line?

A designer and really good friend Astrid Rodriguez from Asuka Collections came to me with the idea. You can check it out on ModelMaytee.com.

You’ve lived a great portion of your life here. What do you like about it?

I love everything about Miami. It is such a beautiful city. It has such a great mix of cultures and people. The weather allows for a very stylish fashion scene.

Being a model means watching your figure and being in shape, how do you stay looking beautiful?

I’ve been a vegetarian since I was 13. I have curves which I love and embrace. I do have to be in the gym more than others because I love to eat. I work out four to five times a week with my personal trainer in Doral.

Future plans?

I see myself running my own fashion empire.

Annie Vazquez