Nelli Makkonen is one of the finalists in the Miss Hot Rod 2019 competition and the newest member of our Dark Ride Family. Nelli is currently preparing for the upcoming American Car Show which will take place on 19.4.2019 at Helsinki Exhibition Center and where this year’s Miss Hot Rod will be chosen (REMEMBER TO VOTE!). Despite her bulging schedule so close to the event, the charming candidate immediately said yes when we asked for an interview. Before our meeting, Nelli had been just one of our Instagram followers. But with her positive and inspiring personality, Nelli instantly conquered our hearts – as we say in Finland – 6 : 0. Her answers provide a glimpse into the soul of a beautiful and diligent young woman.
You’ll go far, Nelli!
1. What was your best experience as a grid girl?
I’ll probably never forget the 2016 Imatranajo Road Race event, which is where I got in touch with promotion and motorsport for the very first time. I grew as a human being, I got to meet great people, and as a matter of fact, the event marked the beginning of my career and my big dream. Imatranajo has been getting better and better year after year. In particular, however, I remember the 2017 event. A so-called race of legends was held back then, and I had the honor to assist Giacomo Agostini during the Imatranajo. It was great to meet the multiple world champion, listen to his thoughts and experience the international flair.
2. With which three words would your sister describe you?
“Spontaneous”: That probably reflects the fact that I live the moment. I like to take the initiative and I get excited about new things quickly. The second word is chatterbox. Whenever I look forward to something interesting, I want to know everything about it and I can ask questions for hours :D. My sister also called me fun-loving. I usually see things positively. I always focus on the opportunities in everything and like to make people’s day better.
3. What would you say to a girl who is interested in working as a promoter but does not dare?
Picture: LMSGFX Photography
I think that’s a problem many girls are struggling with. People think too much about what others think about them and do not dare to do their own thing. Of course, before I applied for becoming a grid girl in 2016, I was also worried what the others might think of me. But you can get over that just by believing in yourself, and suddenly you’re a Miss Hot Rod finalist, realizing your own dreams. Today, I’m doing exactly what I love to do.
Working as a promoter is fun. You meet a lot of people, you get to know great personalities, and at the same time you can make friends for life. Every time you learn something new. You also build a network around you, you get to travel a lot and you experience so much more.
Nowadays, working as a promoter is increasingly about personality – and much less about outward appearance than one might think. In our work, what matters is our own personality. We create the atmosphere, we promote products, we connect clients or keep people company. And nobody gives you the evil eye: you just have to be ok with yourself. You can get very far with your own personality and this is your greatest strength. Take the dare and try it!
4. Which of the following cars would you choose: the 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville, the 1970 Dodge Charger or the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro? Why?
I’d definitely choose the Cadillac Coupe de Ville from 1959, either in bright red or in pastel blue. It is one of the most respected classic US Cars. What fascinates me about this model is its beautiful body and especially the “wing trend”. The Coupe de Ville is robust and has very fine lines nonetheless.
5. Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I will be a successful financial administrator in a prestigious job that I can identify with and that is important to me. In addition, I would like to organize events, work as a promoter and have a positive impact on people’s opinions. By combining these two things I would be able to fulfil myself as much as possible. In five years, I will (if all goes well) also own a 1959 Cadillac Coupe de Ville and a streamlined sports car allowing me to travel around the world and enjoy my life! 😀
Thank you for the interview, Nelli! The whole band and the Dark Ride Crew wish you the best of luck in the upcoming competition!
#youlooksofine