Confident, fun, vibrant, loyal and driven. Yep, there’s a lot to love about stunning up-and-comer SAMANTHA STUBBS… What did you love about this MAXIM photo shoot, Sam? The energy on set was so much fun – I didn’t want it to end.

I feel so incredibly grateful to be featured, it’s mind blowing for me. Tell us a bit about yourself. I was born on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, completed my bachelor’s degree in the UK and now call the Gold Coast home.

Modelling is a new chapter for me – one I’ve admired from afar but only recently felt ready to step into. This photo shoot was an empowering and unforgettable experience, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead. I’m passionate about health, fitness and feeling confident in my own skin.

This is just the beginning – I’m ready to take it all on. What do you love most about yourself? I love that I’m a soft heart with a strong presence.

I bring warmth, fun and spark wherever I go – I think there’s something really special about that balance. What is the first thing you do when you get up in the morning? When I wake up, I like to start slow, with a warm shower – it’s my little moment of calm before my day starts.

Then it’s all about my iced latte with hazelnut syrup, because a girl’s got to have a little sweetness to her day. It’s the perfect combo to feel refreshed and ready to take on whatever comes next. Do you have a weird quirk?

I can fit my entire fist in my mouth – it’s always a winning party trick. What’s the first thing you notice about a man? The first thing I notice is someone who takes care of himself but also carries an energy that lights up the room.

There’s also something about eyes – they can say so much about who they are. It’s that mix of quiet confidence and certainty, coupled with kindness that really draws me in. What’s the most attractive quality in a man?

A mix of hustle and heart. I love a man who works hard, knows what he wants and takes pride in looking after his woman – not just when it’s easy, but all the time and when things get as hard as they possibly can get. He’s the man who always comes out on top.

If he’s got his life together and remembers how I take my coffee? Game over. What impresses you on a first date?

Effort! When someone has taken the time to plan something thoughtful, smells good, is genuinely present and looking sharp – it speaks volumes. I notice the little things – good manners, thoughtful conversation and how someone treats people around them.

For me, it’s about feeling respected and appreciated and feeling open to give the same back. Also, if you’re kind, treat me well and make me feel like the priority. Got any advice for men?

Show up with intention. Confidence is important but genuine effort and attentiveness make the real impression. Listen carefully, remember the small details and show up being yourself – vulnerability is far more compelling than perfection.

And if you can make her laugh along the way, you’ll leave a lasting impression. Describe your ideal boyfriend. My ideal boyfriend is the perfect mix of success, confidence and heart – driven, respectful, indulgent in all the right ways, spontaneous yet thoughtful, and the kind of man who truly values a woman, making her feel like the she is the one and only.

What’s your guilty pleasure? Late night snacks in bed, wearing something silky and watching a TV series I probably shouldn’t admit to. Sometimes, switching off and indulging in the simple things is the best kind of luxury.

Lastly, what is something new happening in your life right now? I’m getting ready for some exciting travelling. I’ll be going to the UK, Dubai and Greece – some of my absolute favourite destinations.

Flights are likely to be changed more than once and further countries will be added to the trip, but that’s the fun of it – being open to new experiences and seeing where the adventure leads. Variety is the spice of life. STATUS UPDATE FULL NAME: Samantha Elaine Stubbs BORN: March 2 HOMETOWN: Gold Coast Qld FIVE WORD SELF-DESCRIPTION: “Confident, fun, vibrant, loyal, driven.” LIFE MOTTO: “Own your power, live boldly and never settle for less than you deserve.” INSTAGRAM: @sams_xox Photography by ROCKY BATCHELOR For the full article grab the July 2025 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations.

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