It’s your time.
Own it

$20,000
Grand Prize

“Age is just a number”
sounds good—but this is where you prove it.

Welcome to Maxim Radiance 2026, a competition created for women 40+ who are ready to step into the spotlight—whether you’re chasing a lifelong dream, starting fresh, or owning your experience.
This isn’t about age. It’s about presence, confidence, and showing up.
 You’re here—and that’s what counts.

Radiance Grand Prize
$20,000 cash prize
$5,000 donation to a charity of your choice
Feature in Maxim Magazine
Trip for you and a guest
2 nights in New York City (photoshoot)
5 nights in Greece (luxury getaway)
Seamless repeating pattern of stylized pink and white abstract floral shapes with a black background.
Young woman in a white halter top and blue bikini bottoms reclining on large brown rocks under a blue sky.
Woman in a sheer white top taking a photo with a camera near the Colosseum at sunset.
A little spotlight. A little escape. A lot of you.

Don’t count the years—make the years count.

More than a competition—it’s your next chapter.

This is your chance to step forward, be seen, and own your story. Whether it’s the spotlight, the experience, or the journey itself—everything here is designed to celebrate you.

Show up, stand out, and make this moment count.

Group of women dancing and celebrating indoors with confetti and party poppers, one holding a sign that reads 'XOXO RANDA ROSE'.

Who Should Participate

Live out your dream, start a new career, or take it to the next level. This is your moment.

01

Women 40+ ready for something new

02

All levels of experience welcome

03

Anyone ready to be seen

04

Those who know it’s never too late

Become the next Radiance winner.
Register Now!

The Judges

*Judges subject to change
Black and white close-up of a woman with tousled hair wearing a partially open leather jacket on the cover of Maxim magazine.
Janel Tanna M.D.
2018 Maxim Cover Girl, Award Winning Actress, Producer and Model

Becoming a part of Maxim is such a special piece of my story. Maxim embraces not only physical, but intellectual and artistic talents. All of what we do combines to make us who we are, and in turn is encompassed in our exterior. Caring about one's mission and health is important. Our own unique features make us beautiful. I see modeling as one's unique beauty, passion and soul combining to create art. Good luck ladies. Shine bright! You are all amazing in your own way.

Instagram Profile
Smiling young woman with long red hair wearing a black top against a dark background.
Karin Agstam
Maxim Fashion Director, Emmy Nominated Producer

As a creative director, I’m always looking for models who bring something authentic and unique to their work. It’s not just about posing; it’s about using every moment in front of the camera to express who you are. I want to see personality shine through the images, that spark of creativity and desire that makes you unforgettable. Stay true to your dream, set high goals and outline the actions that will lead you there. Remember that failing is a part of the learning process and that success is the result of consistency and hard work.

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Gilles Bensimon
World-Renowned Photographer

“Modeling and photography strive to highlight individuality and versatility, working together to convey emotions through imagery. I’m particularly interested in how competitors adapt to diverse fashion styles and express character through their poses. Alongside Maxim, I value authenticity—true beauty is rooted in self-confidence and the unique energy each model brings to the camera.”

Instagram Profile
Elizabeth Nguyen on the cover of Maxim magazine wearing a sheer, plunging outfit and holding purple flowers.
Elizabeth Nguyen
2019 Maxim Cover Girl Competition Winner, U.S. Figure Skating Double Gold Medalist

"My biggest advice is to put yourself out there and share your goals openly with your community—don’t be afraid to ask for support and for people to vote for you.

I’ve decided to leave behind the fear of not measuring up, to fully embrace who I am, and to go after my dreams wholeheartedly. Modeling was always something I dreamed of but never thought possible. Now, I’m living that dream, and I hope others find the courage to pursue their own."

Instagram Profile
Smiling woman with long dark hair in a ponytail, wearing a black zip-up top and gold necklaces, posing with arms crossed.
Deborah Altizio
Maxim Cover Makeup Artist, Award Winning Beauty Specialist

Showcasing your potential for a runway opportunity means submitting both natural and creative photos to highlight your range. Let your energy and personality draw in the audience. Keep it fun, stay relaxed, and take care of your skin. Most importantly, let your confidence and unique essence radiate through every shot!

Instagram Profile
Smiling woman with long dark hair in a ponytail, wearing a black zip-up top and gold necklaces, posing with arms crossed.
Lexi Kaleiia
2023 Maxim Cover Girl, Professional Model

Model Photography is a form of expression, an art, it not only captures and freezes a moment in time but it has the potential to tell a compelling story. Use this competition to tell your story, make your images speak for themselves, have them say one thousand words from the very second someone lays eyes on them. Be your authentic self, be unforgettable. Become the woman you strive to be and portray her using your skills as an elegant and powerful model. I’ll see you at the finish line, I wish every single one of you the best of luck.

Instagram Profile
Smiling woman with long dark hair in a ponytail, wearing a black zip-up top and gold necklaces, posing with arms crossed.
Jessica Carter
2020 Maxim Cover Girl, Hair Specialist

The winner of any Maxim Cover Girl modeling competition should be striking and captivating. One of the most beautiful things about modeling is the personalization and uniqueness of each individual. There is no mold. Art and beauty is subjective, use your edge and compel us to choose you.

Instagram Profile
Group of women dancing and celebrating indoors with confetti and party poppers, one holding a sign that reads 'XOXO RANDA ROSE'.

How it Works

1
Profile

Create your profile. Upload your strongest images and introduce yourself.

2
Competitions

Choose the competition that fits your style and energy. Submit your entry before the deadline.

3
Share your profile

Share your profile. Public votes decide who advances, with finalists reviewed by Maxim judges.

4
Elevate

Winners gain exposure, cash prizes, editorial features, and real career momentum.

Celebrating While Giving Back

Radiance is about more than the spotlight—it’s about impact. The winner will have the opportunity to donate $5,000 to a charity of their choice, turning this moment into something meaningful.

“SHINE BRIGHT. GIVE BACK. RADIATE IMPACT.”

Group of women dancing and celebrating indoors with confetti and party poppers, one holding a sign that reads 'XOXO RANDA ROSE'.

Make a Difference

Maxim will donate $5,000 on behalf of the winner to one of these amazing charities.
Alex’s Lemonade Stand
Devoted to funding impactful research and providing support to children with cancer and their families, with a mission to find a cure for childhood cancer.
Breast Cancer Research Foundation
Dedicated to advancing the world's most promising research, BCRF is the largest private funder of breast cancer research – and metastatic breast cancer research – worldwide.
Operation Homefront
Operation Homefront offers valuable and life-changing programs to support military families. Its relief and recurring support programs address specific financial needs, making veteran and military families more strong, stable, and secure.
Rescue City
New York City foster-based rescue dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating at-risk dogs, providing them with loving homes and a second chance at life.
Model walking on runway in red lingerie with feather and floral details under colorful hanging lights and sparklers.

How Supporters Help

Share your personal voting link with friends, followers, and supporters.

Daily votes build momentum and push you closer to the spotlight.

Confidence gets noticed. Visibility wins.

Three people sitting at a round table outside a café reviewing printed photos while a fourth person with a camera stands nearby.

Guidance from Maxim Insiders

Our team will share tips, inspiration, and insider advice to help you show up with confidence and make your presence unforgettable.

THIS IS MORE THAN A MOMENT — IT’S YOUR EVOLUTION.

Step Into Your Spotlight

Radiance is calling women 40+ to step into the spotlight, celebrate their journey, and embrace what’s next.

Group of women dancing and celebrating indoors with confetti and party poppers, one holding a sign that reads 'XOXO RANDA ROSE'.