A post shared by Ambra Battilana Gutierrez ♉️♏️ (@ambrabgutierrez) on Dec 31, 2017 at 6:40am PST

Years after Ambra Batillana Gutierrez was bashed by tabloids for accusing Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein of sexual assault, the 24-year-old model feels vindicated and relieved.

Gutierrez had accused Weinstein of groping her in March 2015 in New York after inviting her to what was supposedly a business meeting.

In the process of telling her story and defending herself, the Filipino-Italian model was called an opportunist, publicity-seeker and blackmailer by tabloids.

“What really hurt me the most was hearing people saying I did it for money and fame but the truth is I have dignity and respect for myself and that's the most precious thing for me, my integrity.”

For two years, Gutierrez suffered in silence. She never got the chance to tell the public about what really took place. But in October last year, the New York Times published a report about the alleged sexual offenses Weinstein committed against several Hollywood actresses and celebrities.

“I just wished they would have come out two years ago, but everything happens at the right time.”

She said she now feels vindicated.

“I know I’ve done the right thing and the truth always comes out.”

Since then, Gutierrez said, she rebuilt herself.

A post shared by Ambra Battilana Gutierrez ♉️♏️ (@ambrabgutierrez) on Dec 17, 2017 at 9:21am PST

“The ordeal taught me to never give up any hard situation because I believe that God will never give you obstacles that you can't overcome.”

The scandal changed her life and career, Gutierrez said.

“It did change me a lot. I learned to appreciate the little things in life more, to be happy with spending time with my family, friends and that I’m in this world with the reason of helping others and that’s what I’m doing and will keep doing because makes me happy.”

On her social media accounts, she posts messages about standing up for women’s rights, protecting women and street children.

“Never silence yourself. Assess the importance of any decision or action. You could be saving a lot of people with the simple act of talking.”

Gutierrez said that after her ordeal, new opportunities have come her way. Archstone Pictures bought the rights to her life story.

She said her life now revolves around modelling and helping others.

She also has campaigns with local fashion brands about women empowerment. She raises funds, donates money, food and supplies for children from impoverished communities through Humanility, a non-profit organization.