Kim says, "Despite the affluence, at only 31 I've been able to build my own empire in the world of entertainment."

Kim Kardashian maintains that she built her own success despite being born to a wealthy and influential Los Angeles family.

The 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians' star said that despite being born affluent, she deserves her success.

She told L'Uomo Vogue: "Yes I was born rich; it was a classic Californian lineage: lavishness and ostentation, luxury mansions with pools, private clubs, exclusive friendships, and luxury cars.

"Despite the affluence, at only 31 I've been able to build my own empire in the world of entertainment and, although looks and friendships are important, I want the new generation to understand that if you don't believe in yourself and in your own ideas, you go nowhere."

Kim - who helped her entire family shoot to fame - insists she didn't have her own identity as a youngster.

She admitted: "I've always been very shy, ever since I was a girl.

I copied and did everything my sister Kourtney asked me to do, even when at school she would put me in embarrassing situations with boys. She was my idol."

Twice-married Kim - who is currently in the process of divorcing Kris Humphries - says her relationship with Kanye West is going to be a more private matter.

She said: "In the past I suffered a lot because of my honesty, and when it didn't work I was criticized and treated badly: I can only say that now, with him, I'm happy."

© Bang Showbiz