Interview with Helen Of Joy
Helen Of Joy is a 24-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born in Bath, England and raised in the beautiful Okanagan area of British Columbia, Canada. My family is very diverse, on my father’s side alone, I have cuban, Jamaican, Swedish, Welsh, Panamanian, Indian and Chinese roots! I also found out via a long lost family member we are also related to a native tribe called the Arawak, which is Spanish and African descent. I grew up dancing, modeling and acting thanks to my supportive parents who did the same for my siblings who also act. I also became a major part of the Canadian urban scene, which entailed me surrounding myself with musicians, artists. I began promoting for hip hop and edm shows which has lead to me being a part of battle rap culture.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
I began modeling at a young age, my mum used to be a model as well. I began runway in my teens and in my 20s my work always gravitated back to the arts when I moved to Vancouver and then to Toronto to follow my passions and career.
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
I want to accomplish many things. I want to become a part of a successful tv series and land a few movie roles; Bond girl is something I’ve always wanted. I see myself accomplishing goals with charity work to do with children and animal rights! I hope to gain the covers of rolling stone, vogue and GQ magazine to name a few. Design my own fashion line, run my own talent agency and travel the world spreading good vibes and a good message! I also wish to own a house and have kids perhaps in that time also!
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
I do a bit of everything full time. I want to pursue my acting career more so but shoots definitely help with that industry also! I have a few runway shows coming up in the future as well as collaborations for clothing lines.
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
My best is all the amazing relationships and connections I have made with people I have worked with! It was the best advice I received was to foster your relationships. It’s key in this industry.
My worst is creepy photographers. I’m an incredibly awkward person sometimes but my creep radar is on point. Making sexual or inappropriate advances is not cool!
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
I slipped and fell backstage once, thank God it was backstage! Good advice is to tape the bottom of your shoes so you don’t hit the ground.
Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?
I honestly feel it’s on a good path and will continue to. I’ve been very fortunate that people aren’t afraid of beautiful tattoos anymore and that people prefer mixed race models for the diversity now!
Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.
I practice dance, Pilates and crossfit! I would love to take up boxing as well! I always try and eat healthy and I’ve begun to cut out dairy and red meats!
Please share something people don’t know about you.
I’m a pretty open book about what I feel passionate about! I was considering lately running for president one day. I mean, if Obama can come from nothing and do some amazing things, why can’t I?
Would you change anything about yourself (physical or otherwise) if you could?
Nothing. I’m very happy! Longer hair perhaps!
Are you currently in a relationship? How would you describe your partner?
I am head over heels for my man Nicholas Hyams, who is known to the hip hop world as Lush One; he is a power house of the battle rap industry and he is doing some amazing, next level things for the culture. Can’t wait for him to shine brighter than he ever has before, I’m super proud of him!
Visit Helen Of Joy’s website for more photos and information