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Interviews  / Stories

Interview: Model Josephine Van Heule (Belgium)

Can you tell us a little about you (yourself)?

My name is Josephine Van Heule, i’m 24 and am currently living in Bruges, Belgium. I have a bachelors degree in Communications and Marketing but decided to continue studying and am currently enrolled in several programs in nutrition and holistic health counseling. I lived in Chicago until I was 18 and then moved to Belgium to continue my studies and have been loving it ever since.

 

If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?

This question would have been easy in high school, my height duh! I’m pretty much 6ft but 5’11 sounds nicer (1m81). As i’ve gotten older though i’ve come to accept and even love being so tall. Everyone has their insecurities but it’s important to love yourself for who you are especially in the modeling industry.

 

How did you start modeling?

I got scouted by the wonderful Elizabeth Bensinger in a shopping mall in downtown Chicago with my parents when I was 13. She introduced me to Ford models and my career took off. I stayed under contract with Ford for a couple of years, great team and a great agency!

 

What do you think of the work as a model?

The modeling industry can be a tough place, you have to have thick skin and understand you’re not what everyone’s looking for. Once you accept the facts it’s easy to just love working. You meet new people, learn constantly about yourself, see beautiful fashion and have fun! There’s up’s and down’s to each profession, modeling has it’s high’s and low’s as well.

 

What is your beauty regimen?

I’ve never really had flawless skin, especially since struggling with acne for a bit in my teens, it’s something that really hurt my self-confidence. The best choice I could have made, however, was switching over to natural products. This last year has really been proof of that. Dr Hauschka and Andalou Naturals are two brands I swear by. I’ve also added carrot oil into my daily face care regimen now that the sun is started to shine again. Rainpharma and Rituals are also some of my favorites!

 

What are your plans for the future?

After graduating i’d love to open a private practice as a health coach and continue modeling as long as possible.

 

What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?

Personality goes a long way in the modeling business, there are sooo many amazing models in the industry, clicking with the client is the best way to get rebooked. I think my open personality makes working with photographers or clients easy. I’m a very easygoing positive person. The modeling world seems glamorous but there are downsides as well, you’ll never hear me complaining though I always have a smile on my face!

 

What are some of your favorite experiences so far?

My first big show was for Vera Wang. The weddings gowns were so long, I remember being so nervous I was sure I was going to trip… but everything worked out just fine! My all time favorite experience was walking for Burberry hands down. I’ll never forget it.

 

Do you have any advice for those who want to start modeling?

Be true to yourself and practice self-loving. Know that you won’t book every job and that’s ok, your not everyone’s cup of tea. Sounds harsh but it’s the reality.

 

What do you think of the magazine?

Modellenland is a great initiative and platform for the industry. I’m greatful to be featured.

 

https://www.facebook.com/jheule

 

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