Helia is a model and influencer based in Toronto.  A woman of many talents, appearing in magazines like Vogue and collaborating with international brands, her dance videos have more than 500 million views globally. Helia went on to achieve the crown of Miss Teen Iran in 2018 and Miss Environment Canada 2019. Helia uses her platform to spread love and positivity.

How does it feel to be selected as one of the Abners Angels?

It feels amazing to be selected among such beautiful women, I’m truly honored.

Who or what Influenced you to become a model?

My whole life I was always told I had a look that was different.  I felt like, because I wasn’t tall or skinny like the models in the industry at the time, that I wouldn’t be able to make it.  After few catwalks and fashion shows, photographers and designers contacted me and follow my social media, so here we are.

What physical features do you get the most compliments on?

I get compliments mostly on my long hair, how do I take care of it.  My body, how’s it in shape and what do I eat.  Also, when I’m shopping people telling me that I’m Spanish, but I tell them I’m not Spanish, but I love Spanish vibes.

What kind of exercises do you do to stay in shape?

After I moved to Canada, I started taking my health and fitness more seriously.  It is

important for me to put my best self forward.  I workout in the morning, during the

weekdays at least three times before work and then two more times on the weekends.  

My workout routines are very HIIT and high-rep focused.  Every day I dance for at

least 30 minutes.  My diet has changed, I’m pescatarian and I don’t eat meat.

Do you prefer indoor or outdoor shoots?

Indoor shoots.  Outdoor shoots are great when the concept matches the scenery or it’s a lifestyle shot. It’s difficult in Canada for outdoor shoots, because most of the time it’s cold.  Indoor shoots have a cleaner look in my opinion and the lighting can be controlled better.

What inspired you to become a dancer and how can customers book a dance session with you?

In my country there’s just a few female dancers.  I wanted to be a dancer to

experience a new world, because it was my dream and I felt freedom after moving to

Canada.  They can book a class through my website Heliaj.com.

Name something that your mother or grandma cooked that was your favorite?

In Persia we call it Kufteh Tabrizi.  It was my favorite childhood meal, but now I don’t

eat meat anymore.

What is your height preference for a man?

I prefer over six feet.

Would you rather live for a week in the past or the future?

Being in future is cooler for me.

What is something about life that people don’t appreciate as much as they should?

The simple things like moments of peace and even moments of reflection.  As we

grow as models, creators, etc. we forget how far we have come.  We are too busy trying

to get to the next level.  Taking a moment to stop and appreciate what you have now

and how far you’ve come are things I don’t think we spend enough time doing.

What do you want to be remembered for?

Someone with a pure heart, brave, who was after freedom, finally found it and gained

what she always wanted.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

Instagram @helia_jalilnezhad.  TikTok @heliajalilnezhad.  YouTube

@heliajalilnezhad. Email: heliamanagement@gmail.com.