Interview: Cover Girl Nienke Jansz (The Netherlands)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Nienke Jansz. Born and raised in Zeist, a small town in The Netherlands. I studied music (vocals) in Utrecht and besides that I started modeling. Once I graduated I moved to Milan, then Istanbul and then London where I ended up staying. Now, 6 years later I’m a fulltime model with 9 agencies world wide and several singles out with more than 100,000 streams.

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

I wouldn’t want to change anything physically even tho ofcourse I have my insecurities. But, sometimes I wish I would be able to stand up for myself more and say no.

How did you start modelling?

I started modeling in 2015 when I was still studying music. I was applying for loads of agencies and got so many rejections until one small agency said yes. I ended up signing with this small agency in The Netherlands and from there it started rolling. They signed me with an agency in Milan soon after. Then Istanbul and London followed that same year. And I ended up staying in London.

What do you think of the work as a model?

I think it comes with pro’s and con’s like any job. It’s definitely not for the faint hearted. It’s a tough industry and not as glamorous as it’s made out to be.

I remember my first agency in Milan told me to loose a couple of centimeters from my hips before coming to Milan. As I was so excited I did, i was very skinny. But as I was so proud and excited I did it. Then in Milan when I had my first job there was a client on set that said was too big. Luckily I am someone with thick skin so it didn’t effect me much, but I can imagine something like this could really damage a young girl. Since that moment I decided that I didn’t want to do any jobs that required me to be unhealthy or unhappy. So I focused more on the commercial side of modeling. I stayed in London because the market in London is more commercial and more fun and easy going. You can be any size or height here and there’s jobs for you. I think it’s important to find an agency that loves you for who you are and that’s the right fit. Then ofcourse the traveling, the people you get to meet, the places you see, the shoots you get to do are all things that you will remember forever.

What is your beauty regimen?

I love to workout. I grew up playing field hockey and ballet so I’ve always been active. Nowadays I train 5 times a week in the gym. I do mostly weight training mixed with hiit cardio to stay in the best shape I can be.

I do not restrict myself food wise, however I try to nourish my body with mostly healthy foods. But if I crave something, I will have it.

I think when it comes to skincare less is more. I don’t do much besides serum at night and sunscreen in the morning, and loads of water during the day.

What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?

I think I am very friendly, I always try to make people feel comfortable and make people laugh. On set we always have the best time and I think that’s so important. I am also very hardworking. If I want something, I will do everything to get it. Even if it takes years, I don’t give up easily and that’s what got me where I am today.

What are your plans for the future?

I would love to move to the US and work there for a while. My dream is to work with Si Swimsuit. Let’s see where the future takes me.

What are some of your favorite experiences so far?

It’s hard to choose, but I think one of my favorite experiences was shooting winter clothes in 40 degrees celsius in Egypt, or shooting swimwear in Cape Town with Penguins in the background! Moments I’ll never forget.

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

Don’t start too young, make sure that you have a plan B, finish your school or degree first.

In this industry you get a lot of rejections, but don’t let them effect you. They’re not personal, you’re just not what they’re looking for. Make sure that modeling is enjoyable for you, and you’re happy and healthy. And lastly don’t give up! It’s easy to give up but the best things come to those who do not.

What do you think of the magazine?

I love it! My first publication in Modellenland was in 2014 I believe. Just before I started modeling! It was an editorial I’ve done with Ivo Schrage. Time for an update I believe.

Facebook, website, instagram: @nienkejansz