Cohesive magazine teamed up with a special individual who exudes confidence, creativity, and artistic ingenuity, which pivots a career on a pathway of iconic, distinguished, and enviable success. This serial winner shared insights on life, career, goals and motivation for a desired outcome. Read below.
Can we get to know you?
My name is Akindele Helen. I come from a close knit family that values creativity, discipline, and faith. Those roots shaped my sense of identity and purpose.I have an educational background that supports my creative path. My training sharpened my eye for form, color, and storytelling.I am a visual artist and a model. I create expressive paintings inspired by culture, emotion, and everyday life. Alongside my art, I work as a fashion model, collaborating with designers and creative brands. My work blends fine art, fashion, and visual expression through exhibitions, runway shows, and commissioned projects.
How did you become a model and for how long?
I started modeling during my university days and began professionally in 2019 when I got signed to Beth Model Management. What started as an interest gradually grew into something I truly love. It was not something I always planned to pursue, but over time I discovered how well it aligned with my creative nature. Modeling became another way for me to express art, confidence, and storytelling. Beyond modeling, I see myself fitting naturally into creative fields. I am deeply rooted in visual art and painting, and I am also drawn to creative direction, fashion-related roles, and visual storytelling that allow me to create and express beauty in different forms.
How did you successfully manage your career while attending school?
I managed my career and school by staying disciplined and intentional with my time. I learned to balance my schedule, prioritize my studies, and take on creative opportunities that aligned with my goals. It was not always easy, but my passion for art and modeling kept me focused and motivated.
At the beginning, what was your biggest obstacle in this career path?
At the beginning, my biggest obstacle was distance. I was studying at LAUTECH, and traveling between school and Lagos took about four to five hours. Modeling jobs could come at any time, so I often had to travel back late to school to attend classes or prepare for tests the next day. Balancing long trips with my academic responsibilities was challenging, and it required a lot of discipline and resilience.
How did you overcome?
I overcame it by planning carefully and staying disciplined. I learned to organize my schedule around both school and modeling commitments, making sure to rest and prepare ahead whenever possible. Over time, I became more efficient with travel and time management, and my passion for both art and modeling kept me motivated through the challenges.
Your biggest achievement so far?
My biggest achievement so far as a model has been walking for renowned designers, participating in high-profile fashion shows, and walking runways internationally. Traveling outside my country, exploring new places, cultures, and meeting different people has been an incredible experience. Each show and collaboration has been a milestone, and being recognized for my unique presence and versatility on both local and global stages is especially rewarding.
Do you see yourself doing something different in the future?
In the future, I see myself growing even more as a visual artist and entrepreneur. I want to be widely recognized as a painter whose works inspire and sell at a high level. Alongside my art, I aim to build successful creative ventures, turning my passion into a thriving business while continuing to make a meaningful impact in the art world.
Do you believe this career has affected your journey in any way? If so, could you please tell?
Yes, this career has definitely shaped my journey. Modeling and art have taught me discipline, resilience, and the value of hard work. They’ve opened doors to new experiences, cultures, and networks, helping me grow both personally and professionally. Through it all, I’ve learned to balance creativity with focus, and it has strengthened my confidence and vision for the future.
What are the challenges peculiar to this industry?
Some challenges include unpredictable schedules, intense competition, and the pressure to maintain a certain look or image. Jobs can come at any time, often requiring travel on short notice and long hours. It can also be mentally and physically demanding, and staying relevant in a fast-moving industry takes constant effort, resilience, and adaptability.
Can you proffer solution(s)?
The solutions are discipline, time management, and self-care. Planning schedules, staying healthy, and building strong professional connections help manage the demands of modeling. Staying adaptable and confident is key to navigating the industry’s challenges.
Do you have a long-term goal in this career?
Yes, my long-term goal is to dive into the business and enterprise side of fashion, combining it with my creativity and art. I want to use my modeling experience to build a brand, create opportunities, and make a lasting impact through both fashion and visual expression.
What are your short-term goals?
My short-term goals are to grow my presence as a model, take on more high-profile collaborations, and continue improving my craft. At the same time, I aim to expand my art practice, complete new collections, and create opportunities that connect my modeling and artistic work.
What would be your pinnacle of achievement in this career?
There’s no single pinnacle in this career because fashion is always evolving. Success comes from continuously growing, adapting, and exploring new opportunities. For me, the goal is to keep evolving as a model and creative, using each experience to push boundaries and leave a lasting impact in both fashion and art.
When you are not stunning runways and billboards, what do you do with your time?
When I’m not on runways or billboards, I dedicate most of my time to painting. I create pieces that explore emotion, culture, and everyday life, experimenting with colors, forms, and stories. Painting is where I fully express my creativity, and it’s both my passion and my way of leaving a lasting mark through art.
Do you think the industry that you are in impacts society positively?
Yes, I believe it does. Modeling and fashion inspire confidence, self-expression, and creativity, while also highlighting diversity, culture, and art for wide audiences. Fashion today reflects the evolution of textile art, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation to tell stories and showcase craftsmanship. Through my work, I hope to positively influence how people see themselves and appreciate beauty, style, and the artistry behind every piece.
Would you consider yourself socially interactive?
Yes, I consider myself socially interactive. My work as a model and visual artist has helped me connect easily with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and creative spaces. I enjoy meaningful conversations and collaborations, and I’m comfortable engaging in both professional and social settings.
What are your goals for 2026?
My goals for 2026 focus on self-development, expanding my creative horizons, and growing my art. I want to push my artistic boundaries, experiment with new styles and techniques, and create more impactful works. At the same time, I aim to continue evolving personally and professionally, building a stronger presence in both modeling and the art world.
What is your message to the world?
My message to the world is to embrace your creativity, stay true to yourself, and keep evolving. Pursue your passions with courage, explore new horizons, and never stop learning. Every step, no matter how small, can lead to growth, impact, and a life full of expression and purpose.
Co. Hesive Magazine 