Exclusive Interviews with Top Jewish Models - Shon Balaish

After the success of our Top 20 Jews In The Arts feature, we decided to branch out to other areas of interest: Models and Sports. Over the next two weeks, Shalom Life will profile a different Jewish model or sports figure each day.

Our readers really loved the format we introduced during the Artists feature- asking the same questions to everyone involved. It allowed for us to not only learn about these icons, but also have fun comparing answers. We have carried over this same format to the Model and Sports profiles. Enjoy!

Shon Balaish

Shon Balaish, 24, was born in Tel Aviv, Israel to a small Jewish family. Three years ago, a modeling scout approached him while shopping with his friends in a mall in Tel Aviv. At first, Balaish was hesitant about contacting the scout and pursuing a career in modeling. It took him just over six months to make the phone call. After signing with the agency, he got his first high profile job within 3 days. The rest is history.

During the first 6 months of his new career, Balaish worked mostly in Israel for national brands including Castro and Delta. Since then, he has modeled for designers and magazines internationally. Some of the more notable campaigns include Jaansport, Ed Hardy, and PUST, Vivienne Westwood, and Dolce & Gabbana.

Ashley Baylen (AB): Was there a moment when you realized this would be a career instead of a hobby or passion?

Shon Balaish (SB): Yes. I have always believed in myself and I knew from day one that there is a long way ahead of me in the fashion industry. To me it was always more than a hobby and I take it very seriously.

AB: In your weak moments, what food item do you allow yourself to pig out on?

SB: This is a sensitive subject for models but I want to be honest and tell you that my weakness is Chocolate of course. My favorite!

AB: When you’re not working, what do you enjoy doing?

SB: I love working out at the gym, I love the Tel Aviv beach, shopping, party in Tel Aviv with my friends.

AB: Rapid fire. First thing that comes to mind. What your favorite movie?

SB: Titanic

AB: Band?

SB: Enrique Iglesias

AB: Book?

SB: The Secret

AB: TV Show?

SB: CSI: NY

AB: Gadget?

SB: My iPhone

AB: Was there ever a moment when you wanted to switch careers? If so, what career would you have chosen?

SB: I would never switch career as I love my job very much. For me it’s a dream come true. But if I had to in the far future I will choose to become a lawyer as I am a law student right now.

AB: What do you regard as your biggest achievement?

SB: Being an international model in the biggest fashion capitals in the world and representing my country Israel with pride and respect.

AB: You have unlimited funds to plan your dream vacation. Tell me about it. Who would you bring?

SB: With unlimited funds I would probably choose to travel around the world and explore as much as possible because I love traveling new countries. To be specific.

AB: Share something about yourself that we may not know.

SB: I am a very sensitive and religious guy. I am a strong believer in God. I am the kind of guy that will always reach the goals I have made for myself.

AB: What's your biggest fear?

SB: I fear the most death and old aging. Losing my loved ones to death is my greatest fear.

AB: Can you provide a piece of advice for anyone considering entering the world of modeling?

SB: My best advice would be to believe in yourself, follow your heart and your greatest dreams, not to break and get offended by any insult or rejection. In addition to that, one should know to choose carefully who he works with in this industry and stay away from the wrong kind of people.