You’ve built a successful career in modeling, from magazines to runway shows. What initially drew you to the industry, and how has your journey evolved over the years?
Nicole: what drew me to this industry was a total accident! I never thought I could model because I’m not super tall and have an athletic body. However, I’ve been a performer my whole life and ended up studying theatre in college. After that I was auditioning for local projects as an actress and learnt I needed head shots. After I had professionally paid for my head shots, I had posted them on a platform for local talent regarding modelling and acting etc. I had received many messages to do photo shoots. I took the chance and started to create content. The camera and I fell in love with each other. My first shoot was 2013; I haven’t stopped shooting since.
You’ve been featured in publications like Playboy and FHM. What was it like seeing yourself in print and online for big publications for the first time?
Nicole: To be honest with you I was stoked! It felt like a dream come true! I never would have thought modelling would be part of my journey. Also, it’s a big f- you to everyone who thought that I wouldn’t succeed as a model!
You’ve participated in Babes of Toyland, a well-known charity event. Can you share what that experience means to you?
Nicole: Babes of Toyland is an amazing opportunity! I’m from Canada so the modelling market isn’t the same. However, being able to attend Babes in Toyland events in the USA has brought an amazing network to my career. I’ve got to meet so many amazing models and photographers at the events. I’ve had content created by reputable press such as Getty Images and Maximo TV! Lastly, it’s a charity event so there are donations that are dedicated to charities for pets, American troops, toy drives etc!
The Vegan Fashion Show is a unique platform promoting cruelty-free fashion. What was it like walking for designers who align with those values?
Nicole: The Vegan Fashion Show was such an amazing experience! It’s Canada’s first large scale, high production vegan fashion show and I’m beyond honoured to be a part of that team. Not only was The Vegan Fashion Show perfectly choreographed and organized, but it shows that its totally possible and desirable to have cruelty-free fashion!
Many people are curious about the behind-the-scenes of modeling. What’s something about the industry that might surprise people?
Nicole: It’s definitely not as glamorous as it may seem. There’s a lot of waiting around, fittings, rehearsals and often last-minute changes you have to quickly adapt to. I’ve witnessed a lot of emotional overloads because not everyone can handle the pressure and chaos of running a show.
Travel & Lifestyle
Your career has taken you to some incredible places, from the Philippines to Mexico and Costa Rica. What have been some of your most memorable travel experiences?
Nicole: I’d have to say one of the most beautiful oceans I’ve ever seen was on my Philippines trip! The ocean was unreal and I got to snorkel with whale sharks which was so cool! But I’d have to say the other talent and humans I’ve made along the way have been priceless! There are people I’ve met over the years that I still go visit on a yearly basis whether it’s business related or life long friends.
When you’re traveling for work, do you have any must-have items or routines that keep you feeling your best?
Nicole: I make sure I get my beauty sleep and am not out partying right before a gig. I limit junk food and make sure I’m in my best shape. It’s important to stay focused and on point and of course in your best shape prior to a modelling gig. Self care shows and is a reflection of discipline and self respect.
You also travel for personal enjoyment. What’s a dream destination you haven’t visited yet but would love to?
Nicole: I’m a wild child at heart and Amsterdam is somewhere I’ve been dying to go to. It seems like it has the perfect amount of rebellion with a dope ass aesthetic.
What’s your idea of the perfect day off when you’re not modeling or working on new projects?
The perfect day off would be to just chill by the ocean in the sun with good food and good company. I don’t have much time to just relax so that is ideal to me!
Performance & Creativity
Beyond modeling, you have a background in theatre, improv, and puppetry. How has that creative training influenced your work?
Nicole: I think my background in theatre has allowed me to have solid facial expressions and not be limited to creativity. For instance, if someone wanted me to do a shoot dressed up as a clown I’d say no problem. It has led me to be more silly and open minded on set.
You’ve mentioned wanting to return to comedy. What kind of comedy are you drawn to, and do you have any upcoming plans in that space?
Nicole: I trained in improv/puppetry at the reputable Second City. I’d love to try both again as it’s been almost a decade. I’ve lived loved and lost during that decade which overall adds to character development that I can tap into while performing.
If you could step into a different creative field for a day—acting, music, design—what would it be and why?
Nicole: I would definitely revert to my old passion of theatre acting. I’m much more confident as a woman since when I did it as a teen/ super young adult and would love to see how I could channel that into the theatre.
Health, Beauty & Wellness
As a model, keeping up with self-care is important. What are some beauty or wellness routines you swear by?
Nicole: I can’t stress this enough; sleep! You need your beauty sleep to look and function your best. Otherwise, I get facials and make sure I’m on top of my skin care routines including mineral based face washes, moisturizers, eye cream and SPF for my face daily!
Confidence is key in modeling and performance. Have you always been confident, or is it something you’ve built over time?
Nicole: Oh hell no! I was definitely very insecure at times in my life. Modelling actually helped me feel free and liberated which unlocked a confidence I didn’t know existed. I still have my moments. It’s hard as hell to stay confident and secure in a world that glorifies perfection and barbie dolls. I’m a work in progress always but I’ve learnt to tell yourself you’re the best, you’ll kill this, you got this no matter what. Your mind is a very powerful thing and it listens to what you tell it. Tell your mind good things and good things will happen I promise you!
Social media plays a huge role in today’s industry. How do you balance staying active online while keeping a health mindset?
Nicole: To be honest sometimes I can get lost in social media and then I shake my head and tell myself “it’s just the internet” because in reality it really is just that. You can use social media as a powerful tool to network and brand yourself but it’s also easy to compare yourself to what you think you’re not and get sad. My advice is to never compare yourself. It’s your journey not theirs. It’s great to feel inspired but once you get too lost in it just shake your head and remind yourself “its just the internet”.
Personal Growth & Future Plans
Looking ahead, what’s something new you’re excited to try—whether in your career or personal life?
Nicole: I’ve been on a healing journey. I’m the most peaceful and sober I’ve ever been. It’s so nice to enjoy life as it is. I’m still continuing my healing journey with therapy, lots of fitness and keeping drinking outings to a minimum.
If you could give advice to your younger self at the start of your career, what would it be?
Nicole: Honestly, I’m a big believer that everything happens for a reason and that regrets are a waste of time. Every negative event I’ve experienced was a lesson and made me the alchemist I am today. I trust my journey.
What’s next for Nicole Procyk? Any exciting projects or goals on the horizon? How can people follow your journey?
Nicole: I will be doing some fashion shows for NYFW this upcoming fall and have some surprise events and publications coming your way. Add me on Instagram to stay tuned; @nicoleprocyk.
Angel wing photography: Bob Marley Domeck
Miami photography: Rusty Smith