Can you introduce yourself in a few sentences?

Hi, My name is Nophon, I’m 27 years old and I'm currently based in Sweden. I was born in Thailand and raised by my grandparents before moving to a small town in Sweden. I'm passionate about sports, fashion, and anything that sparks my creativity.

What do you do for work? 

I work as a model and have been modeling for a few years now. I also work in the creative space and am involved in a lot of creative projects, production shoots, design projects etc. It’s a dream to be able to combine both because I really enjoy my work and what I do everyday. 

I also have my own brand. I've been building my clothing brand, @adoreclo_, for over a year now, and I'm proud to say that our first drop a few months ago sold out quickly. While it's still a small brand, I pour my heart and soul into it 24/7, and I'm excited to see it continue to grow.

How did you get to where you are today?

After high school, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, so I tried different jobs while searching for my passion. I knew that I wanted to work with something creative. Because of my interest in fashion, I started posting fashion related content on Instagram. My friend Gustav helped me with outfit pictures, using his dad's camera at first and though we had no idea what we were doing, it all worked out!

Fast forward in late 2018, I got signed with MIKAs Stockholm (a modeling agency) but didn’t start modeling until early 2019. Back then, I wasn’t happy with my life, spent weekends partying, and didn’t care about my job. I decided to make a change. I quit my job before COVID, studied graphic design remotely, and started going to castings and doing test shoots with photographers to build my portfolio. I don't think those around me, including myself, fully understood what I was doing at the time haha. 

Eventually after a few modeling jobs, I landed a big job with Volvo Cars. Looking back, it’s crazy to realize that at the time, Volvo typically only worked with high-profile celebrities or athletes like Zlatan Ibrahimovic for their campaigns and commercials. Yet, there I was, participating in a global campaign for one of the largest car brands in the world. Now years later I’ve worked with brands like Puma, Zalando, Peak Performance and many more. Some people that don’t really know me may assume I’m here only because of my looks, but the truth is I wasn't booking jobs at all at first. Only a few people are aware of the effort, dedication, and discipline required for me to be where I am today. I’m grateful that I made the decision to change my lifestyle and take the risk.

What does living a good life mean to you?

When you can wake up each day with the chance to pursue your passions and goals. Be surrounded by good people, like friends and family who enrich your journey. And, if you’re lucky enough, finding a special person to share the rest of your life with. 

What’s something you wish you’d known 5 years ago?

I wish I had known just how much time and effort it takes to build a lifestyle you want for yourself and how lonely it can be. Although the journey has been amazing and taught me a lot about myself. It is really hard to find a balance between work, friends and when to relax and enjoy the journey and the small moments in life. It is something I've struggled with a lot. I didn’t know it would be this hard to say no to certain things during weekends to stay inside and invest a few hours on your next goal or figure things out. 

Who’s someone you look up to? 

My grandparents, even though we didn’t have much, did their best to give me the best childhood possible. I wish they could see me today and the man I’ve become. 

Besides my grandparents I really look up to George Heaton. The way he built his lifestyle, his brand and the mentality he has is amazing. He is a huge inspiration for me. 

What’s the best life lesson you’ve learnt? 

Sometimes, even when you give your best effort, things might not turn out as you hoped. Sometimes doing your best won’t always be enough. I didn’t understand this until my late 20s, but it’s a part of life’s journey.

What do you dream about?

To reach the finish line. I have this picture in my head that I have been seeing for a few years now. I don’t want to jinx myself so I can’t share it haha. You guys will need to come back in 10-20 years from now and ask me this question again and I can then show you my dream. But I do hope my clothing brand is doing great, and my friends and family are happy and healthy. That's all I can say. 

What is one thing you recommend?

Work out and stay active. Having a balanced diet, healthy body and mind is important for your growth. 

What song would be the soundtrack to your life?

Any Kanye West song, he is my favorite artist but maybe ”Come To Life” or ”Stronger”. 

Finally, give us a hotspot in your city, or a city you love!

I don’t really go out a lot but I do love food and clothes. I live in a small city called Köping. It’s really no hotspots here haha…but I have to shout out our local Thai Restaurant ”Köket Två smaker”. It's the best restaurant to eat at if you are looking for good traditional thai food in the area.  

And if you're ever in Stockholm check out Mama Wolf, a Japanese restaurant. Really good quality food. The workers are very kind and lovely. 

If you are looking for a vintage shop, visit Napoli Centrale in Stockholm. They sell vintage football jerseys, leather jackets etc. It’s a really nice store.