With a degree in nutrition, Valeria began her YouTube channel talking about health and well-being but became a quick hit on such a saturated platform. Over the years, she’s accumulated five million followers across multiple platforms.
Talking about beauty, wellness, and motherhood, Valeria received 104 million views for her pregnancy transformation video; three million for her birthing vlog; over a million for “Eight Instant Ways to Look More Attractive”, and half-million for “10 Weight Loss Mistakes”
This required a team, which is Valeria Inc.—a media company working directly with clients and agencies, and her latest venture is an e-commerce operation that touts her fashion, jewellery, and accessory brand, Verie.
How did you begin your modeling career?
When I was 14, I used to live in Israel and there was a contest. My mother encouraged me to apply, but I wanted to work at McDonald’s. So the deal I made with my mother was, if I didn’t win, she’d take me to McDonald’s to get a job.
Mom drove me from Be’er Sheva to Tel Aviv (an hour and a quarter away), and I participated and won first place.
How has your career as a model and influencer impacted your life?
I used to be an introvert, but my mom believed in me. Living by myself in Paris and London gave me independence, and that’s when life went from being a regular teenager, to achieving fame in the modeling industry. I met my husband when I was 20 and got married at 21, stepping away to start a family.
I started doing YouTube when I was 26, and quickly went from being an introvert to communicating with millions. I had to gain confidence on camera, learn how to be a better businessperson now that I’m operating multiple businesses. Becoming an influencer gave me an accelerated business education.
What do you think of the fashion industry?
Fashion is evolving and is now inclusive. The industry is at a point where inclusivity is breaking down barriers. Also, fashion now is very tied to practicality, instead of trying to achieve beauty. It is more accessible for everyone, and a lot of brands are focussing on the sustainability factor.
How would you describe your fashion style?
It’s elegant, versatile, practical, and timeless. I am a big believer in investing in handbags and shoes. Specifically, bags, because these are items that don’t wear out, and we can use them for a very long time. The great thing is that what I wear online, people buy that and wear it the way I do. Then I can take an article of clothing, an outfit, and wear it in multiple ways.
What are some of today’s biggest challenges as an entrepreneur and businesswoman?
Finding the balance between work and family, and well-being and fitness. Scheduling is a challenge, and managing time — especially quality time with family — and developing, sustaining,
and maintaining the business. I’m in the middle-age range of many influencers and finding myself in a position where I can still appeal to all demographics and stay authentic is another challenge.
You have a new line of branded jewellery and apparel — an e-commerce company called Verie. How has that been going?
It is a separate organizational structure. We just hired a senior VP/general manager who comes with 20 years of e-commerce experience. Along with the CEO of my media company, Valeria Inc., that person is running the e-commerce. We have ready-to-wear coming down the pipe in a month or two.
As a mother of three and with a hectic lifestyle, how do you manage to stay in shape?
I have a personal trainer, and a supportive family. I’m committed to my workouts, regardless of how busy my day gets and maintain a realistic balance in my diet when I’m travelling or between meetings, photoshoots, and phone calls.
Pragya Bisen | Contributing Writer
