Photo story by sasha olsen, iNTERVIEW BY Adrian Gomis Exposito

AGE. Let's start with the person behind the images. Who is Juan-Pierré when there's no camera around and no audience watching?

JPVW. In person, I will always greet you with a smile, look you in the eyes, and make sure you feel seen as an individual. That same principle applies to how I treat myself behind closed doors today.

When I was younger, I would often look at myself and find faults that didn’t truly exist. Then one day, I read a passage that changed my perspective. It said that when we speak about ourselves, we usually use the words “I,” “me,” and “my.” That realisation struck me deeply, because in those moments of self-criticism, my thoughts sounded different. I would say things like, “Your nose could be smaller,” or “Your waist could be more defined.” Never was it “my nose” or “my waist.”

I began to understand that it wasn’t truly me who was judging; it was a version of myself that didn’t really exist, one that was disconnected and critical of who I truly was. From that moment, I shifted my focus back to the younger version of myself, the little me who saw the world with wonder, who believed that beauty comes from within, and who approached life with kindness and curiosity. To this day, I keep a small picture of that younger me at the back of my phone. He looks at me with bright, hopeful eyes, reminding me of who I am at my core. Alongside that image are the words: “DO IT FOR HIM.”

So, when you ask who Juan-Pierré is when there’s no camera and no audience, he is that little boy. The one who believes that beauty comes from within, that patience with oneself is essential, and that growth and success begin the moment you choose to believe in yourself.

AGE. You're currently studying Graphic Design and already have your sights set on becoming an art director. What first sparked your interest in visual storytelling, and where do you think that ambition comes from?

JPVW. When I speak or try to explain ideas, the right words don’t always come easily. But I’ve learned that there is always more than one way to communicate a message. When I think about getting my point across, three things come to mind: being simple, being clear, and being strong. That mindset is what led me to discover Saul Bass, a Mid-Century Modern designer who believed in simplifying ideas while still delivering a powerful and meaningful message to his audience. Inspired by this, I chose to follow my own passion into design, much like he did. Today, I find myself in my second year of Visual Communication studies, continuing to grow and refine my voice.

If you ask where this passion comes from, I will say it started at a young age. I loved to draw and tell stories through pictures. They weren’t perfect, far from it, but that never mattered to me, because I understood the meaning behind them. That belief still guides me today. I don’t see myself simply as an artist or a designer. Instead, I see the viewer as the true interpreter, the one who brings meaning to what they see. In that sense, they become the artist, discovering their own story within my work.

AGE. Design often requires balancing creativity with structure. How do you navigate that balance in your own life?

JPVW. This question is deeper than one might first think. Design has a clear purpose; it isolates a core idea and communicates it with intention. Life, however, is not as direct. It is unpredictable, messy, and filled with endless opportunities. Some days are busy, where you’re constantly moving, trying to get everything done. Other days are quiet, giving you the chance to breathe, reflect, and soak in the warmth around you. This rhythm is one of the few constants in everyone’s life, a balance between motion and stillness.

Within that balance lies your choice: how you respond to these moments. Yes, there will be days when you make mistakes and feel overwhelmed. And yes, there will be days when you succeed beyond what you thought was possible. Be grateful for both, because each one teaches you something valuable. Together, they remind you that while your time is finite, your capacity for growth is infinite. How you spend that time matters. Always remember, if you set a goal far beyond what you believe you’re capable of, even if you fall short, you will have grown far beyond those who aimed small. You will learn new things, meet new people, experience new possibilities, and perhaps even discover a new path meant for you.

So, walk your path with everything you have, and live your truth fully and boldly. The rest will follow naturally.

AGE. Drawing has become a personal hobby for you, especially drawing people. What is it about faces, bodies, and human expression that keeps pulling you back to the page?

JPVW. A face holds emotion and truth. Even when someone tries to hide their feelings behind a smile, their eyes will always tell their story. That is what draws me in. When I sketch people, every detail becomes an extension of what the expression is trying to communicate. A small line, a shadow, or the way the eyes are shaped can shift the entire

meaning of a face. It becomes more than just an image; it becomes a story waiting to be understood.

I think the reason I keep being drawn to sketching faces is that, when words fail me, expression does not. Faces allow me to communicate emotions and ideas that I can’t always explain out loud. In a way, they become my language, simple, honest, and open to interpretation, just like the design principles I believe in.

As I’ve said before, it is ultimately the viewer who interprets the true meaning of my work. Even if my sketches aren’t perfect, they carry meaning for me because I pour my own emotions, thoughts, and time into every line. I rarely show these sketches to others, but I hold onto them with hope. I believe that one day I will display them, and when I do, the meaning within them will find its way to people who similarly see the world, those who search for deeper understanding, connection, and truth. And in that moment, the story will no longer be mine alone.

AGE. You're someone who seems to have multiple creative outlets. Between design, drawing, photography, and modelling, do they all satisfy different parts of you, or do they ultimately come from the same place?

JPVW. Ultimately, everything I create comes from the same place, the deep need to express myself and capture how I feel in each moment. That is what drives me. When I design, I focus on giving my voice a clear form. When I draw, I focus on emotion and what cannot always be said with words. When I take photographs, I capture my perspective, what I see as extraordinary in an ordinary moment. And when I model, I focus on who I am, expressing it through body language and expression. The content itself becomes secondary; it is the feeling it creates that truly matters.

All this stems from one source: my desire to stand firmly in who I am and express it without hesitation. It’s about remaining grounded, being true to myself, and trusting that what I create will resonate in its own way. And in that honesty, there is freedom, growth, and endless possibility

AGE. Working out plays an important role in your routine. Beyond the physical benefits, what does training give you mentally and emotionally?

JPVW. Being in an environment where I can improve my physical health has had a powerful impact on my life. Yes, one of the benefits is looking good and feeling confident, but the emotional growth runs much deeper than that. When I was in school, I kept a low profile. I had a small group of friends, and I believed that people should be valued for who they are and what they bring to the table. Everyone had a role to play, whether it was the one who lifted others’ confidence, the one who offered support, or even the “filler” role, which I often found myself in. The filler role may seem small, but it is powerful. It’s the one who shows up quietly, supports others in difficult moments, holds the group together, and gives without expecting anything in return. It is a role rooted in loyalty, care, and strength.

Together, we created a space where we could protect one another from the pressures and social challenges of the high school hierarchy. Around Grade 10, I realised something important: to grow stronger emotionally, I also needed to grow stronger physically. The two are deeply connected. I started as a skinny, inexperienced boy who felt completely out of his depth, constantly comparing myself to people who had trained for years to achieve their physiques. But I didn’t give up.

Over time, I began to grow, little by little. And with that growth came a shift in mindset. Instead of asking, “Why can’t I look like him?” I started saying, “You gained a pound,” or “Your bench press is 5kg stronger.” I learned that small steps matter, and they build something powerful over time. The same applies to mental health. You train your mind just as you train your body, gradually and consistently. You don’t compare your journey to others, because you are uniquely created, with your own path and your own pace.

The gym became more than just a place to work out. It became a space where I could grow physically and be reminded of my progress, my resilience, and my potential. And through it all, I’ve come to understand that whether I am supporting others quietly or building myself steadily, both paths carry strength. Both matter. And both shape the person I am becoming.

AGE. Hiking has become a new passion. What have long walks and time in nature taught you that city life couldn't?

JPVW. The stillness you experience while on a hike can be truly mesmerising. How can something so quiet feel so alive? Beneath that silence exists a world full of movement, entire ecosystems working together in harmony to survive and thrive. This taught me something powerful about life. Just like nature, we all need an environment that allows us to grow. In a healthy ecosystem, every element has a purpose. The soil nourishes, the water sustains, and each organism plays its part in supporting the whole. When something disrupts that balance, growth becomes difficult. The same applies to us as individuals. To truly succeed and grow, we need to place ourselves in environments that support who we are becoming. That means letting go of things, places, and even people that no longer serve our journey. It’s not always easy, but what’s even harder is reaching the end of your life and realising how much potential was left unexplored.

Another lesson I’ve learned is that true beauty does not demand attention; it simply exists in its truth. And the right people, with the right mindset, will recognise it for what it is. In the same way, you should never feel the need to chase validation. Be unapologetic in your journey. Be fully yourself, without hesitation. Not everyone will understand your path, and that’s okay.

The only people who truly matter are those who see your potential and choose to walk alongside you. They don’t compete with your growth; they contribute to it. They support, challenge, and inspire you to become better. Together, you form your own ecosystem, a balanced, supportive space where everyone grows stronger. Just like in nature, when your environment is right, growth becomes inevitable. So, choose your environment wisely, protect your space, and trust that by staying true to yourself, you will grow into exactly who you are meant to be.

AGE. With photography becoming a bigger focus next semester, how do you think being both in front of and behind the camera changes the way you see images?

JPVW. While being in front of the camera, I take the opportunity to explore the parts of myself that need attention. It becomes a journey of first learning to feel comfortable in my own presence. In those moments, the camera fades away. It no longer feels like something I am standing in front of; it simply exists. My movements and poses begin to flow naturally as I connect with my emotions and express them through my face and body.

I often reflect on the experiences that brought me to that moment, the choices I made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the growth I’ve gone through. I remind myself of how far I’ve come, and I encourage myself to keep going. I step into a mindset of success and strive for an almost angelic presence, one that reflects pure calm, quiet resilience, and clear purpose. At the same time, I approach images, both my own and those of others, with a constructive and emotional mindset. I don’t just look at what is visible on the surface; I look for what is being felt beneath it. I reflect on the emotion, the intention, and the story being told, while also thinking about how it can be strengthened and expressed even more clearly. In doing so, I create space for growth, not through criticism, but through understanding and honesty.

Looking ahead to next semester, I feel inspired to shift my focus outward. I want to explore how others choose to present themselves in front of the camera. It will no longer just be about me, but about them, their stories, their emotions, and the parts of themselves they choose to share with the world. I’m genuinely excited to see what I can create through this process and how I can contribute something meaningful to the creative community.

AGE. You're still early in your career, but already building toward a future in the creative industry. What opportunities are you most excited to chase in the coming years?

JPVW. My modelling career is something I am certain I want to pursue further. I may not yet have a clear vision of exactly where it will take me or what I will achieve, but I’ve come to see that as a strength rather than a weakness. Having no fixed expectations opens me up to a world full of endless possibilities. It allows me to explore different paths, embrace new opportunities, and grow through every experience that comes my way. I believe that by staying true to myself and enjoying the journey, I will naturally find my direction. Opportunities will come, and I intend to take hold of them with confidence and curiosity. That is how I will shape my path, by living truthfully and having fun in the process.

When it comes to my creative career in design, I have a clear ambition: to start my own company and step into the role of a creative director. At the same time, I remain open to where this journey may lead, knowing that growth often takes unexpected and exciting turns. What I do know for certain is that my path is guided by passion, purpose, and the determination to succeed.

I have already taken the first step by starting my own company, JP Media. Over time, I envision this name becoming a space where creativity thrives, a place where individuals can come together, grow, and collaborate to achieve something greater than themselves. This is only the beginning, and I am excited for everything that lies ahead.

AGE. When people come across your work—whether it's a photograph, a design project, a drawing, or an image of you—what do you hope stays with them?

JPVW. When I look at my work, I see the time, care, and emotion that I have poured into it. When others look at my work, I hope they can feel that same energy in their own way. Whether they find a sense of solitude in a design, emotional strength in a drawing, or meaning in a captured moment, I hope that it resonates with them on a deeper level. More than anything, I hope they remember the boy behind the work, the one who once could only dream of being where I am today. I don’t want to tell people what they should see or feel when they engage with my work. Instead, I want them to discover their own meaning, drawn from their own experiences and emotions. Every piece becomes a reflection, not just of me, but of them. When someone looks at a photograph, a design project, a drawing, or even an image of me, I want them to see something familiar. I want them to see a part of themselves. And in that connection, the work becomes something more—shared, understood, and alive with possibility.

AGE. Three words that describe you right now?

JPVW. Intentional, reflective, and expressive.

AGE. The first thing you do when you wake up?

JPVW. Drink water, make my bed and plan my day.

AGE. A place that instantly clears your head?

JPVW. Funny enough, it’s my own mind. I take myself back to a time when all I had to worry about was simply being happy. That memory brings me a sense of calm and reminds me that my younger self is still within me, still believing, still hoping, and still rooting for who I am becoming. In those moments, I’m reminded of the endless potential that once felt so natural, and I carry that feeling with me as I move forward.

AGE. Something you've recently become obsessed with?

JPVW. Prioritising my friends and family has recently become one of my most important goals. I’ve come to understand that true success is not achieved alone; it is built on a strong and supportive foundation. Surrounding myself with people who uplift, guide, and stand by me allows me to grow with confidence and purpose. In return, I aim to be that same source of strength and support for them. Because in the end, success feels most meaningful when it is shared with the people who matter most.

AGE. A creative tool you couldn't live without?

JPVW. Not the camera, not pencils, and not design programs, but the eye behind them. It is my greatest creative tool: the ability to feel deeply and transform those emotions into something visual, something meaningful. It allows me to see beyond what is in front of me and capture what is truly there, the emotion, the story, and the truth within a moment. Through this, I can express myself honestly and create work that connects, not just through what is seen, but through what is felt.

AGE. One skill you're currently trying to improve?

JPVW. My ability to see multiple perspectives in any situation is one of my greatest skills I’m still improving. I’ve learned that there is never just one way to view an event or an outcome. There are always different angles, different emotions, and different truths existing at the same time. This understanding allows me to approach life with openness, empathy, and curiosity. It helps me grow, adapt, and connect more deeply, not only with my work, but with the people around me. And in that awareness, I find endless opportunities to learn, create, and move forward with purpose.

AGE. A song that's been on repeat lately?

JPVW. Help I’m Alive by Metric.

AGE. Your ideal day off?

JPVW. I start my day slowly, no alarms, just natural light and a quiet moment to breathe. I reflect and reconnect with my younger self, grounding myself in calm and wonder. I spend time in nature, letting the stillness clear my mind and remind me of balance and growth. Then I create without pressure, whether I’m sketching, taking photos, or expressing myself in front of the camera, I let emotion guide me. I make time for the people who matter, sharing real moments and staying connected. Throughout the day, I appreciate my growth, no comparisons, just progress. I end my day feeling calm, aligned, and true to myself.

AGE. Something people are surprised to learn about you?

JPVW. I’m a massive introvert. I’m still learning to navigate big social events. Even though I try to be open and engaging, being around too many people can sometimes feel overwhelming. But I see this as part of my growth. I’m becoming more aware of what I need, learning how to manage my energy, and finding my own pace in social spaces. Each experience teaches me something new, and step by step, I’m growing more comfortable in environments that once felt challenging.

AGE. The best advice you've ever received?

JPVW. When you get caught up in your story, it can feel like living in a tiny apartment, just enough space for you and a small mattress. But the moment you create a little distance between yourself and your thoughts, everything begins to open. It’s like moving into a much bigger house. Suddenly, there’s room to breathe, room to grow. There’s space for you, and space for others too. That is what true spaciousness feels like: a life where you are no longer confined, but free to expand, connect, and exist fully.

AGE. A dream project you'd love to work on one day?

JPVW. I would love to create a series of shoots that visually tell my life journey. Not only should it reflect my story, but it should also capture my true inner beauty and my understanding of life. It would be a celebration of the human body, of growth, of resilience, and of learning to fully accept who you are. Through each image, I want to express honesty, self-love, and the beauty that comes from embracing your true self without hesitation. More than anything, I hope it becomes something that not only tells my story but also inspires others to see the beauty within their own.

AGE. What's something you're still learning about yourself?

JPVW. Patience is something I am still learning to understand within myself. Some days, I rush into things too quickly, and it results in something that falls short of what I know I’m capable of. But I’ve come to realise that this is part of my growth. Learning patience is part of learning who I am. It teaches me to slow down, to trust the process, and to give my best work the time it deserves. If I had to be honest about what I’m currently learning about myself, it would be this: to test and strengthen my patience. And with each step, I know I’m getting closer to creating with intention, purpose, and care.

AGE. What does the word "yummy" mean to you?

JPVW. Yummy, to me, is a feeling. It’s that quiet moment where something feels irresistible without needing to try too hard. It’s softness with confidence, something that draws you in naturally and lingers long after. It’s not just about how something looks; it’s about how it makes you feel.

AGE. Yummyzine celebrates confidence, individuality, and self-expression. What does confidence mean to you personally?

JPVW. Confidence, for me, is a calm certainty. It’s not loud or attention-seeking; it’s knowing who you are and being at peace with that. It’s the ability to show up fully, without shrinking or overcompensating, and to trust that your presence is enough.

AGE. The shoot you did for Yummyzine 12 with Sasha Olsen looks incredible, and it seems to have allowed you to step into a different version of yourself. Did you discover anything unexpected while creating these images? How was this experience for you?

JPVW. That shoot allowed me to step into a more open and expressive version of myself. What surprised me most was how natural it felt to let go and simply exist in the moment. I discovered a softer, more fluid side of myself, one that didn’t need to be controlled, only felt and expressed.

AGE. We always love hearing what happens behind the final images. Was there a funny, unexpected, or memorable moment from the shoot that stuck with you?

JPVW. The moments by the window stand out. We were joking about how anyone passing by might be getting a free show while we chased the perfect light. It lifted the energy instantly and made everything feel lighter and more playful. It wasn’t my first time working in a semi-open setting, so the comfort was already there, but those small moments of humour made the experience feel even more natural. It reminded me that even in something as intentional as a shoot, there’s space to laugh, let go, and simply enjoy being present.

AGE. Your images often sit somewhere between softness and seduction. Do you consciously play with that tension?

JPVW. Yes, but it comes naturally. I think both live within the same space. Softness draws you in, and that quiet confidence is what holds the attention. I don’t try to force it; I just allow both sides of myself to exist at the same time.

AGE. You seem very comfortable with your body. Was that something you always had, or something you had to learn?

JPVW. It was something I had to grow into. Over time, I learned to appreciate my body for what it allows me to experience, rather than just how it looks. That shift changed everything; it became less about perfection and more about acceptance and presence.

AGE. What's the most attractive thing someone can do in the first thirty seconds of meeting you?

JPVW. Be present. There’s something incredibly attractive about someone who is fully there, who looks you in the eyes, listens, and carries an ease within themselves. It’s a quiet kind of confidence that stands out immediately.

AGE. What’s your favourite underwear to use daily? Do you have any go-to pieces for special occasions?

JPVW. Daily, I lean towards something classic and effortless; Calvin Klein boxer briefs are always a go-to. They’re simple, comfortable, and still feel intentional, which I really value. At the same time, I don’t like to feel restricted, so there are days when I choose to go commando or just freeball and enjoy that sense of ease and freedom. It’s about feeling connected to my body and moving naturally. For more special moments, I don’t think it’s necessarily about the piece itself, but more about how it makes you feel.

AGE. What's something people fantasise about you that couldn't be further from the truth?

JPVW. I think people sometimes assume everything comes easily or naturally. They always say I make it look easy and that they wish they had my confidence, but there’s a lot of intention, reflection, and growth behind what they see. What may look effortless is often something I’ve worked on understanding deeply.

AGE. And what are some of your fantasies or turn-ons when it comes to sharing an intimate moment with someone?

JPVW. I love it when the person I’m sharing an intimate moment with plays with my hair and tugs at it playfully. I love the electric kisses on my body as they trace every inch of me. Thrusting softly as they compliment me, and then moving passionately to a rougher version of that same thrust. It’s not the intimacy of what is being done but the attention and love behind the moment.

AGE. If attraction had a scent, what would yours be?

JPVW. Something warm and subtle like skin after sunlight, with a hint of something deeper underneath. Soft, natural, but impossible to ignore once you notice it. I’d say it’s the scent of a rose garden. Seductive, romantic and soft but packs a punch if you don’t handle it with care.

AGE. You're building a future across multiple creative disciplines. Looking ahead, what kind of artist, creative, and person do you hope to become? And when people look back at your work years from now, what do you hope they remember about Juan-Pierré Van der Walt?

JPVW. Looking ahead, I hope to become someone who creates with honesty. Someone who doesn’t follow trends but follows feeling, meaning, and truth. As an artist and creative, I want my work to reflect growth, emotion, and perspective. Whether it’s design, photography, or being in front of the camera, I want everything I create to carry intention and to leave space for others to find themselves within it.

As a person, I hope to remain grounded. To stay connected to the younger version of myself, the one who saw the world with wonder, believed in beauty from within, and approached life with curiosity and heart. When people look back at my work years from now, I don’t want them to just remember what they saw. I want them to remember what they felt. I hope they remember that there was someone behind it all who created from a place of truth, who wasn’t afraid to grow, to feel deeply, and to express that openly. And more than anything, I hope they remember that my work permitted them to do the same.