Dave does not consider himself an island boy but can trace his maternal roots to a couple of islands in the archipelago of the Philippines. His grandmother is from Bohol and his grandfather is from La Paz, Leyte.
He was all of 19 years young when a chance encounter with an agent in Manila (while on vacation) opened his eyes to the possibility of working as a model. Incidentally, Manila was out of the question since he was going to start serving in the Swedish Army upon his return to Sweden from that short holiday in the islands.
In 2007 (five years later), he found himself a full-fledged model and signed with an agency in Stockholm. His very first job was walking for Milan Fashion Week. This was then followed by campaigns for H&M, GAP, Tommy Hilfiger, DSquared, Nautica, Saks Fifth Avenue and more. He has also appeared on the pages of GQ, Men’s Health and the cover of L’OFFICIEL.
They rest, they say, is history. But, let’s delve some more into the mind of this highly sought after male model.
What was the most memorable moment(s) in you career so far?
I have had many memorable moments in my career that I am so grateful for!
If I had to choose the most memorable one, I would say shooting the Tommy Hilfiger campaign in New York with photographer Daniel Jackson. I enjoyed working on this amazing project and had such a great time with the team! I was overwhelmed with joy to see my face on such a major campaign and to receive pictures from my friends around the world.
Since I started my modeling career, I dreamed of living and working in New York. When I moved to New York eight years ago, I could not imagine all the beautiful surprises this city would have in store for me. I am very grateful for all the opportunities I have had and I pray for continuing success in my career.
Name a place that you have never been to and would like to visit some day?
Palawan has always been on my bucket list, but I haven’t been able to visit yet. I am very proud to be half Filipino. My mother has made sure my siblings and I know and take pride in our culture. I am very grateful she did! I want to be even more connected to my homeland and my family in the Philippines. I am planning to explore the country more as soon as the travel situation is under control.
What are your hobbies?
Sports have always been a big part of my life. When I was seven, I started playing soccer and participating in many different sports activities. My mother would drive me to my workouts if I could not bike there myself. She has always been there for me and my siblings… she is such an amazing mother! Today, I work out mostly on my own. I enjoy strength training, running, cycling, swimming, and surfing. I also love being creative. I enjoy drawing and painting in my free time.
Guilty Pleasure/s?
Candies without a doubt!!! Haha! Especially Swedish candies because we have the best ones.! You should definitely try them if you haven’t yet.
What are your favorite things to do when visiting the Philippines?
I enjoy spending time with my relatives in the province. Eating fruits and Filipino food, enjoying the beach, surfing, etc. Life is so beautiful and relaxing there!
What is your favorite Filipino food?
My absolute favorite is my mom’s Pancit! Love her Lumpia as well. Sometimes I crave sinigang!
What were the Filipino practices and customs that you and your family practiced while growing up in Sweden?
As a half swede and growing up in Sweden, I had two cultures that I feel have enriched my life. I always had a strong connection to my mother and the Filipino culture.
Karaoke haha! My mom has always been singing Karaoke at home and when we visited The Philippines. Filipino family values, like close family ties, being respectful, loving and caring.
What do u wish to accomplish as a model? What do u wanna accomplish as a person?
I hope to accomplish as much as I can, and I don’t think there are limitations to achieving the goals. I want to inspire people to become whatever they want. Always be yourself and have faith in yourself.
I want to be happy in my life. That’s a simple definition, but it encompasses a lot of things. I want to have a healthy family, provide for the people I love, make some difference, stay healthy, and so on.
I am blessed and grateful for an incredible girlfriend and family and wonderful friends.
Follow Dave Lilja on his social channel: IG @davelilja
EDITORIAL – CREDITS
Model: Dave Lilja @davelilja
Photographer: Patrick Xiong @patrick_xiong
Wardrobe Stylist: Rap Sarmiento @rapisoffensive
One Response
so proud of you my dear cousin..congrats on your achievement 👏👏 ….thank you for your support for my family here especially financial matters…we are so grateful to be your relative here in the Philippines..