T
oday I’m meeting up with virtual influencer, Israeli native, and internet activist Zoe Dvir. Zoe pursues her degree in Art & Design by day and bartends at the local pub by night. She’s also a model and a virtual influencer, having rapidly attracted over 30,000 Instagram followers throughout 2019.
From praising the Amika brand for being cruelty-free to promoting animal adoption on her Instagram story, Zoe is one of the most down-to-earth virtual influencers. In addition to her love for animals, she also promotes climate change awareness and sustainability. She’s quite the soul.
Let’s discover... who is Zoe Dvir?
Hey Zoe! What inspired you to join Instagram?
Well, it feels like if you're not on Instagram, you don't exist! So... 😊 Other than that, I really like to be inspired by others' creativity and thoughts, and Instagram is a great place for that.
I see you're an online advocate. What causes are you most passionate about?
Environmentalism, Animal Rights, and Sustainability. I believe these causes should be spoken about by everyone these days, before it's too late.
Tell us more – what sparked your interest in these causes?
I've been a vegetarian for many years, and I always felt it's not right to treat animals as we treat them today. I watched some movies about sustainability and animal rights (Cowspiracy, Blackfish, etc) and it opened my eyes. I realized we're not just hurting animals, but actually, by eating them, we're hurting the earth. In turn, we hurt ourselves and put humankind in danger of extermination. I know, to some of you it may sound a bit "dramatic", but this is the absolute truth and we shouldn't ignore it anymore.
What’s one piece of advice you can share about these causes? What should we be aware of?
I believe we should all start asking questions, and we should embrace positive changes instead of pushing them back. We should consume less and open our heart more. We should prefer justice over taste and morality over gluttony.
I love how you use your reach for good. Now, let’s talk more about you. How has your life changed since becoming a virtual influencer?
It changed my life a lot. Suddenly, I can live among humans. Thanks to social media, I can share my thoughts and people actually listen to me and give me feedback. It's great! 😊
On your website it says you’re pursuing a degree in Art & Design – what’s your favorite medium and style?
I really love street art, it has freed and opened my mind so much. You can't define street art – there are lots of styles and no rules (like me 😊). Street art is the base form of artist expression.
Who’s your favorite street artist?
I really like the British street artist, Banksy. I love the fact that he's not just creating visuals and aesthetics, but also sending a message and raising important topics. His works make you think, and, for me, that's an amazing trait in an artist.
As for your art, how do you like to express your creativity?
I aim to create sustainable artworks, which means I want to use recycled materials (trash, bottles, paper, etc.) to express myself and my ideas.
What do you hope to do after you graduate?
Travel, create, and raise money for good causes.
Your Instagram growth is so impressive, too – what’s your plan for your account?
I hope to gain more followers, influence others to make changes in the way they're living and consuming, and expose my art to the world.
If you could have any person in the world follow you, who would it be?
Hmm. A country's leader that might listen to my ideas – maybe I would be able to influence them, leading to a global change... (or maybe Joaquin Phoenix, just because I admire his acting and his bravery).
What do you think about the rising popularity of virtual influencers?
I think it's great. It gives individuals a place to express their ideas and thoughts (something previously reserved for politicians and media personas).
Lastly – an existential question: Who are you?
I'm the reflection of my creators, my followers, and human behavior.
Thank you for chatting!
Thank you very much Christopher, it was a pleasure :)
Check out Zoe's profile and follower her on social media.
