Meet this month’s cover star Monique Lester / @Freya_1138
Photography @speedlitephoto
Makeup @sofia.hausoffemme
Tan @nakedtan
Hair @southernriver.manerepublic
Dresser @keto2fatnback1138
So good to have you join the FHM family. Can you please tell us a bit about yourself? I am honestly so grateful and proud to be a part of the FHM family, Thank you so much for having me! I’m a proud mum of two boys and recently reconnected with my lifelong love for modeling and creative expression. After navigating life’s challenges and growing through them, I’ve found my confidence and passion again, now stepping into my prime as a glamour and photographic model. I balance my days between family life, fitness, and my rewarding work as a disability support worker. With a strong sense of purpose and an amazing support system behind me, I’m embracing this exciting chapter wholeheartedly.
Which three words describe you the best: Reliable, trustworthy, and genuine.
Who is your celebrity crush? That’s such a tricky question for me, as I don’t really have one to be honest. If I had to choose one, it would probably be Chris Hemsworth.
3 things that you can’t go a day without. Makeup wipes I use these of the morning just to make my skin feel refreshed and smooth. Toothbrush and Toothpaste- Definitely not going to have bad breath and morning teeth. Hairbrush- Another necessity I can’t go without for the greater purpose of having nice comfortable mess free hair.
What is the biggest misconception people have about you? People often assume I’m intimidating or ‘bitchy’ because I’m direct and unapologetically honest. The truth is, I’ve been through a lot in life, and it’s made me strong, resilient, and less concerned with sugar-coating things. But underneath that toughness is someone deeply loyal, kind, and caring. You just have to take the time to really see me.
How would you describe your personal style, and how has it evolved over the years? I’ve always been a total Barbie at heart, the ultimate girly girl who lives for pink, pretty dresses, and standing out in a crowd. My style is ultra-feminine, sexy, fun, and unapologetically glam. I love putting creative looks together that reflect my personality, being unique, playful, and just a little bit extra in the best way.
What’s on your bucket list of things you want to accomplish or experience? I have yet to travel overseas, and I’m eager to explore new cultures and expand my understanding of spirituality, especially through visiting ancient temples and iconic wonders like the Eight Wonders of the
World. Beyond adventure, I dream of creating our perfect home and finding true contentment in life.
What are some must-haves in your wardrobe right now? Honestly, all my dresses and heels are must-haves. I have always loved how a great dress can completely transform your look. Growing up, I was the girl who’d wear a dress once and then want a new one for every occasion. Now, I’ve learned to appreciate the value of investment pieces and the beauty of wearing something more than once. It’s about style with purpose and making every outfit count. I also just ran out of space for rooms full of clothes.
How do you balance the glamorous image with your everyday life? Is there a side of you fans don’t often see? There’s definitely a side of me most fans don’t see, I’m a devoted mum first and foremost. While I love the glamour, I can’t wait to come home, wipe off my makeup, tie my hair back, and relax in my PJs with my boys. I’m just as comfortable being the sweatiest girl at the gym as I am being glammed up for a shoot. Confident and bold on the outside, but at heart, I’m a down-to-earth woman who treasures family and the simple moments.
Outside of modeling, what are some of your passions or projects you’re currently working on? Modeling is my biggest passion, though it can be challenging here in Western Australia with limited paid opportunities and the added pressure of balancing travel costs to go interstate or overseas and motherhood. Still, I refuse to give up on what I love. It’s only the beginning for me. Outside of that, I’m deeply passionate about my work in disability support, my beautiful family, and hitting the gym daily to stay both physically and mentally strong.
What is your favorite body part on you? on him? My favorite feature of myself? Definitely my face, especially my nose, plus my bum and abs, which I work hard for. As for my man…I’m in awe of his strong arms and chest, those quads, and, let’s be real, the most fun part of him definitely isn’t rated PG.
If you could be any animal, what would you be and why? If I could be any animal, I’d be a panther, there’s something so quietly powerful and beautiful about them. They move with grace, never needing to shout for attention, just effortlessly captivating. I love their connection to the night, the moon, and that soft, mysterious energy that feels both strong and feminine.
That said, what advice would you give to all women regarding love and relationships? My biggest advice for women is to love yourself first and always prioritize your own well-being until you’re certain that the person you’re with will never hurt you. So many relationships today falter because people move on too quickly or get caught up in appearances and attention, losing themselves along the way. True love is about a genuine connection, not just sex or money, and it’s never all about one person. It’s okay to feel insecure sometimes or to take your time trusting again after past hurts. The key is to find someone who loves you for who you really are, shares your life goals, and wants the same future. When that alignment happens, everything else falls into place.
In what ways do you use your platform to inspire or influence others? I want women to know they’re all beautiful, unique, and gorgeous in their own way. It’s not about competition, it’s about lifting each other up and recognizing that we’re all queens. I’m fortunate to have a circle of women who support my confidence, even if it’s a small group, it’s a start. I want to empower everyone to feel amazing about themselves. My journey from escaping domestic violence in the past and surviving near tragedy has taught me to value and care for myself deeply. Through my platform, I share my modeling art and messages to inspire confidence and self-love. Every post, and every quote, is a reminder to embrace the goodness in life and never let anyone dim your light. Stay beautiful inside and out.
Thanks so much for your time. Where can our readers follow you on social to stay updated on what you’re up to? Thank you so much again for this incredible opportunity. You will find me mostly on Instagram @Freya_1138 where I share all the latest moments, photos, and professional life. I also have my website, moniquelester.com.au, and for a more playful side, check out my Playboy profile at playboy.com/freya_1138.
