Imagine being born in a country where you can't express yourself, love another person of the same sex or risk being killed. Yes, those who live in Muslim countries are living like a ticking time bomb. With so much persecution, many gays are fleeing to live in other countries where they at least have the freedom to be who they are.

Born in Syria, Soli (his stage name) currently lives in Canada and is very happy, posing in various photos, enjoying his cats, going out clubbing with his friends, but his favorite thing is to be at the gym exercising.

We met Soli by chance on his Instagram, when he was posting various photos from the shoot by photographer David Rawe, which were very well done, showing off the furry body of this bear who still wants to be in the bear contest one day.

We interviewed him - after all, we couldn't miss out on this beautiful bear - and learned that he has a wonderful boyfriend, that he helps other refugees to settle in Canada and that he dreams of one day visiting Brazil.

So let's see what Soli has to show us, apart from the beautiful photos he's taken.

Tell us about your adolescence.

Growing up as a gay guy in a homophobic country was quite a journey. Being attracted to big men was always a part of me, but I kept it to myself due to societal pressures. Ironically, I was a skinny kid who dreamed of being big and beefy. Now, I embrace my appearance, always open to adding a few pounds because, as I always say, "bigger is better!"

What is your daily routine like?

Working in social services, specifically aiding persecuted LGBTQ individuals worldwide, can be emotionally taxing. To recharge, I treat the gym as my sanctuary, separating work from personal life. Outside of that, I indulge in music, hearty meals, and quality time with my partner.

Have you ever participated in a bear contest in Canada?

Despite eight years in Canada, I've never stumbled upon a bear contest. But if the opportunity arises, why not give it a shot? Unfortunately, the bear scene in Canada is not as it was before as I heard

When did you become interested in being a photographic model?

I always was, but honestly, I was more confident when I learned to love myself more, and that took time and effort.

You have a partner, how was your first date?

I do have a partner yes, our first day was kind of hot and kind of funny, as I was at the time living in a different city, I came to Toronto to stay with friends and enjoy a weekend where I could enjoy myself and be gay, I go to the dating app and message him and he was right next door, so he invited me over and you know the chemistry clicked right away, we started chatting and 6 months later I moved in with him.

How do you think about the bear community, especially in your country?

I think the bear community in Toronto needs to become more together, I am not sure if the economy or the weather, but there are only two bear events in Toronto. I believe there's room to create more opportunities for our community. In fact, I'm considering organizing my own bear event to foster unity within the community.

There are several bears that are still afraid of appearing in swim trunks or naked in front of a photographer, what do you think about this!

I would say it's completely okay to not feel comfortable in your skin yet. Self-love and acceptance take time. But remember, there's someone out there who adores every bit of you. So, embrace yourself, bear it all, and spread some joy!

You especially like cats, what is their fascination with you?

I do yes, cats appreciate boundaries, much like we do, but they're also quite expressive about them. It's a dynamic I admire and respect.

If a person came and advised you to lose weight because you are overweight, what would you say to them?

My body, my rules. I'm happy with how I look, and any changes will be for my own satisfaction, not someone else's opinion.

What wish have you not been able to fulfill until now?

Visiting Brazil has been a long-standing dream of mine. Despite constant setbacks, I'm hopeful that the opportunity will present itself soon.

“My body, my rules. I'm happy with how I look, and any changes will be for my own satisfaction, not someone else's opinion.”

Soli, Model