A Tryst With Montreal Escort Kira Nielsen

Thanks for joining us for our sex worker interview series, A Tryst With... Today we're discussing escorting, opera, and Bioshock with Montreal Escort Kira Nielson.

Can you tell us your “origin story” as a sex worker?

Once upon a time, I was a student living abroad and had the world’s most open-minded roommate. In our second week of cohabitation, she casually mentioned, mid-leg shave, that she had a date lined up and, oh, she also happened to be an escort. At the time, I was going through something of a rebellious phase, reading several books about sexual liberation. “Come As You Are” by Emily Nagoski, “Sexual Politics” by Kate Millett, “The Purity Myth” by Jessica Valenti. You get the picture. My curiosity about exploring my own sexuality was already piqued, and my roommate’s anecdotes – both captivating and cautionary – only fuelled my intrigue. 

I remember thinking, “I can do this,” and then life decided to throw me a curve ball, almost as if pushing me in this direction. My beloved cat back home fell ill and my parents did not have the money to hospitalize him. And so, one day, I just did it. I asked my roommate how to start and she introduced me to her agency. I’m lucky. I started at a wonderful place with even more wonderful people. The agency owner had been a provider herself and she was fiercely protective of us. The rest, as they say, is history. Oh, the cat ended up getting the treatment he needed and lived happily ever after, fat and content.

What’s an aspect of being a sex worker that you really love?

I know it might sound cliché, but it's the freedom that truly stands out for me. This line of work grants me the flexibility to dedicate myself to the things I hold dear – writing, advocating for animal welfare, and spending time with family. It's a freedom I wouldn't have with a traditional 9-5 job. I am terrified of spending my life chained to a desk, weighed down by bills, a hamster on a wheel that never stops as the economy continues to deteriorate. I can pursue a Master’s degree in history on my own terms while still working weekends in the field of animal healthcare because being a provider affords me this financial privilege. It's a remarkable gift that allows me to blend my passions seamlessly. I want to write a book. I want to save all the cats and dogs. I want to take my grandma to all the expensive and wondrous places she’s never seen because she spent her life working at a factory. I can do this now.

Can you tell us some benefits and drawbacks of the sex industry?

Loneliness is an undeniable aspect of this job. Sadly, there's still significant stigma attached to what we do. Many of us carry this burden in silence, unable to confide in our families and closest friends. It's like living a double life, constantly hiding behind white lies and evasions. On the flip side, there's the appeal of being our own bosses – who wouldn't love that? No more calling Jean in HR to explain traffic delays.

What are your top three tips for nervous first-time clients?

Take a breath, indulge in a soothing shower, and then breathe again. :) By then, you'll be as serene as a moonlit evening. Ha! I feel like some awful, yet funny, purple prose always calms the jitters. Remember, we’re just as human as you are. We also feel the flutter of nerves, the rush of excitement, and get the sweaty palms that come with being overwhelmed. At its core, this experience is about two people connecting. So simply be yourself, share a laugh, or toss in a pun. No need to put on a mask; I desire authenticity and offer the same in return.

What’s the proudest moment of your career?

One of my most cherished moments will forever be the ability to afford top-notch medical care for my family members. As immigrants, they made immense sacrifices to ensure I had a better life. While I will never be able to give back in equal measure, I'll never stop trying. Overall, this career has allowed me to invest financially into things that are important for me. I am so, so proud of the animals I’ve saved through donations of skills or finances, and the burdens I have lifted off my family.

Is there anyone you'd recommend allies follow to help in their education around sex work?

Without a doubt, local providers who are actively engaged in activism are the ones to seek out. There's no substitute for the guidance of a mentor. I count myself incredibly lucky to have crossed paths with a friend who, from the outset, took me under her wing without me ever having to ask. Not only did she teach me the ropes, but she also introduced me to the vital organizations championing our rights, while pointing out the ones that only masquerade as such. You can learn so much online, but it will be about the bigger picture. For more specific knowledge, you need to look for sources close to home.

You mention that one of your favourite things are quirky historical facts. Can you share one with us?

Oh, this one’s a gem! Now, I’ll be honest, I was never able to verify its authenticity through primary sources, but it was told by a hilarious professor during my undergrad. So, picture this: during the Decembrist Revolt, there’s this group of rebels who completely miss the uprising because they’re too busy arguing on a bridge. For two hours. About what? Well, whether the word “constitution” (not exactly part of Russian vocabulary at the time) was actually the name of the new wife of Constantine (the brother of the dead emperor).

You’ve said that you’re passionate about music, particularly musicals and opera. What about these forms compels you? What are some favourites?

I’ve been studying classical voice since I was twelve years old. I grew up devouring baroque pieces as they were what best fit my voice. I loved them. They were airy, light, fun to sing. Musicals were a natural extension. I was thirteen when I saw an ad for “Don Juan”, a French musical, and begged my mom to take me. She did and the rest is history. To me, music is like reading. It’s an escape. It makes me happy. I recognize how much effort goes into these two art forms and could watch the same performance a million times over. The breathing, the posture, the emotions – it’s not just about showing up and looking nice. It is so hard and so beautiful. In terms of favourites, it would have to be Il Trovatore and Les Mis.

On your social media, you mention being a gamer. What was the game that first turned you into an enthusiast? Why?

The BioShock series, hands down. For me to enjoy it, a game must have a solid story. Without that, it's just mindless button-mashing. When the narrative hooks you, when the lore sucks you in, and the characters feel real? It's like diving into a book you can play through.

You repost a lot of art on twitter! What are some of your favourite pieces? Is there any sex worker-made art that has had an effect on you?

I’m not too savvy when it comes to visual arts – I’m more of a literature buff, actually. But I have a thing for pieces that really stir up emotions, you know, those ones that give you a bit of a jolt. I believe it is called shock art, or transgressive art. I enjoy it, but I do have to take it in small doses since I’m naturally sensitive. Still, stumbling upon something that really makes me stop and widen my eyes, something that evokes a sense of disquiet? That’s a feeling I absolutely love.

How do you deal with burnout? How do you recharge or take a break?

When it comes to recharging, I’m definitely an introvert. I thrive on alone time – it’s essential for me to reset and refuel. Whether it’s diving into my favourite video games, writing, gardening with my grandmother, reading a book, or taking my best-worst-dog on a long walk, I find peace in these quiet moments. Silence, to me, is as vital as air. 

The dorkiest thing about me is: I know way too many random history facts, and specifically about beans, of all things.

My next trip out of town will be to: Somewhere in the country. It’s about time for me to get back on a horse, quite literally. I love riding.

In the future, I plan to: Finish writing a fantasy novel.

My greatest turn-on is: A soothing baritone

A historical figure I find inspiring is: Veronica Franco

My social handles are: @Kira_Nielsen_ (Twitter/X)

Want to meet Montreal Escort Kira Nielson in person?

Head over to her profile! 👇👇👇