Hey Izzie!! So excited to be chatting with you!! You are definitely a triple threat, you model, dance, and act. What inspired you to pursue all these amazing things?
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to be featured! I absolutely love Teen Music Insider!
Yes, I have a lot of passion for all 3 of these areas. I began modeling dance at the very early age of 3, based on my mom’s desire to see her little girl in tutus and on photos. Lol. However, as I grew, my individual love for these activities evolved as I developed increased interest and skill.
I began competing, in dance, at the age of 5 which is the age when I began runway events, too. At around the same time, while attending a fine arts camp, I was cast as the Lead of “Max” in the play, “Where the Wild Things Are”, which sparked my curiosity in acting. Shortly, thereafter, I was scouted and signed by an agent in LA. I began acting as a hobby but it quickly turned into a great love and has remained, to this day.”
What’s your favorite dance style?
“I have a strong background in ballet, ballroom and lyrical. I began hip hop when I was 6 and it has grown to be my favorite, over the years.”
Do you look up to anyone in the dance world?
“Yes. I absolutely love the talent of Derek Hough as well as rising star and friend, JT Church.”
What actor/actress are you influenced by?
“I am always in admiration of so many talented actors/actresses. Our screens are full of role models, within the industry. Cameron Boyce has really been an influence in my career, not only for his amazing talent but for the way in which he carried himself and just radiated kindness. Although he was sadly taken much too soon, his work continues on as a true inspiration for me as well as many others.”
What’s been your favorite role to play?
“This is a tough question as I have so many roles and characters that I have loved playing. I am equally interested in both drama and comedy. Although early on, my most cherished role is that which included both acting and dance as a lead in a story surrounding the long term impact of bullying. I was severely bullied when I was young and nearly lost my life by being choked, at the age of 5. It was a very traumatic experience for me and I am an anti-bullying advocate to this day. I use my platform to support many events and charities surrounding this issue.
Despite my age, the cast of that project was incredibly supportive and I am friends with many, to this day. It was also based upon a true story of a Male dancer who suffered the effects of long-term bullying, into adulthood. This amazing person with the biggest heart was the main actor/dancer with whom I worked. This project occurred shortly after my own horrible experience with bullying and was really therapeutic.”
You are also the founder of LAKidsbunch. Can you tell us about this program and why you started it?
“Yes. I absolutely ADORE the LaKidsBunch!! When I moved to LA, I knew very few friends and sadly noticed large negativity amongst many areas of the industry. It is very easy to fall into that and I wanted to build a group of kind and supportive friends to just “be kids” and “enjoy life”, during production down times. The group began with around 20 kids/parents and has since grown to over 100 industry kids, who are all AMAZING. The group participates in so many fun events as well as charity work. We never talk about what we are working on, industry wise. It doesn’t matter. We are friends!!”
Are there any fun projects in the works you can tell us about?
“I actually have a very fun project that has been in the works, for over a year, and is nearing a launch. I am absolutely over the moon about it but , unfortunately not yet able to share. Hopefully, soon!”
What are your friends and parents’ thoughts on your career in dancing and acting?
“My parents are extremely supportive of my career and encourage me to explore all of my interests. They have always stressed that this life is mine and should I ever choose another direction, that is okay. I like this as I never feel the pressure to “be a star”. I do what I do because of ME!
It is hard for friends, outside of the industry, to relate to my homeschooling or missing events, due to the schedule I keep. My industry friends include those, within the LAkidsBunch, who are ALWAYS there for me and understand the ups and downs of this amazing but crazy world.”
Overall, how has this whole acting and dancing career experience been for you?
“I always say that if it were to all end, tomorrow, I would not have regrets. The skills of confidence, focus, determination, leadership, the ability to get back up again and again after rejection, the way to humbly celebrate success…..I will carry these with me, no matter where my future may lead.”
Do you have any advice for anyone trying to make it as a dancer or actor?
“Be ready to work and pursue it ONLY for yourself and a deep passion that you truly have, inside”.
Do you have any other talents other than dancing and acting?
“I have practiced taekwondo, since the age of 4 and I absolutely love to draw. I have a huge interest in animation and have participated in many advanced art programs. I am almost always sketching on a portfolio or creating on my tablet during free time. I have also developed a fascination in stage makeup and costuming. This is another big hobby of mine. I am also a HUGE gamer!”
What 5 words would you use to describe yourself?
“Kind, Loyal, Joyful, Energetic, Determined”
Do you have any last things you want to tell your fans?
“Always be yourself and surround yourself by those who make you smile. Most importantly, wake up every morning, look in the mirror and tell yourself “I’m awesome”!.
Thank you so much for all of your support!”
