This is the first time you’ve visited Australia. How have you liked it so far?
I LOVE Australia! I never understood the true beauty of Australia before I came here.
What are you getting up to while you’re here?
For the first time in my life, I went surfing at ‘The Farm’ where they shot Rip Tide. Rip Tide is a Steve Jaggi production, just like Back of the Net! I loved surfing so much that I went a second time. I also went to the Symbio Wildlife Park and got up close and personal with some beautiful kangaroos and koalas.
You’ve stepped into the lead role for the movie Back of the Net. What can we expect?
Back of the Net starts off with Cory Bailey who is a very intelligent and determined young woman who LOVES science. She doesn’t really put herself out there and never seems to fit in with her peers. She thinks by going to a science program she will find her “people” and get to enjoy what she loves at the same time. Soon she finds herself not at the science program but at a soccer camp! She doesn’t want to be at this new and intimidating place but with the kind and welcoming hearts of her new roommates, Janessa, Charlotte, and Adelle she soon realises that friendship and teamwork are better than going at it alone. This story of self-discovery, love, and friendship is something that everyone will be able to enjoy.
There’s often a misconception that soccer or science are just for boys. Is this movie about embracing girl power?
This movie definitely shows that girls can do anything! We have such a diverse cast and no matter their differences they can come together and do anything they set their minds to!
You’ve been coined 'the next Zendaya', who also got her start on the Disney Channel. How does that feel?
Being considered “The next Zendaya” is such an honor because I look up to her so much. Even though I am very honored, I am determined to make my own path and strive to be the best version of myself.
And you were lucky enough to meet her! Tell us about that.
I got to meet the cast of the Disney Channel show K.C. Undercover which Zendaya starred in. I was fangirling the whole time I was meeting her and afterwards I felt like I was going to faint because I was so star struck! It was definitely one of the best days of my life.
You really are a triple threat – singing, acting, and dancing! Do you ever get any downtime?
I don’t get a lot of downtime but when I do, I love to spend as much time with my family as possible. Whether that means just chilling out on the coach or doing a fun activity, I love it!
You’ve performed with Justin Bieber before. What was that like?
Performing with Justin Bieber was one of the highlights of my life. It was such a great opportunity to do what I love in front of thousands of people. And, of course meeting Justin was the cherry on top!
How do you deal with the pressures of being in the spotlight at such a young age?
I just have to remind myself of what I’m trying to accomplish, which is making everyone feel accepted and special. I’m not trying to please everybody and be what society wants me to be. When you stop worrying about what others may think of you, all of that pressure fades away.
Who are your ultimate role models?
My parents and my sister. They are the most loving and generous people I know. I couldn’t imagine my life without them because they are my life.
What’s your approach to social media now you have such a platform?
My approach to social media is not much different then what I try to put out in my everyday life. I want to spread kindness and show everyone that they can do anything. If we just treat people the way we want to be treated then life would be so much easier. Love yourself and that light will attract the people that are destined to shine with you.