KidFash Magazine Determination Issue

Brianni Walker

By: Lydia Canbakal

Photography

Cover

Model: Brianni Walker (@ms.brianniwalker)

Photographer: Lydia Canbakal (@lydiacanbakal)

Dress: Brooklynn & Blake (@brooklynnandblake)

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Back Cover

Models: Darya (@sweetdarya_ml) Yaretzi (@itsme_yaretzi)

Photographer: Valluv Creations (@valluvcreations)

Dresses: Elena Collection (@elenacollections)

Location: San Diego, CA

Table of Contents Picture

Model: Kanon (@kirie_0111)

Photographer: (@yukisato1graphics)

Designer: moalKUMI (@moabycheerfulmama.ikumi)

Location: Japan

Editor: Damon Ross DDS

Contributing

Editor’s Letter

Everyone wants to be successful in life. But, not everyone wants to put in the work that it takes to be successful. As soon as a hurdle comes, people give up. Those who don’t give up, will dig deep within and find the DETERMINATION it takes to keep pushing through. In the modeling industry, you will get a lot of NO’s and things won’t catapult as fast as you would like, but you have to stay DETERMINED. This is why I wanted to come out with an issue that shows models having DETERMINATION.

When I first started KidFash, we had a Fashion Show in Los Angeles, CA. We had all of these kid celebrities, but there was one girl who really stood out. Her name was Brianni Walker. No one really knew her. She was not invited to the show to be a host, but hosting is what she wanted to do. She came in with her camera crew and her own mic and that’s what she did. Brianni interviewed everyone she could and after the show sent me the video. It was AMAZING, I knew from that day, her DETERMINATION would make her great. This is why she is this issue’s Cover Model.

In our 32nd Issue you will see "What Fashion Means to Me” by Nika and read about Ava’s experience with bullying. You will also learn how God has given Ar’miah a vision without sight and read how Shelia’s determination allows her to have life after drowning. Oh and we can’t forget our Top 10 Determination pics, the BEST of the GOLD’S, pictures from NYFW (House of Barretti), and our GOLD Photographer Spotlight with Cindy Hains. We also have a great finish to the magazine with Nicola Crisa as she tells How To Become An Actress

Thank you for taking the time to read our magazine! If you would like to be published in our magazine, either send us a message on Instagram and/or Facebook. You can also reach us via our website at www.kidfashmagazine.com. For special events and opportunities, continue to follow us on Instagram @kidfashmagazine. Hope you enjoy the magazine, and I look forward to meeting you at one of our events in the near future!! Be Blessed!

MEANS TO WHAT FASHION ME?

Fashion is my everything at 15. I’m Nika Nikolaienko, a model who adores fashion. It’s not just clothes; it’s my key to self-discovery and confidence. I love dressing beautifully and working with fashion brands. Being a model in a fashion world, like a princess in the world of a queen. It’s where I find myself and express my unique personality, both on the runway and in front of the camera.

Model: Nika (@nikanikolaienko)

Photographer: Carlo Ferrara (@retratarte.mx)

AVA BREEZE

The Rising Star w h a Melodic Soul

By Michelle Elizabeth

Photographer: Nathan Blaney (@blaneyphoto)

Bullying is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals, leaving lasting emotional scars. In a recent interview, rising star Ava Breeze courageously opened up about her personal experiences with bullying and how she has managed to overcome adversity. At just 17 years old, Ava Breeze is already making waves in the entertainment industry. Born and raised in New Jersey, this talented singer/songwriter has captivated audiences with her beautiful voice and heartfelt lyrics.

From a young age, Ava's interest in the performing arts was ignited by watching Barney on tv. She expressed her desire to be on the screen to her mother, who recognized her talent and passion for acting. Upon seeing an episode of Victorious, Ava wanted to go to a performing arts school. However, it was a fortuitous turn of events during a photoshoot for Home Run Bandages that introduced Ava to the world of modeling. With her natural beauty and charm, she quickly made a name for herself in the industry. As Ava grew older, her passion shifted from modeling to singing. For Ava, music is a form of magic, allowing her to transform her thoughts and feelings into tangible melodies.She draws inspiration from life itself, turning personal experiences, both joyful and painful, into heartfelt songs. She hopes that her music will resonate with listeners, offering solace, joy, and a shared experience. Ava's music is raw, vulnerable, and deeply personal, making it relatable to audiences of all ages.

Overcoming the challenges of life requires resilience and hope, and Ava has embraced both. In moments of darkness, she clings to that glimmer of light, finding solace in her family and her music. Ava has faced her own battles with anxiety and depression, but she has learned the importance of maintaining her mental well-being and cherishing the things that truly matter in life. Her handicapped sister has been a constant source of inspiration, reminding her to use her voice for good and make a positive impact on the world. Rejection and setbacks are inevitable in any career, and Ava has faced her fair share.

Bullying is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals, leaving lasting emotional scars.

Ava's resilience and determination allowed her to rise above the negativity.

From an early age, Ava was subjected to various forms of bullying. In elementary and middle school, she faced exclusion, hurtful rumors, and physical intimidation. One particularly distressing incident occurred during her fourth-grade year when a classmate spread a false rumor that Ava had something inappropriate on her desk. This led to her being ostracized by her peers, with no one wanting to associate with her. Ava spent the entire year feeling isolated and questioning what she had done wrong. Another painful experience Ava endured was bullying by an authority figure. As a varsity cheerleader in high school, she faced relentless bullying from her cheer coach, who acted more like a mean girl than a supportive mentor. Despite bringing the issue to theattention of school administrators, Ava felt unheard and unsupported. The bullying took a toll on her mental health, ultimately leading her to step away from the competition team. Fortunately, the

truth eventually came to light, and the coach and staff involved faced consequences for their actions. Throughout her school career, Ava encountered bullying on a daily basis, whether during recess, in the classroom, or even on social media. The bullying affected her deeply, causing feelings of loneliness and self-doubt. She often came home in tears, wondering what she had done to deserve such treatment. Ava's resilience and determination allowed her to rise above the negativity. Her parents played a crucial role in helping her navigate the difficult terrain of bullying. She confided in them, and they took immediate action, advocating for her and addressing the issue with the school and the parents of those involved. Their unwavering support and intervention sent a powerful message that bullying was not acceptable.

Despite the pain she endured, Ava's experiences with bullying have shaped her into a compassionate and empathetic individual. She has witnessed other children being bullied and has always taken a stand against it. Whether it's offering a seat at her table or being a shoulder to lean on, Ava refuses to be a bystander. She believes in the power of kindness and inclusivity, understanding the importance of making others feel seen and valued. Ava recognizes the need for proactive measures to prevent bullying. She believes that it starts with parents being positive role models for their children. By teaching children empathy, respect, and kindness, parents can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment. Ava also emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the impact of bullying and providing resources and support for both victims and perpetrators.

To those who are currently experiencing bullying, Ava offers words of encouragement and advice. She encourages them to seek out activities outside of school where they can connect with like-minded individuals. By expanding their social circles and realizing that their world extends beyond the confines of bullying, they can find solace and strength. Ava reminds them that there are countless people waiting to meet them and form meaningful connections. For those who engage in bullying, Ava urges them to recognize the humanity in others. She shares that many bullies may be acting out due to their own personal struggles, and channeling their anger into positive outlets can lead to personal growth and transformation. Ending bullying requires raising awareness about its effects and educating both children and parents on the importance of empathy and compassion.

Ava Breeze is a rising star with a melodic soul, and her journey is only just beginning. Throughout her journey, modeling, acting, and singing served as a source of inspiration and strength for Ava. These pursuits allowed her to connect with supportive friends who understood her experiences and shared her passion. Recognizing that her life extended beyond the boundaries of her school environment helped Ava maintain a positive outlook and fueled her determination to overcome the challenges she faced. Ava Breeze's story serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite enduring bullying, she has emerged stronger and more determined than ever. Through her own experiences, Ava has become an advocate for kindness, inclusivity, and the power of self-belief. As she continues her journey as a rising star, she hopes to inspire others to rise above adversity and embrace their true potential.

Ava Breeze is a rising star with a melodic soul, and her journey is only just beginning.

Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Others: The Journey of

By Michelle Elizabeth

Ar'miah Gilchrist is a remarkable young individual who graces us with her presence.

n a world where setbacks and challenges often test our resilience, there are individuals who rise above their circumstances and become a beacon of hope. Ar'miah Gilchrist, a blind motivational speaker, is one such individual. In this article, we delve into Ar'miah's life and explore how she uses her personal experiences and faith to inspire others.

Ar'miah Gilchrist is a remarkable young individual who graces us with her presence. Despite her visual impairment, Ar'miah's spirit shines bright, illuminating the lives of those around her. She is currently in the sixth grade, demonstrating that age is no barrier to making a significant impact on others. In school, English holds a special place in Ar'miah's heart, as it allows her to express herself through words. On the other hand, math does not capture her interest as much. However, Ar'miah's determination to excel in all areas of life remains unwavering.

This magnificent motivational speaker was born with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia, a condition that rendered her blind. Rather than allowing this setback to define her, Ar'miah chooses to rely on her unyielding faith in God's healing power. She knows that she is fearfully and wonderfully made.She doesn’t let her disability hold her back. On her Instagram page, she boldly reads her braille Bible to declare God’s word. There’s even a video of her riding a bicycle! That’s right folks, a blind girl riding a bike with no fear! Her amazing mom cheers her on in the background, showing how important it is to have a supportive family spurring you on.

In the absence of sight, Ar'miah's other senses have flourished. Her ability to navigate the world using touch, sound, and intuition serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Ar'miah's passion for motivational speaking stems from her unwavering faith in God. She considers her gift of speaking as a blessing and an opportunity to inspire others.

Ar'miah emphasizes that she is not just a blind motivational speaker; she is a child of God who refuses to be labeled by others. Through sharing her personal experiences and challenges, Ar'miah empowers others to overcome their own obstacles. Ar'miah recounts numerous instances when her faith in God helped her overcome daunting obstacles. Her unwavering trust in God's plan allows her to face each day with resilience and an eagerness to learn and grow.

Ar'miah's advice to other children facing challenges is simple yet profound: Keep your faith in God, for everything will be alright. With God by their side, they can conquer any setback.

Ar'miah's love for fashion is seamlessly woven into her motivational speeches. By expressing herself through her unique style, she encourages others to embrace their individuality and find confidence in their own skin. In her videos, she’s always wearing cute fashionable clothes, despite not knowing what it looks like. You can tell that the clothes she wears make her feel comfortable yet confident. ,

Before delivering a motivational speech, Ar'miah prepares herself mentally and emotionally. Through prayer, meditation, and trust in God, she finds the strength to connect with her audience on a deeper level.

She considers her gift of speaking as a blessing and an opportunity to inspire others.

“We walk by faith and not by sight.”

Ar'miah recalls a memorable moment when she witnessed the profound impact of her speeches on other children. Through her words, she instilled a sense of hope and determination in their hearts, empowering them to pursue their dreams. Ar'miah addresses common misconceptions about blind individuals and challenges them through her speeches. She seeks to break down barriers and inspire others to see beyond physical limitations.

Ar'miah's unwavering trust in God and daily practices, such as prayer and meditation, help her stay motivated and inspired, even in the face of adversity. She aspires to continue inspiring others through her work as a motivational speaker. Her goal is to reach a wider audience and touch even more lives with her words of encouragement and faith.

One of Ar'miah's favorite Bible verses is 2 Corinthians 5:7, which reminds her that “We walk by faith and not by sight.” This verse encapsulates her unwavering belief in God's plan for her life. It’s just so fitting. A great reminder for everyone, whether or not you have the ability to see. When it comes to faith, it’s about trusting what you can’t see. In one of her videos she says, “Don’t let your faith collect dust.” I absolutely love her bold confident and inspirational videos and I’m sure you will too. You can follow her on IG @armiahuniqueworld.

Ar'miah Gilchrist's journey as a blind motivational speaker is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and determination. Through her personal experiences, she empowers others to face their own challenges head-on. Ar'miah's unwavering trust in God's plan and her ability to inspire others with her words make her a true role model and an inspiration to us all.

AMELIA

(@amelia_jakovich)

Age: 15 Location: LA County Photographer: Dave Feilings (@dafeiling)

A dream doesn’t become reality through magic. It takes sweat, determination, and hard work. Success means having the courage, the determination, and the will to become the person you believe you were meant to be.

SHIYUE

Age: 9 Location: California Photographer: Elsie Rose Photography (@elsierosephotography)

Determination to me is to muster the courage to constantly break through myself and strive to become the best.

Age: 12 Location: San Clemente, CA Photographer: Ava Cantrell Photography (@avacantrellphotography)

DETERMINATION to me is knowing what I need to do to reach my goals and doing the work. It's following my dreams, rain or shine!

Age: 8 Location: Brooklyn, NY Photographer: Ivona Kaplan (@ivonakaplan)

Determination is reaching for your goals with all the effort against the odds. Challenges might come but determination will help to overcome them.

(@meshortynyc)

Life After DROWNING

By Michelle Elizabeth

Pool Photography: Ava Cantrell Photography (@avacantrellphotography)

Other Photography: Marie Lafranque (@marielafranquephotography)

With a diverse skill set that includes music production, songwriting, DJing, and acting, Shelia is a true multi-talented artist.

Shelia Celine (@sheliaceline), a talented 12-year-old artist, is making waves in the entertainment industry as a recording artist, actress, and model. Born and raised in the Bay Area, Shelia's journey in show business began at a young age and was fueled by her passion for music and performance. In this exclusive interview, Shelia shared her experiences, aspirations, and the challenges she overcame to pursue her dreams.

With a diverse skill set that includes music production, songwriting, DJing, and acting, Shelia is a true multi-talented artist. Her love for the arts was nurtured by her family, particularly her parents, who were involved in music, modeling, and acting. Encouraged by her mother, Shelia enrolled in performing arts school at the age of 5, setting her on

a path towards a career in entertainment. This kind of formal training has played a crucial role in Shelia's development as an artist. She has received acting lessons, modeling training, vocal coaching, and many many dance rehearsals. Additionally, Shelia hosts dance auditions, where she shares her choreography with other talented kids, both honing her skills while at the same time inspiring others.

When asked about her life goals and dreams, Shelia expressed a desire for success and the opportunity to travel the world while performing. She is fully committed to making a living doing what she loves. She also strives to keep her supporters happy and inspired through her music. For Shelia, being on stage and connecting with her audience through her performances is a transcendent experience. It serves

She also strives to keep her supporters happy and inspired through her music.

as a form of therapy, allowing her to express herself and forge a deep connection with her supporters.

However, balancing her creative pursuits with school can be challenging for Shelia. To overcome this, she has learned the importance of effective time management and adheres to a daily schedule, ensuring that she dedicates time to both her education and her passion for creating music.

Inspiration for Shelia comes from various sources. She finds it within herself, as well as in the works of other artists, her friends, and life experiences. Her recently released song, "I Just Wanna Be Like Me," is a testament to embracing individuality and being proud of who you are. Reflecting on her career, Shelia shared a memorable experience of appearing on the Jennifer Hudson show. Introduced to the show by her grandmother, surprising her with the episode airing was a cherished moment that Shelia will always hold dear.

A near-death experience at the age of 10 profoundly impacted Shelia's perspective on life and the pursuit of her dreams. Found unconscious under 8 feet of water, she was hospitalized and made a miraculous recovery and was discharged the next day and went on to perform. Like the old saying goes, “The show must go on!” This incident served as a stark reminder to Shelia of the importance of cherishing every single one of life's opportunities.

According to statistics, drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury-related deaths among children worldwide. In fact, it is estimated that every day, around 10 people die from unintentional drowning, with children being particularly vulnerable. The incident that Shelia experienced highlights the need for safety precautions when it comes to children and drowning. It is essential for parents and caregivers to be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of children around water. This includes constant supervision, securing pool areas with barriers, and teaching children about water safety rules. In situations where a drowning incident occurs, knowing life-saving techniques such as CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) can make a significant difference. CPR is a critical emergency procedure that can help maintain blood flowand oxygenation to ntil further medical assistance arrives. Learning basic life-saving skills, including CPR, is not only valuable for individuals like Shelia who may find themselves in a life-threatening situation, but also for anyone who may encounter such emergencies.

Shelia's second chance at life drives home the importance of being prepared and equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond effectively in emergency situations. By raising awareness about the importance of water safety and encouraging individuals to learn basic life-saving techniques, we can reduce the number of drowning incidents and save lives. Grateful for her second chance, Shelia remains determined to make the most of her talents and continue pursuing her dreams. Her experience serves as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment and to never take life for granted. Through her resilience and determination, Shelia inspires others to embrace their own opportunities and to strive for greatness, all while emphasizing the importance of safety and being prepared for unexpected situations.

For other kids aspiring to enter show business, Shelia's advice is simple yet powerful: follow your dreams and never give up. She encourages young individuals to reach for the stars, believe in themselves, and stay committed to their aspirations.

Shelia Celine is a rising star with a multitude of remarkable talents and a tenacious spirit. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her positive attitude and resilience, sets her apart in the entertainment industry. Shelia's story serves as an inspiration to all aspiring artists, reminding them to believe in themselves, work hard, and never lose sight of their dreams. With her undeniable talent and unwavering determination, Shelia Celine is destined for greatness.

Her experience serves as a powerful reminder to cherish every moment and to never take life for granted.

Rising Star: Overcoming Adversity with

BRIANNI WALKER

By Michelle Elizabeth

Pink Dress Photographer: Lydia Canbakal (@lydiacanbakal) Designer: Brooklynn & Blake (@brooklynnandblake)

At just 16 1/2 years old, teen actress Brianni Walker is making waves in the entertainment industry. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Brianni discovered her passion for modeling and acting at a young age. Her journey began when her grandmother noticed her love for posing for pictures at just 8 months old. Brianni's talent and potential were evident when she recited the Pledge of Allegiance at 1 ½ years old, capturing the attention of an agent who saw her on social media. Since then, Brianni has been unstoppable, using acting as therapy and a means to express herself. One of her notable roles was in the movie "Niara," where she portrayed a little girl kidnapped from Kenya by militants. Although she doesn't remember much about the film, it was well-received and won awards at various film festivals. One of Brianni's favorite parts of "Niara" was revealing her character's true identity as a girl, overcoming the challenge of pretending to be a boy to avoid danger. This role showcased her versatility and ability to tackle complex characters.

In addition to "Niara," Brianni has worked on numerous other projects, including appearances in HBO's "Insecure," "The Neighbors," and the movie "Live By Night" alongside Ben Affleck. She has also ventured into international projects, such as the Disney show "Tell Her" in Russia and the Amazon series "My Brother Wes." Brianni has even shared the screen with stars like Ariana Grande in Nickelodeon's "Sam & Cat."

Since then, Brianni has b n unstoppable, using acting as therapy and a means to expre herself.

Despite her success in acting, Brianni remains committed to her long-term goals. She still aspires to become a pediatrician or a lawyer, recognizing the importance of helping others and advocating for those who have experienced bullying. Brianni's determination to fight for change led her to create her own non-profit organization, "Brianni Walker Stop Bullying Me," and a comedy NFL Play-off series called "Whose House with Brianni Walker '' during Super Bowl weekend.

Brianni acknowledges that her job comes with its own set of challenges. Dealing with racism and emotional bullying from adults both on and off set has been difficult, but she has learned to accept that not everyone will accept her. Her inspiration comes from giving back to her community and appreciating the life she has been given. Brianni aims to support individuals struggling with bullying in various settings, including at home, in foster care, at the workplace, and in school. In facing the challenges life throws at her, Brianni finds solace in prayer and conversations with her grandmother, YaYa, who offers honest advice. She draws strength from her faith and the knowledge that Jesus sacrificed His life for her. Brianni sees

Desp e her succe in acting, Brianni remains comm ted to her long-term goals.

In a world where bu ying remains a pervasive i ue, young actre Brianni Walker has emerged as a beacon of resilience and d ermin ion.

rejections and setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning, trusting that if something is meant for her, she will have it, and if not, something better awaits. Reflecting on her journey, Brianni has come a long way since the last time she spoke to KidFash about her experiences with bullying in 2017. While she still has her moments, she describes herself as “absolutely fine,” demonstrating her resilience and determination to overcome adversity.

In a world where bullying remains a pervasive issue, young actress Brianni Walker has emerged as a beacon of resilience and determination. Despite facing various instances of bullying throughout her life, Brianni has not only found the strength to overcome these challenges but has also transformed her experiences into a platform for change. She emphasizes the importance of dealing with each situation one day at a time, refusing to let her past hold her in bondage. Brianni's response to bullying was nothing short of remarkable, as she took it upon herself to channel her energy into creative endeavors. She wrote two songs, and even wrote, directed, and produced her first anti-bullying film. The film is called "My Heart Cries," and it’s a story about a girl who hungers for a mother-daughter bond. Some of her castmates were Sofia Chicorelli-Serna, Riki Yvette Westmoreland, Devon Weetly, and Phill "Maverick"Westbrooks (Executive Producer).

Additionally, she hosted her inaugural "Whose House with Brianni Walker '' anti-bullying NFL Super Bowl event in February 2023. Surrounding herself with a supportive village, including her best friend

Sofia Chicorelli-Serna, her mentors Leah Pump (LadyLike Foundation) and Riki Yvette Westmoreland, as well asher father figure and executive producer, Phill "Maverick" Westbrooks, Brianni exemplifies the power of resilience and determination.

When asked if she sought help from adults during her experiences with bullying, Brianni reveals the unfortunate reality that recently it was adults who emotionally bullied her. Despite this, her grandmother YaYa and her castmates attempted to support and protect her. Brianni expresses how dismissive and unsupportive adults can exacerbate the feelings of worthlessness and confusion caused by bullying. The effects of bullying can be long-lasting, and Brianni admits that it still affects her to this day. However, she remains determined not to let it consume her. Brianni acknowledges that she can get triggered or experience panic attacks and PTSD in certain situations, such as when she sees her friends with their mothers or when

she is in a crowded space. Nevertheless, she continues to face these triggers head-on, demonstrating her unwavering strength and resilience.

During the most challenging times, Brianni found solace in her faith and the sacrifices Jesus made for her. By keeping Jesus first in her life, she was able to overcome the obstacles thrown her way. Brianni's unwavering positivity and determination allowed her to stay focused on her goals and prove wrong those who tried to destroy her.

In an industry saturated with talent, Brianni stands out by creating her own opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system and not allowing others to define her. Brianni attributes her success to her faith and the guidance she receives from Jesus. When asked about tips and

and tricks for aspiring actors, Brianni humorously advises, "DON'T DO IT! LOL." However, she quickly follows up with essential advice. She emphasizes the importance of having a strong support system and not taking rejections personally. Brianni encourages aspiring actors to stay humble, continuously study their craft, and remain caring towards others.

In her final thoughts, Brianni expresses her deep appreciation for her fans and the support they provide. She encourages everyone to resist the negativity perpetuated by bullies and reminds readers that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. Brianni Walker's journey serves as a powerful reminder that resilience, determination, and faith can triumph over adversity. By transforming her experiences into opportunities for change and growth, Brianni continues to inspire others and make a lasting impact on the world. As Brianni Walker continues to pave her way in the entertainment industry, her story serves as an inspiration to young aspiring actors and advocates for change. With her talent, drive, and commitment to making a difference, there is no doubt that Brianni's future holds great success and a positive impact on the world around her.

Brianni encourages aspiring actors to stay humble, continuously study their craft, and remain caring towards others.

Model: @george.m_

Photographer: @addyg_a

Model: @amayahbmoore

Photographer: @newlifeway1994

Model: @campbelljohnsono cial

Photographer: @themissernie

Model: @kenz_kenzie

Photographer: @fulloutcreative/@koinandco

Photographer: @haileemorganartistry

Model: @tanalaanae

Model: @anastasia_patoka_smith

Photographer: @thehausofneon

Model: @arialuhv

Photographer: Brandin Photography

Model: @iamjanaemadison Photographer: @lkpstudio_atl

Model: @valexia_veronique_boulianne

Photographer: @yhanson_photography

CINDY HAINS

(@cindy_hains_photographe)

Quebec, Canada

MUA: Jacinthe Hélary

Maxyme (@nuyubystacy)

Maina-Rose (@mainarose_katy)

Charly-Ann (@charlyannbrousseau)

Hilari (@hilari.ca)

Nic a Crisa How to Become an Actress with

By:

Jennifer Pucci Star

Photography: Michele McDougall (@momentsbymichele)

"My goal is to be constantly creating art and be a full­time working actor,"

Aussie stunner, Nicola Crisa (@nicola.crisa), is a well-versed entertainer. A talented actress, dancer, model and influencer, she shines on a stage or screen. Nicola got her start as a dancer, but when Nicola’s dance school was involved in a theme park promotion, she instantly fell in love with acting. Fast forward 6 years and you can find Nicola modeling for brands such as Victoria's Secret, Nike, and Prime Drinks and working on several acting projects. With a positive outlook on the future and for creative writing, Nicola is on the fast track to success. Kidfash had a moment to chat with Nicola about her path and what it took to get to where she is today.

Find Your Why

Finding what drives you makes the path to success more pleasurable. There will be tough times and you may question if you are in the right place. For Nicola, "always coming back to why I enjoy what I do helps me. I remind myself how much I love acting.” Acting as a career is the passion that drives Nicola. "My goal is to be constantly creating art and be a full-time working actor," says Nicola.

Look for the moments that bring you joy and pull energy from those times. “I hope I will be able to make people feel different emotions, like some of my inspirations do to me when I watch their films,” says Nicola, who was inspired by leading ladies such as Jennifer Aniston, Margot Robbie and all time favorite, “Jennifer Lawrence has probably been my biggest acting inspiration. I love the variety in her work and off screen she seems so sincere and funny. I love all her films and I practically grew up on the Hunger Games movies.”

Using her audience to give back to important causes has also been important for Nicola. "I’m always so grateful to have the opportunity to be an influencer," says Nicola. "It means I can promote things I believe can be beneficial for others as well as important causes such as the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital. I have

recently become a Koala Advocate giving a voice to our precious endangered koalas."

Social Media: Public vs. Private

Having a social following has been a key to the success of so many young talented models and actresses. Fans will enjoy seeing the personal side of your life, but it is okay to keep some things for yourself. “There are many things I post about my life on social media, but I believe I do a good job at keeping a split. I have my own personal life and I don’t think everything should be shared online,” says Nicola. “However, I try to keep my followers in the loop and post about things I do daily like going for runs or going to the gym, so my feed isn’t constantly just photoshoots and acting.”

Taking advantage of multiple outlets can help you reach a larger audience, but don’t let it stress you out. Managing several accounts can be tricky, and you may find that you provide better content if you focus on just one or two. “I have always found Instagram the best platform for promoting myself,” says Nicola. “I know many others, including my friends reach a larger target audience on TikTok, but I’ve always struggled a bit on TikTok. I also have a YouTube channel.”

Self Love: Do it!

The power of positivity is real, so be your biggest fan! "Believe in yourself and be your own biggest supporter," says Nicola. "You’ll always find reasons to be negative and believe you won’t make it." Surround yourself with people who believe in you as much as you believe in yourself. Having a good support system is so important. This can be family, friends and other people in the industry. “I have an amazing acting coach, Joey Viera, who also keeps me inspired and on track. My biggest inspiration in life would be my parents. They are both intelligent, creative and kind and I aspire to be like them every day.”

Nicola has discovered a love for creative writing and takes advantage of every opportunity to be part of it. “Being on set and working with industry professionals always gets me excited,” says Nicola. “I also love creating my own things. I’m quite passionate and opinionated on many topics and I love writing material that I hope one day will turn into films and can be shared to the world. Collaboration is so important in this industry, so I love working with likeminded passionate creators.”

Look beyond your work for things that bring you peace. For Nicola, that means being with family and staying active. “When I have free time, I spend it exercising and kicking the footy in the park with my dad,” says Nicola. “I love spending time with my family and friends and I love to go to the beach. It’s good to be able to take breaks from this by doing things I love with my loved ones.”

"Believe in yourself and be your own biggest supporter,"

"Keep doing things that benefit your career."

There's No Business Like Show Business

The acting world is all around us, and no matter what city you live in you are likely to find an outlet. "I think the best advice I can give is to get into acting classes and be the hardest working person in the room," says Nicola. "Keep doing things that benefit your career. Whether that be taking an acting class or attending a film festival, stay surrounded with likeminded people and collaborate and meet with as many industry professionals as possible."

Take advantage of the slow times between jobs. “There are times when the industry goes through dry patches, and you won’t get auditions in what feels like forever,” says Nicola. However, periods like this are part of the industry and it gives you the time and opportunity to work on your own projects. Nicola takes this time to write scripts, film scenes, or make short films with friends.

It was an incredible experience and got to meet some great industry professionals while I was over there.

Nicola is currently filming two short films plus writing some of her own shorts. “At school we are currently creating our film portfolio so I have to produce and write about 5+ short films, so that will keep me busy over the next few months,” say Nicola. “At the end of last year, I travelled to Los Angeles to attend a film festival where the short film I am co-lead in, Grape, had its international premiere. It was an incredible experience and I got to meet some great industry professionals while I was over there.”

Nicola is currently in her senior year of school and looking forward to graduating at the end of the year. After graduation, she plans to study at university and continue auditioning, modeling and being a positive influence for the brands she represents. Her dream would be to one day work with Jennifer Lawrence! "I’d love to do a comedy with her. Maybe playing her younger sister…….(Netflix hope you’re reading this!)"