words. Odyssia Houstis
photography. Amber Gray
fashion. Santa Bevacqua
issue 7. on the edge
Your own journey from Geneva, Switzerland, to the United States is a fascinating part of your story. How do you feel about Switzerland today?
Switzerland is incredibly special to me. It’s where my journey began, and the memories of growing up there still warm my heart. The beauty of Switzerland and its rich culture continue to inspire me. Plus, it’s the birthplace of the UN—and me!
Your career is a testament to pushing boundaries across acting, singing, now writing, and beyond, showcasing an extraordinary range of talents. From where do you draw the energy that fuels this relentless drive?
My energy springs from a deep love for creativity and a relentless pursuit of self-expression. I’m constantly inspired by life’s diverse experiences and the chance to connect with people through various art forms. Pushing boundaries and challenging myself creatively? It’s invigorating!
Congratulations on the release of your new book. This project seems to encapsulate your journey through the arts while standing ‘On the Edge’ of personal and creative evolution. What inspired this venture?
This book sprang from my desire to share the lessons I’ve learned along my journey. It’s about embracing the unknown, taking risks, and evolving creatively. I wanted to create a collection of insights and tools that have been crucial to my growth, and a journal format felt like the perfect way to connect intimately with my readers.
Writing a book is a deeply personal and often challenging journey. Could you describe your creative process and how you navigated the challenges you faced while bringing this book to life?
Writing was a deeply personal journey for me. I delved into pivotal moments in my life and how they’ve shaped me. Being authentic and vulnerable was key, sharing the highs and lows. Choosing which moments to share was a thoughtful process, aiming to offer genuine insight and inspiration.
In your book “Seasons of You,” you metaphorically discuss life’s cyclical nature. At this moment, which ‘season’ do you find yourself in?
Do you continue to apply these tools and insights you write about in your own life? Right now, I’m embracing a season of introspection and growth. The tools and insights I’ve shared in “Seasons of You” are ones I continue to apply in my life. Making time for personal growth is essential, and it often intertwines with my creative work, serving as a wellspring of inspiration.
The past year has been a whirlwind of emotions for you, with the profound loss of your mother and the joy of getting married. How have these significant life events influenced your perspective on work, life, and love?
The past year has been a rollercoaster of emotions. The loss of my mother reshaped my perspective on life and love profoundly. Yet, amidst the pain, finding love and getting married has been a beacon of joy and hope. These experiences emphasize the importance of cherishing every moment and embracing the love and support that surrounds me.
Serving as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR, you’ve had the opportunity to shine a light on crucial issues. Can you share a defining moment or experience in this role that has profoundly impacted you or shaped your perspective on humanitarian work?
Being a Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR has allowed me to witness the resilience and strength of refugees firsthand. One defining moment was meeting a young girl who, despite the hardships she faced, held onto her dreams. It reinforced the importance of using my platform to advocate for those who need a voice, and it continues to inspire my humanitarian work.
As we look towards the horizon of 2024, are there new projects or frontiers you’re eager to explore, both professionally and creatively?
Looking ahead to 2024, I’m thrilled about new projects that allow me to further explore storytelling across various mediums. I’m eager to continue pushing boundaries, whether it’s through acting, music, or exploring new creative frontiers. Professionally and creatively, I’m always seeking opportunities to grow and evolve. I stay curious!
words. Odyssia Houstis
photography. Amber Gray
director of photography. Julian Bernstein
fashion. Santa Versace Bevacqua
talent. Kat Graham
talent agent. Alessio Filippelli
art direction. Odie Senesh
hair. Pavy Olivarez @Rouge Artists
make up. Roshar
nails. Naoko Saita
set designer. Stefania Lucchesi @Saint Luke Artists
make up assistant. Robert Chrisman
producer. David Thibodeau
ai retouch. Laura Knoops
production company. Brilliant Creative Agency
location. Terraform Studio, Los Angeles
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