All clothes provided by Jovana Louis
Yellow Shoes and Gold Shoes Camilla Gabrielle
Purple Shoes and Black Shoes Ricgano
Talent: Paige Audrey-Marie Hurd @thugginn
Creative Director: Mike Ruiz @mikeruizone
Editor-in-Chief: Dimitri Vorontsov @dimitrivorontsov
Editor-at-Large: Elen Liu
Photographer: Dametreus Ward @meech213
Fashion Stylist: Melvin Sanders @MelvinStyles
Styling Assistant: Nina Giyea @NinaGiyea
Hair: Pavy Olivarez @pavyartist
Makeup: R Pro Makeup Artist @RProMakeupArtist
Location: Los Angeles, California
All clothes provided by Jovana Louis
Yellow Shoes and Gold Shoes Camilla Gabrielle
Purple Shoes and Black Shoes Ricgano
How did you get into acting?
So I got into acting through my mom. I was modeling in Dallas (where I am from) and started acting classes at a young age, and then my mom thought this was something we should do professionally so that’s what we did. We started out in New York and then moved to California where my career in TV and film began.
What was it like growing up as a child actress?
It’s not easy at all, there were some fun aspects, but there were a lot of hard moments where I feel like I missed out on childhood. This industry forces you to grow up super-fast; nonetheless, I’m grateful for all my blessings and roles I was able to play in at a young age.
Tell us about playing Lauren Baldwin in Power Book II, how did you prepare for this role?
I honestly was so excited when my audition came in. It was a quick turnaround for me so I didn’t have much time to prepare. Playing Lauren has been amazing though – I love how smart she is & I have definitely learned a lot playing her.
Anything you can share about season 3?
Season 3 is just an incredible season, I feel like it’s our best season yet. So many twists and turns and, of course, unexpected surprises.
You have gotten great roles, Everybody Hates Chris, Hawaii Five-O, and now Power Book II: Ghost, what drives you?
For me, I have so many goals so I’m grateful for the roles I have had because they are stepping stones to where I want to get to and for the bigger picture.
You are a mental health advocate? Can you tell us more about it.
I’m just very big on being a voice for those who struggle. Because I’ve been there, it’s something that still is very much real for me today and I know there are times I feel like I’m the only one or that my feelings aren’t valid, so I just want people to know that’s not the case and find ways to be supportive or at least inspiring and relatable.
DMX is your godfather, how did you get to know him?
My very first film was called Cradle 2 The Grave where I played his daughter and from there we just created a bond and it was as if we’ve been family our entire lives. That is a relationship that I’m grateful for.
And, DMX gave you a pitbull and her name is “Vanessa”. Tell us about Vanessa.
Vanessa was the best dog you could ever ask for. She was truly more than our family could ask for in a family pet.
Tell us about the work you do with special needs kids?
I’m just very passionate about the special needs community, and it really makes me happy to be able to help and/or support any cause I can be part of. I work a lot with Best Buddies and I really enjoy the events and activities they throw for everyone to feel included and get out and be social. We have done friendly competitions, I have done prom nights with the Tim Tebow Foundation, etc. My youngest brother has Down Syndrome and he is a huge inspiration as to why I do what I do.
What performance have you enjoyed the most?
This is always a hard question. I’ve enjoyed a lot of my roles, but I would have to say between Cradle 2 The Grave and Beauty Shop. Those were super fun as a kid and really awesome sets to be on.
What’s next for you?
More acting, eventually produce and direct, and 100% doing bigger and more things in the special needs community.
Are there any dream roles you would like to play?
I have a few dream roles – I would love roles that are heavier in drama and roles that really challenge me.
What are some of your hobbies?
I’m a homebody for the most part, but I have my moments of wanting to get out. I’m in a phase of really loving chill things like going out to dinner, going to the movies, bowling, sports events and being at lounges. I’m super chill.