Here's what I advise any young struggling actress today: The important thing is to develop as a woman first, and a performer second. You wouldn't prostitute yourself to get a part, not if you're in the right mind. You won't be happy, whatever you do, unless you're comfortable with your own conscience.

It’s a hard industry. As long as you love acting, do it for the acting, not for making money. Be in it because you love playing other characters, and never stop growing. Study. You are going to learn a lot from everyone. Stretch yourself. It needs to be your passion, and not for fame. I have very lucky my whole life, and I just love acting so much. Embrace it and immerse yourself in it

(What advice do you have for young artists?) DO: Without hesitation, I would say just be yourself and let your imagination, thoughts, beliefs, views, visions — or whatever inspires you — be seen. Be vulnerable, and share what is inside you. Regardless of what medium you chose to create, open up and share your gift.

I always tell my students that I’m teaching them to be more confident. That’s why you come to acting class. I say, “If you aim at a tall tree, you may hit a bush. If you aim at a bush, you’ll hit that floor.” I find that some actors just don’t try enough. They may not like it when I say that.

I learned that kids are like actors on a set: They want to know that their director gives a shit, has an actual plan and, just maybe, knows what he’s doing. In other words, they want leadership. And you can’t attempt to lead by being all things to all people or a slave to PC society

When a young woman tells me that she wants to become and actor, I say, 'No, be a writer. Or go to business school and learn how to run a studio.' The only real change will come from behind the scenes.

They (up and coming actors) should just be themselves. Believe in what they are doing and can do. One day they will get good roles and if they play them properly, they will be made.

Kids are closest to some of the most gifted actors, because they haven't gotten rid of that imaginary world yet. A lot times kids have the best insights into acting because they're still living there.

I have found the best way to give advice to your children is to find out what they want and then advise them to do it.

Being authentic is something that has always helped me. For instance, when I am interviewing or auditioning, I don’t try to act a certain way to please the other person. Of course, I have a positive energy and I’m an extrovert, which are traits that are important to succeed in my job. If I had to give one piece of advice, I would say: don’t give up. There are times that feel more difficult, but you should never throw the towel in and listen to those who say you should do something else. In my industry, it’s about timing and chance circumstances. When I’m not selected for a part, it feels like a blow on the spot, but I believe everything happens for a reason.

Being an actress was kind of like when you’re a kid, and you want to run away and join the circus, it's something you really want to do, but then you grew up and got a proper job. It was a dream, but I didn’t think it would ever be reality, and yet here I am!

I feel like you kind of have to live life to its fullest in order to be a good actor. Draw on experiences. The more experiences the better, and I really have had a lot of experiences in life, even at my young age.

Skills and talent are very important. It goes beyond having just a pretty face or nice body…you need to be really talented. Also, acting is hard work, and you must be disciplined. Above all, you need God’s grace.

Acting was something my parents knew I had a talent for, so they encouraged me throughout my schooling. When I got to the crossroads, that was my A levels year, I asked the Lord where he wanted me to be and when he gave the answer, it was entertainment.' '