Who were you a fan of growing up?

Growing up, I was a big fan of different kinds of music. I was remember being obsessed with The Spice Girls, Bee Gee’s, Michael Jackson, So Solid crew, Ms Dynamite and Jennifer Lopez.

What was your top tune growing up?

My top tune growing up was Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees. Saturday Night Fever was the first musical I went to in the west end in 1998 and it changed my life. I knew from then I wanted to perform. I learned the entire song and choreography and would do the dance absolutely everywhere.

What was your favourite look?

My favourite look now is the same as my favourite look growing up. I’m inspired by how my mum dressed me in boyish fits but with girly touches like an oversized sports tee, platform trainers and a ribbon tied around a pony tail

What was your best gig?

My best gig was working for Channel 4 random acts: Apple Z. I was the only performer for the entire video and it was my first time acting and dancing together. It was an opportunity to see what I could do with no one else to bounce off. I was pushed outside of my comfort zone and it made me realise what I’m capable of and the kind of work I want to pursue.

What was your worst gig?

My worst gig was for a well-known cosmetics brand. I was cast as a dance extra and paid well but I had to wait around for two days on set until I was used along with other extras. You didn’t see me and many other dancers in the final cut and it made me realise that I never want to be used in that way even if its paid. It was my worst but it taught me a great lesson in how important it is to be where I am valued and to seek work that allows me the chance to express myself fully.

What was your first showcase or performance?

My first performance as a solo dancer was in a dance battle at Trocadero underground in 2010. Before that I had performed in shows throughout school and college.

What is a memorable trip away?

A memorable trip away was in 2013 when I visited Stockholm, Sweden for a dance competition called STREET STAR. This trip changed me in many ways as it was the first time I was exposed to dancers from all over the world and I met so many amazing performers from different dance styles. It had the best after parties, and I made some great friends that got me into all the best clubs and showed me around the city.

Describe your teenage years?

My teenage years were a little crazy. I ran away from home at 15 and moved all over London with my boyfriend at the time. I was disowned by my very strict Turkish mum which ended up becoming my chance for freedom to find myself and do what I wanted. It was a really difficult time and I had to grow up fast so in a lot of ways I feel like I got to experience the ‘fun teenage years’ later on than most girls I knew.

Where was your favourite hang out spot?

Ever since I can remember, my favourite hangout spot has always been Camden Town. Camden helped me find my identity and creativity. You can dress as bold as you like there and no one will stare negatively. Every time I would feel down, it would always be the place that makes me feel better. Its changing a lot now unfortunately but I still feel comforted when I go there now.

Describe your teenage bedroom

My bedroom during my early teenage years had all my furniture placed around the edge of the room so that I could have space in the middle to dance after school. My carpet was worn out from dancing on it so much. I had a HiFi with loads of cd’s and cassette tapes that I would record music onto from pirate radio stations like Xtreme FM. The inside of all my cupboards and draws had writing and name tags from all my mates that would come over. It’s also where I would hang all my posters, and paintings. My mum didn’t like anything that looked messy so I could only do that stuff where I could hide it.

What were your creative inspirations then?

My creative inspirations then were music videos and fashion magazines. I was always very visual and would watch music video channels for hours. I was inspired by the different fashion, music, choreography, storylines and now I can see those inspirations showing through my current work.

What or who inspired you to be an artist?

I don’t think I can say one thing or one person inspired me. Everything that has happened in my life has directed me to that path. I chose to step into being an artist whilst learning that nothing else could fulfil me.

How are you staying creative during lock down?

During lockdown, I have continued to stay creative by allowing myself the freedom to be guided towards whatever enters my mind. Each day is different even in a time where the world seems to have stood still. I follow my own flow and keep creative with training dance, nunchaku and Kung Fu whip chain. I’ve also been painting, playing computer games and customising clothes.