Gen-Z is growing up during challenging circumstances. This year the Covid pandemic has taken so much from their lives but still, they are up for the challenge and will reshape the world. Lexia Hayden —who is a stylish model, influencer, actress, and competitive tennis player— is the evidence of gen-z’s tenacity. She started her influencer career at the age of ten when she didn’t know anything about social media. Right now, she creates content on her passions for style, health, and fitness with her strong 230k Instagram followers. Aware of the issues that affect kids her age, she became a volunteer for Candlelighters New York City which has been helping kids fighting cancer and their families. We talked to Lexia Hayden about her career, style, voluntary projects. Please read our exclusive interview below to learn more about Lexia Hayden.

Where are you based?
NYC.

What drew you to modeling?
I was the Baby Gap baby for Asia so I think perhaps it chose me.

You are a model-actress influencer at the same time, which role do you get the most satisfaction from?
Getting to portray a character in front of the camera is very rewarding.

How did you get your start as an influencer and how did you decide on an industry focus?
I was on the set of a TV show filming, and all the other Mom’s told my mom that they would show her how to do it. After the initial posts, people started contacting us and it grew from there.

How has your life changed since becoming an influencer?
Well, I started at ten years old and I didn’t really know anything about social media and brands. Now I can scout a great look and I know who I want to work with. And yes, all the clothes and products are amazing. My Mom had to design a bigger closet for me!

Are there any negative parts of having many followers? Do you get any negative comments? How do you handle these?
I am so thankful to my followers because they support me and allow me to do what I love. Sure I get an occasional negative comment but I know that they don’t know the real me so I ignore it.

You are also an actress. What does acting mean to you and who is your favorite actor?
I love to be able to use my imagination for an acting role. My favorite Actress is Zendaya.

How can you prioritize your professional and personal responsibilities? For instance, is it difficult to balance your school life and career?
Sometimes it’s hard to balance it all just like every other kid. I make a schedule and that helps. Sometimes jobs land during the week and then it’s up to my Mom to decide.

You are creating content for Girls Life Mag. What do you like to write about usually?
I like to write about things that affect kids my age. Right now the pandemic is what’s shaping our days.

How would you describe your style? Do you have any favorite color or item to wear?
I would say my style is definitely trendy bohemian. I love wearing blue. My friends and I are really into comfort these days like joggers and hoodies. When I go out I love jeans and jumpsuits. I like boots or cool sneakers with everything.

JeJune loves that you are a volunteer for Candlelighters New York City which has been helping kids fighting cancer and their families. We learned that you will conduct an interview. Can you tell us about this project?
I asked the sisters a few questions. Then I took their replies, photos and facts, and created a video.

What drew you to the Giovanna and Giuliana sisters?
They are so smart and positive and of course adorable!

Why is fighting childhood cancer important to you?
These children are just like me except they need serious medical treatments. I imagine at times they are scared . I don’t want any child to feel alone.

COVID has taken over our minds as the main issue at hand, but there are still many other health issues in our world. How do we reach people to give back to non-COVID related issues at this time?
I hope that making my video will cause awareness.

Speaking of COVID, how has it impacted your life and school?
I have been in school virtually since COVID began. I used to see my friends every day, now we use our phone to text and video chat. I can’t wait to hang out in person again.

How are you staying positive during a shelter in place?
My parents and my brother have been my rock. As long as I have them I have nothing to worry about. I am a positive person by nature.

What is your motto in life?
Take advantage of today because tomorrow is not promised.

To learn more about Lexia Hayden please follow them via the following links:
https://candlelightersnyc.org/about/
Instagram: @lexiahayden

Lexia Hayden: Gen Z Brings Hope For The Future