Amelia Ayris is a 15-year-old award-winning actress, producer and writer. Born and raised in Australia, Amelia was recently granted her O1 Visa (Entertainer of Extraordinary Ability) to work in the US as an Actress. Amelia is also an accomplished vocalist, regularly performing at events as a guest singer. In addition to singing, Amelia has worked in film, TV and professional theatre.
In 2019 she started up her own film production company AHA Pictures where she writes and produces short films about issues facing teens. Amelia’s first original film, Short Sleeves, which is about self harm, went on to win awards in Australia and the US. Amelia is passionate about issues facing teens and is the only Gen Z representative invited to speak at the 2021 National Child Protection Forum in July.
Here’s 5 fast facts about Amelia!
She loves combining her artistry with good causes.
Everytime I get to perform in some way it’s pretty memorable. Some of my fondest memories are performing on Opening Night to a packed house in the professional production of the Sound of Music as a little 9yo. But most recently I have had the honour of singing at an International Women’s Day Event and a Child Protection Ball – both events raised over $150k for Domestic Violence and Child Protection Charities. Very memorable to combine performing and making a difference at the same time.
Things don’t always go smooth in her day-to-day, however.
I fall over at least once a day, so I need lots of do-overs. But one goof I can remember was when I dropped my phone and it landed in the dog’s drinking bowl. Obviously the phone didn’t work, but after it sitting in a bowl of rice for 24 hours, it worked again. So even though it ended well, I’d like a do over so I didn’t have to go through the whole ordeal.
She recognizes the good and bad of social media – and has good strategies to deal with its pressures.
I think body image is a huge issue with teens. The constant pressure to be a certain size or look a certain way or wear certain things. I think social media can amplify our feelings of inadequacy when we see our peers or models or celebrities looking so good. But I also think social media is good because it’s showing a lot of young people who may not fit the traditional view on the perfect body, but who are beautiful and confident in their own skin.
How do I avoid it? I think I embrace what I think are my imperfections. Not even supermodels are completely happy with the way they look. For me, I find the fashion that suits my shape the best. I’m a bit of a foodie, so I have learned to balance the unhealthier choices with adding in exercise. I recently joined the gym. The most important thing is to have self worth, cut yourself some slack and remember beauty comes from within.
She wasn’t always clumsy.
When I was little, I was actually a really good athlete. I was good at sprints and long jump. I made the State Titles in 8 events. The reason why people would be surprised is because I am quite clumsy and not very athletic anymore.
Pizza? She’ll say “Yes please!” [so will we! – Ed.]
I’m a real pizza girl. I love pepperoni pizzas and meat lovers pizzas. I would eat them every day if I could. I’m pretty sure I’ve never had a pizza I didn’t love.
Trying to get a selfie with my cat Nacho Cheese.
Facebook – @ameliaayrisofficial
Instagram- @ameliaayrisofficial
Website – www.ameliaayris.com
Photographer- Carrie McLeod Photography