At Junior Style, we have been privileged not only to meet the remarkable Haven Krys, but also to call her one of our very own ambassadors. Over the past year since our last interview, we have had the pleasure of working alongside Haven on numerous projects, both for Junior Style and across the wider fashion and entertainment industry, and watching her growth has been nothing short of inspiring.
Haven is a true role model. We have witnessed firsthand how she lights up every room she enters, bringing warmth, confidence, and positivity wherever she goes. Her natural charisma allows her to command a space with ease, while her kindness and professionalism leave a lasting impression on everyone she meets.
From walking red carpets in Hollywood and working on major television productions to taking the runway in the heart of Paris, Haven has embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm, dedication, and grace. Yet beyond her impressive accomplishments, she remains grounded, approachable, and genuinely passionate about everything she does. She is someone who truly makes the most of every experience, never shying away from a challenge and always approaching new adventures with curiosity and determination.
To conduct this interview, we met with Haven in Miami for a special editorial photoshoot inspired by the backstage life of a young artist. The story offers a glimpse into the world behind the spotlight, capturing the creativity, dedication, and passion that fuel every performance and appearance. Through both the imagery and our conversation, we hope to share the personality, determination, and spirit that have made Haven such a beloved member of the Junior Style community.
Special Thanks: Kidswear Collective for the wardrobe featured in this editorial.
Styling & Photography: Aleksandra Ataca
If someone who hadn’t seen you in a year met you today, what would they notice has changed the most about you?
I think they would notice a tremendous amount of personal growth, focus and purpose. Over the past year, I’ve been fortunate to receive some incredible opportunities that have allowed me to experience so many different aspects of industry firsthand. I have gained a lot of insight and feel more confident than ever that this is the right space for me. Everything I have been able to do this past year has helped to solidify my commitment to focus my time and energy on continuing my work in the world of entertainment, fashion, and media.
What has been the most important lesson you have learned over the past year?
That I don’t have to box myself into one category. The beautiful thing about being young is that I have the freedom to try different things and I don’t have to limit myself. I don’t have to choose just one passion. I’ve lived that experience personally this past year and I also see it in other successful young women in the industry who I admire. Look at someone like Selena Gomez who has built a wildly successful career as an actor, musician, influencer, and brand owner. That type of path is exciting to me and it’s empowering to know it’s all possible.
What accomplishment are you most proud of – not because of recognition, but because of what it meant to you personally?
Recently I am very proud of myself for successfully managing my school and work life balance this past year. I started attending a new school this year which is very academically rigorous, and I was able to achieve a 4.0 GPA while still working and traveling consistently.
What is one thing you’ve discovered about yourself that surprised you?
One thing I’ve realized about myself is that the older I get the more I genuinely love stepping into the unknown. This year I’ve had the opportunity to immerse myself into luxury fashion brand headquarters, successfully interview international industry leaders who speak different languages, present in front of hundreds of people, and step in front of the camera on set for large productions with incredibly talented actors. I’ve been able to experience parts of the corporate, entertainment and fashion world that are highly professional, exciting and new to me. Instead of being intimidated, I’ve learned that I thrive in these moments and love the challenge. I’ve discovered I am more fearless than I ever gave myself credit for.
This past year you were a part of several upcoming film projects; can you tell us more about that?
I had a wonderful time this past year working on set for two different television series. The first was a very special experience filming for a new live-action/animation hybrid series for Disney+. We actually filmed on set at Disneyland which was a dream come true. My very first television commercial was for Disney when I was younger, so continuing to work with them has been especially meaningful and remains an on-going career goal. My second opportunity was on an awesome Hulu sports drama series filmed at Paramount Studios. Being on set, doing what I love, in a place where so many iconic films and television series have been created, was incredibly motivating. Each experience strengthened my passion for the entertainment industry and reinforced my love of acting.
Was there a scene or moment that stayed with you long after the cameras stopped rolling?
The overall process really made an impact on me. One of the things that impressed me most is how many talented people collaborate behind the scenes to bring even a single moment to life on film. What you see on screen is only a tiny glimpse of what actually goes on. A five minute scene can take hours to film, with multiple takes and camera angles to ensure every detail is perfect. It has stayed with me how important patience and teamwork are to ensure success, which is a lesson that applies to all aspects of life.
You also had an opportunity to express yourself through singing recently. How was this different than expressing yourself through acting?
Yes! As a separate project I was recently able to professionally record vocals for a feature film soundtrack, which was very exciting. Singing has always been a part of who I am for as long as I can remember. My background is in musical theatre so professionally it is where I got my start, but even before that, singing and songwriting have always been woven into my life. One of the reasons I love music is that it allows for a different type of creativity and storytelling, in a way nothing else does. Singing brings me a lot of happiness.
What kind of stories are you most drawn to telling, whether through film, fashion, or music?
I prefer stories that draw a strong emotion from the listener or the viewer.
If you could choose any dream role or collaboration in the future, what would it be?
The dream would be a project that brings together everything that I love most – acting, music, fashion, business and storytelling. Imagine creating a new story with Disney for the screen and being a part of the process from the start. To help write, star in and execute something beautiful with the incredible Disney story tellers and their master visual artists would be everything. I would love to create a fun and complex character to play and of course it would have to have an insane soundtrack. MANIFESTING!
Looking back, which project from this past year feels the most meaningful or unforgettable to you?
This is a hard question to answer as I’m so grateful for all of my recent opportunities and I feel as if I’ve grown from each of them. The experience of working with the Monnalisa team at their headquarters in Arezzo, Italy was very meaningful to me. I believe it is very important to learn how a successful business is run and that knowledge and experience will be important no matter which direction I take in the future. It was a privilege to be able to access their company behind the scenes and the conversations that we had will stay with me.
You’ve been involved in fashion, entertainment, hosting and creative projects throughout the year. Which experience pushed you the most outside your comfort zone?
Working in France and Italy this year there were some language barriers at times, and I wished that I was able to communicate better in certain circumstances. It is actually what made me decide to take French in school this coming year.
Was there a fashion show, campaign, event, or appearance this year that felt like a real milestone?
I attended the 77th Emmy Awards and it was an unforgettable experience. As an actress, it was incredibly inspiring to be surrounded by such talent. The energy throughout the evening and being part of such an iconic celebration only further supported my determination and love of the industry. Walking the red carpet was also a highlight of the night as the looks were stunning and such a fun reminder how fashion and entertainment go hand in hand.
You’ve had the chance to meet and work with many creative people this year. Is there someone who inspired you or changed the way you think about your work?
Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan were both incredibly kind and supportive to me and encouraged my ambitions. To see the level of success they have both achieved and the longevity of their careers is inspiring. I also admire their bond and that they remain so close off screen. They are a good example that work can lead to some of the most special relationships. I have made some of my closest friends while working.
Hosting and speaking in front of audiences requires confidence in a different way. What have you learned about yourself through those experiences?
I’ve learned that a lot of confidence comes from preparation. If you’re prepared, it doesn’t matter if you’re speaking to one person or a hundred people.
Of all your roles this year – model, actress, singer, host, influencer, ambassador – which once challenged you the most and why?
I would say interviewing people is most challenging because you never know what the other person is going to say, so you need to be ready for anything.
What project are you most excited for people to see or discover?
While I’m excited for people to see my work in fashion and entertainment, I am also continuing to expand my commitment to philanthropy, and that would be something I would be proud for people to discover.
If you could relive one day from this past year exactly as it happened, which day would you choose?
I would probably choose September 22, which is my birthday. Every year it feels like a fresh start – a chance to set new goals and embrace new opportunities. It’s also a day that’s especially meaningful and fun for me, my mom always has the best and craziest surprises for me on my birthday. I look forward to them all year long.
You’ve been a Junior Style Ambassador for the past year. What has this experience meant to you beyond the title?
Being a Junior Style Ambassador has meant much more to me than just the title. It has been an incredible opportunity for growth, allowing me to experience so many different sides of fashion beyond modeling. I’ve gained valuable insight, built meaningful relationships and developed a much deeper appreciation for everything that goes into the industry. As someone who loves to learn and embrace new experiences, it’s been a lot of fun.
Looking back, what is your most treasured memory as a Junior Style Ambassador?
One of my most treasured memories was my first time hosting Children’s Show. That was a very cool moment for me, as hosting at that level was something I had not yet done before and it was exciting to push myself in a new direction. I would also say attending the industry parties in Paris, after walking in Kids Around Le Show, was pretty fabulous.
Many young people look up to you. What does being a role model mean to you personally?
Being a role model is something I never take for granted. To me, it means leading by example – working hard, being professional, and staying kind. I want younger people to see someone who isn’t afraid to be confident and ambitious.
Have you ever received a message from a child or a parent that reminded you why your work matters?
Yes, I have and those messages are some of the most meaningful. It is always a good reminder that what we do and how we carry ourselves can have a positive impact in ways we don’t always expect.
Who has been one of your biggest supporters this year and what would you like to thank them for?
I would like to thank my grandparents who have always been my biggest cheerleaders. They are always excited for me and the most fun to share good news with. If I ever need to talk and figure something out, they are always my first call.
How do you stay grounded while balancing school, friendship, family and your career?
It’s not hard to stay grounded as I am fortunate to be surrounded by good people who help to guide and support me. My family and friends are very understanding. I would say the most important thing is just time management and ensuring I stay organized with all of my commitments. For me school comes first and I always try to get ahead on my assignments and studying if I know I will be traveling or have a job coming up. It is easier to stay ahead than to catch up.
What is something people see online about you that doesn’t fully reflect your real life?
My online presence tends to lean a bit more professional and doesn’t always reflect the day to day stuff – going shopping with my friends, staying up late studying, how I love experimenting with hair and skin care. It also doesn’t usually show my athletic side or how much I love to read – especially a good mystery.
If you could write a letter to your future self to open in ten years, what would the first sentence say?
“Dear Haven, whatever you’re doing I hope you’re having the time of your life!”
What kind of person do you hope to become as you continue to grow?
I hope as I move through my teenage years, I continue to put myself out there as much as possible, and favor the word “yes” over “no”. I think that a big part of success is making sure to enjoy and utilize the time when you can just relax and have fun.
When your story is still being written years from now, what do you hope people will say mattered most about the way you lived, worked, and treated others?
I hope that years from now when people say my name, it makes them smile. If that’s the case, then I think I will have done something right because it means I made a positive impact on someone’s life. Maybe it’s because I starred in a movie that became their favorite, built at brand that they love, or helped make a difference for someone through charitable work. Or maybe it’s because of something simpler – listening to a friend, making someone laugh, or just choosing to being supportive when it mattered. I think the little things are more important than people realize. The small choices we make every day are what shape our character and lead us to the biggest accomplishments and the most meaningful legacy.
See more news about Haven Krys here
