She is the first  Vietnamese baby born in Toronto. She dances. She sings. She acts. She writes music. Her name is Hevin, and she "Discover The Light."

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V - Being the first Vietnamese baby born in Toronto must have felt very special?

Hevin: It's one of those interesting things that I sometimes think about and can't believe because now there are many Vietnamese people living in Toronto. So it seems a bit unreal.

V - Tell us about your childhood. You mentioned it was painful – What impact does it have on you today?

Hevin: My childhood was indeed painful at times. However, I think dealing with challenges at such a young age has made me more focused on my future. I have changed a lot in the past few years. I personally feel that I have come a long way, and I am adapting to different ways of thinking and living to make a difference in my life. This is basically the reason why I chose the title "Discover The Light" for my cd. The cd greatly reflects my personal journey.

V - Isn’t “follow your heart” the hardest thing?

Hevin: Many people struggle with the idea of following their hearts, and so they choose not to. Which is completely understandable for certain reasons. However, I would feel stifled not doing things that I am passionate about. Being involved in the performing arts is a fantastic hobby, and whether I make a career out of it or not, I would never stop doing it.

V - What is it about singing and dancing that draw so much interest from you?

Hevin: I enjoy the arts because it's therapeutic. It's a healthy vent for me to pour my feelings into and express myself. I find peace from the hectic world in allowing my creativity to flow and see what the end result is. Moreover, being an only child for 21 years had it's lonely moments, so being involved in the arts always kept me very busy.

V - About your soon to be released CD – what does “Discover The Light” mean to you?

Hevin: The title of my cd "Discover The Light" is about my own personal discoveries. The songs are mostly about finding love, faith, hope, and trusting in God. Every song has a positive message which reflects how I feel right now. In time I realized that after every hardship, there is a light.

V - Your inspiration?

Hevin: My main inspiration in life is my mother. She is the most wonderful and kindest person I know. And I am not saying that because she is my mother, but because it is the truth. I look up to her so much being such a positive role-model to me. She has built a great life for herself and has risen from many challenges. Yet still, she remains the sweetest person one could ever meet.

V - Are you in any way influenced by Vietnamese music and culture – in your arts and way of life?

Hevin: I listen to Vietnamese music, and plan on learning some of the songs when I get a chance. I am very influenced by Vietnamese culture as it is what I have been surrounded by all my life. I absolutely love my culture! I adore everything from Vietnamese food to the wonderful friendliness of the people. The culture definitely affects how I live my life today. I try hard to carry on the important traditions and family values that my mother has instilled in me. In the future when I have a family of my own, I plan to teach my children the same positive messages my parents have taught me.

V - What are your takes on Vietnamese music?

Hevin: I have listened to a lot of Vietnamese music in the past. I find the slow melodies very soothing. My mom often picks out her favorite songs and translates them for me since I cannot always make out the meaning. From her description, I can tell that Vietnamese music is extremely emotional and moving.

V - You visited Vietnam, describe your feeling when you were there.

Hevin: I visited Vietnam for the first time two years ago, and I had an amazing time! Vietnam is gorgeous! It was a very special trip that I desperately wanted to take to remind myself of where my ancestors and original homeland is. Although I had a nice time in Vietnam, I also felt a sense of sadness at times. I saw a lot of hungry children suffering, and my heart ached. I just wished I could do something to help them.

V - If you were to say one thing to an aspiring artist – what would it be?

Hevin: I would give an aspiring artist the same advice I give myself, which is "don't allow fear to cripple you". If you love what you do more than anything, then learn as much as you can about it, and never stop growing. Let yourself shine. As long as you work hard and try your best, that is all that really matters. If you fall, at least you know you tried!
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Hevin is currently working with two wonderful producers. Wolf J. Wikeley of MSF Station and Corey Johnson of Owensound studios. Corey describes Hevin as "A Delerium/Enya flavour of smooth pads and hunting airy vocals"

To find out more about Hevin: http://dear.to/hevin
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