At just 11 years old, Eva Leah is already showing the world what talent, courage, and vision can achieve. Over the past year, she has stepped into a bold new chapter — blending her passions for dance, modeling, and acting with a leap into the fashion world.
Her collaboration with John Richmond brought her artistic voice to life in a collection that’s confident, playful, and inspiring — just like her. From studio sessions in London to the launch at Saks Fifth Avenue, Eva has shown that dreams take shape when creativity, dedication, and courage come together.
This interview is extra special for Junior Style — we’ve watched Eva grow, shine, and step boldly into new opportunities, and we are proud to call her our very own ambassador. At Junior Style, we champion young talents and celebrate children’s voices, because they are our future. In this conversation, Eva shares her growth, creative discoveries, and the lessons she hopes will inspire every young dreamer to follow their own path.
1. Eva, we last spoke with you about a year ago. Looking back, how would you describe this past year in your own words?
This past year feels like acceleration. Everything I’ve been working toward — the training, the discipline, the long hours — began connecting in ways I couldn’t have imagined.It wasn’t just about the big moments. It was about the invisible work behind them — early mornings, rehearsals when I was exhausted, balancing school and travel. Those were the moments that shaped me the most. Dreams do unfold magically — when you stay consistent.
2. What moment from the past year feels like a true turning point for you?
The launch of my collection with John Richmond was a defining moment. I’ve always balanced dance, modeling, acting, and school, but this collaboration placed me on a larger platform. It wasn’t just about performing or showing up professionally; it was about stepping into a space where my ideas and perspective mattered. That moment — where preparation met opportunity — shifted how I see myself and what I’m capable of.
3. Since our last interview, how have you grown — both professionally and personally?
I’ve grown more confident in trusting my instincts. When you’re young, it’s easy to look for reassurance. This year taught me to stand behind my decisions and embrace my individuality. That confidence has changed how I move — on stage, on set, and in everyday life. I’m focused on refining myself.
4. Last year you shared your dreams with us. How have they evolved?
They’ve become more intentional. This year has been transformative, giving me the chance to see the results of all my dedication and hard work. My commitment to my craft and consistent training has helped me find my artistic voice as a dancer, bringing it fully to life through the incredible choreography I perform on stage. That same training prepared me for one of the most exciting moments of my career so far: walking the runway for John Richmond at London Fashion Week. I loved every moment of the show and the creative process leading up to it, and I felt confident throughout, thanks to my amazing dance teachers, Angel Armas and Victor Smalley.
5. With so many opportunities coming your way, how do you decide which ones feel right?
I am truly grateful for every opportunity that comes my way and feel that each one can teach me something new, give me a perspective, or an experience I can learn from. As new and exciting things present themselves I try to follow the ones that align with my artistic and personal values and also loop in my team for support. I also have learned to always follow my gut.
6. One of the highlights of your year was your collaboration with John Richmond. How did this partnership begin?
This collection has truly been a dream come true, and I’m so excited to share it with everyone soon. The John Richmond team first saw me perform at The Children’s Show, and from there, the conversations began. The process has taken almost a year, and I feel incredibly grateful to work alongside such talented and inspiring people, including John himself. It has truly been an honor.
7. What drew you to John Richmond’s creative world?
Something that drew me into John Richmond’s creative world was how his clothes made me feel like a completely new person. When l wear this collection it makes me feel like a princess and a cool girl at the same time. I hope you feel the same as I do when you’re wearing this magical capsule .
8. What did you learn from being involved in the full creative process?
I learned how much intention lives behind a single garment. From the first sketch to the final fitting, every detail carries meaning — fabric choices, tailoring, movement, styling. Being present in London, watching ideas evolve into finished pieces, completely transformed how I see fashion. It’s not just about appearance; it’s about storytelling and craftsmanship.
I always knew this collaboration would be special because I admire John’s work and creativity so much. The process allowed me to be involved in every step — from design to studio collaboration, fabric selection, and styling on set. I’ve learned so much and am incredibly proud of this collection; each piece is very close to my heart. More than anything, I hope it inspires girls to dream big, feel confident, stay active, and always practice gratitude. The most unexpected part was feeling like I gained a new family in the Richmond team — some of the kindest, most hardworking, and inspiring people I’ve ever met. I’ll always be grateful to them.
9. How did this collaboration push you outside your comfort zone?
Speaking up creatively was new for me. On stage, I express myself through movement. In design meetings, I had to articulate ideas clearly and confidently. That challenged me in a different way — and helped me grow.
10. Having your own event at Saks Fifth Avenue — a true fashion landmark — is something many designers dream of. What did that moment mean to you?
This is truly one of the biggest moments of my life. It means the world to me, and I feel so honored that Saks is sharing their incredible stage with John and me to celebrate kids’ fashion, creativity, and individuality. Being in a space where so many designers dream of standing is surreal, and I can hardly believe it’s real. I’m incredibly excited for what comes next and can’t wait to see where this collaboration and journey take us.
11. What message did you want this collection to express?
Belief — in yourself. We included the phrase “Gratitude is the sign of noble souls” because gratitude keeps you grounded while you grow. Ambition is important, but without gratitude, it feels incomplete.
12. Your personal style continues to evolve. How would you describe your aesthetic today?
I’d describe my aesthetic today as cool and edgy, and this John Richmond collection reflects that perfectly. At the same time, I love pink — it feels happy, full of energy, and magnetic. I wanted the collection to represent all sides of my personality, with pieces that can be runway-ready, special for an event, or perfect for a casual day out with friends.
There are also everyday essentials for spring and summer that are fun, comfortable, and inspiring. One of my favorite elements is the athleisure pieces, which connect to my foundation as a dancer. They can be worn to dance, for practice, warm-ups, or any athletic activity. This collection is really for every girl, and I can’t wait to see how she makes it her own!
13. After this experience, do you see yourself creating your own brand one day?
I can absolutely see myself creating my own brand one day, and this experience has been truly inspiring. Collaborating with such an incredible team gave me the chance to bring my voice and identity into every piece. Wearing the collection makes me feel confident and brave, and I hope everyone who experiences it feels that same energy and joy.
14. Looking ahead, what are you most excited to explore or discover in the next chapter of your journey?
I’m excited to explore this next chapter as an artist. This collection has strengthened my voice and confidence, and I can’t wait to see how it inspires my journey as a model, actress, and dancer — because I truly believe that all arts inspire and inform one another.
15. Finally, what advice would you give to young talents who dream of building a meaningful path in the fashion world?
To anyone reading this — kids, teens, or adults — I hope you always follow your dreams and believe in yourself. Most importantly, have fun along the way. You need to love the process as much as the end result. I hope this collection shows that anything is possible, and that if you can dream it, you truly can make it happen.
Photography: Aleksandra Ataca
READ INTERVIEW WITH JOHN RICHMOND HERE
