Valerie Gallardo is a 13-year-old actress with a passion for performance, creativity, and connection. Originally from Canada, she discovered her love for acting at a young age after watching different types of movies and characters. She realized she wanted to try it herself one day.
Outside of acting, Valerie loves to travel, spend time with her friends, and enjoy the simple things in life. Whether she’s baking, cooking, or organizing her space, she always brings care and attention to everything she does. She values kindness, fun, and being thoughtful toward others.
She is fluent in English, Spanish, and French, and is known for being organized, curious, and quietly determined, always ready to learn, grow, and challenge herself.
So far, Valerie has taken steps toward her acting dreams by working with professional coaches such as Connor Weil and Robert Vito. She is excited to continue learning and building her skills. With a big imagination and an even bigger heart, she hopes to work in film or television one day and inspire others to follow their passions, just like she is doing now.
HELLO VALERIE GALLARDO, WELCOME TO ABOUT INSIDER! WHAT GOT YOU INTO ENTERTAINMENT THAT MADE YOU REALIZE THAT IT WAS YOUR CHOSEN PATH?
I always thought it would be fun to be an actress. From a young age, I would make funny voices around the house and try to get little laughs out of my family. I also did gymnastics and played the clarinet in band, and through those experiences, I realized how much I loved performing and making people smile.
With some encouraging words and support, my family and I decided to take my interest more seriously after we saw an audition ad on Instagram. We decided to give it a try — and from there, everything changed. I began training and eventually had the opportunity to attend iPOP!, taking my first steps into the world of entertainment with excitement and confidence
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING HAVE YOU RECEIVED SO FAR AHEAD OF IPOP!?
I completed online training with Connor Weil and Robert Vito from NYLA Talent, focusing on developing my acting skills, on-camera presence, and confidence. I also attended a few classes with Ryan Pinkston, which enhanced my technique and allowed me to explore different characters in a supportive environment.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ROLES YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN?
Although I haven’t been cast in a show yet, I’ve gained experience practicing commercials and performing monologues. When I was younger, I played a magician bunny in a drama camp, which helped me explore comedic timing and physical expression. For a school project, I played a gossip girl, which allowed me to work on building a strong character personality. In a self-tape, I’ve portrayed an overwhelmed person trying to handle too much at once, as well as an over-thinker, which helped me develop emotional range and connect more deeply to different mindsets.
WHAT ACCENTS AND DIALECTS CAN YOU DO?
I can currently do a rough British and Australian accent, and while I don’t consider them perfect just yet, I enjoy playing around with them and practicing whenever I can.
WHAT LANGUAGES CAN YOU SPEAK?
I love to learn new languages and travel. I am fluent in English, Spanish, and French, and so far, I have visited Mexico, Venezuela, the Dominican Republic and USA. I really enjoy immersing myself in different cultures and adapting to new environments.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE PROJECTS THAT YOU TYPICALLY PREFER?
I would love to act in action movies, comedies, and TV series. I’m drawn to roles that bring laughter, joy, or even deep emotional connection to the audience. Whether it’s making people laugh or touching their hearts, I hope my performances leave a lasting impression.
I also want to be a positive role model for younger people—someone they can look up to and feel inspired by. I believe in taking chances and trying new things, because you never know what amazing opportunities might come from simply saying “yes” to something new.
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR AN AUDITION?
When I prepare for an audition, I start by carefully reading through the script and memorizing my lines. I take time to understand the character and the emotions behind the words, and I try to bring the lines to life in a way that feels natural and expressive. Whether it’s a dramatic scene or a fun commercial, I focus on making the performance my own.
My parents play an important role in my preparation. My mom helps coach me through the scenes, offering suggestions and corrections to help me improve with each take. My dad also encourages me and gives me different perspectives that help me grow. I really value hearing different opinions because it helps me see the scene from new angles and adjust my performance in meaningful ways.
I practice consistently repeating my lines out loud, trying different tones or facial expressions, and rehearsing in front of my family. I also plan out what I want to say in my introduction and how I want to deliver it, making sure I speak clearly and with confidence. I always put effort into sounding natural, staying calm, and walking into every audition prepared, focused, and ready to give it my best.
HAS THERE BEEN ONE PARTICULAR MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE SO FAR THAT YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF?
I’m really proud of the opportunity I had to attend iPOP! and showcase my talent. One of my biggest accomplishments was having the confidence to step on stage and perform my monologues and commercials with the energy and presence they required.
What makes this moment even more meaningful is that I achieved all of this in just a few months — starting fresh in January and working hard to get to this point, including being part of both iPOP! and NYLA Talent. The progress I’ve made in such a short amount of time is something I’m incredibly proud of, and it motivates me to keep pushing forward.
WHO ARE YOUR INFLUENCES GROWING UP THAT HELPED TO MOLD YOU INTO WHO YOU ARE TODAY?
Someone I look up to the most is my mom. I admire her for her strength, patience, and the constant support she gives me no matter what. I see her as someone who is loyal and honest — someone who speaks up when it’s needed and stands up for others when they’re being treated unfairly.
She has encouraged me every step of the way in my acting journey — helping me prepare, cheering me on, and always reminding me to stay true to myself. I’m inspired by how kind and caring she is toward everyone, and how she manages to balance so much with love and resilience.
As I continue to chase my dreams, I hope to carry those same values with me: to stay grounded, treat others with kindness, and work hard — just like my mom has always shown me.
IF YOU HAD ONE MESSAGE TO GIVE TO YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
If I could give my younger self one message, it would be to keep going — even when things don’t go exactly as planned. I would remind myself that not booking a role or not advancing as quickly as I hoped doesn’t mean I’m not talented or worthy. Every step counts, even the small ones, and progress takes time.
I would tell myself to stay resilient and trust that the right opportunity will come when it’s meant to. And when it gets hard — because it will — I’d say, “Don’t give up. You’re growing, even when you can’t see it.”
I’d also remind myself not to compare my path to others. Just because someone else seems ahead doesn’t mean I’m behind, they’re simply living a different story. I have my own unique journey, and it’s one worth believing in. I’d tell myself to stay focused on my goals, celebrate my own wins, and keep working hard, knowing that what’s meant for me will never miss me.
IF YOU WEREN’T A PASSIONATE ACTOR, WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU BE DOING?
If I weren’t pursuing acting, I would love to become a dermatologist or start my own business. Both paths appeal to me because they involve qualities I really value: organization, preparation, and precision. As a dermatologist, I’d have the chance to help people directly, using those skills to make others feel more confident and cared for in their own skin.
On the other hand, I’ve also dreamed of owning a quiet café — or even a chain of small, cozy café-style shops around the world. I imagine warm, peaceful spaces where people can relax, work, or study comfortably. For me, building something like that would be about creating calm, welcoming environments that bring people joy and comfort — just in a different way than performing does.
WHAT IS ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
If I had to choose one word to describe myself, it would be authentic. I take pride in being true to who I am and never try to act like someone else just to fit in. For me, being authentic means showing up fully as myself — honest, real, and unapologetically unique. I believe that if someone doesn’t accept me for who I truly am, that’s their problem, not mine.
I value honesty, kindness, and staying grounded in what matters most to me. I don’t shy away from expressing my thoughts, even when they’re different from others’. And while I know not everyone will share the same views or values, I believe those differences are opportunities to learn, grow, and understand each other better. If there’s a disagreement, I prefer to talk it through and find a solution, rather than pretending to be someone I’m not.
Being authentic helps me connect with others in a real way, and it’s also what gives me confidence — both on and off stage. Whether I’m performing or just spending time with the people I care about, I lead with honesty and heart.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE ACTORS AND SINGERS TODAY?
Someone I really look up to is Ariana Grande. I admire her not just for her incredible talent, but for how far she’s come in her career. She started acting and singing at a young age, and through hard work, passion, and determination, she became one of the most well-known and respected performers in the world. What inspires me most is how she has stayed true to herself through all the ups and downs of fame. Even during difficult times, she kept growing — both personally and professionally. Her journey reminds me that if you truly believe in yourself and keep putting in the work, you can achieve amazing things. Ariana’s confidence, resilience, and ability to connect with her audience are all qualities I hope to carry into my own career.
I’m also really inspired by Sabrina Carpenter, both as an actress and a singer. I love her music and the emotion she brings to each song, and I’ve always admired the roles she’s played in different shows and movies. I think it’s amazing how she uses her voice and platform to express herself creatively and connect with her fans. Her passion and versatility remind me of how powerful storytelling through performance can be.
And then there’s Anne Hathaway, who I see as such a timeless and versatile actress. I admire how she continues to take on bold, emotionally rich, and unforgettable roles — from iconic classics to fresh, modern films. Her grace, her dedication to her craft, and her lasting impact in the industry inspire me to believe that I, too, can grow into a meaningful and successful career in acting.
Together, these three women represent the kind of artist I want to become — someone who leads with heart, stays true to herself, and connects with others through honest, powerful performances.
DO YOU PLAY ANY SPORTS OR INSTRUMENTS, IF SO WHICH IS YOUR FAVORITE?
I’ve played several instruments and participated in different activities over the years, including clarinet, gymnastics, and piano. Out of all of them, my favorite was definitely the piano. I studied it for many years and enjoyed every part of the process from learning how to read music to expressing different emotions through sound.
What I loved most was the feeling of working hard on a piece and then watching it come to life under my fingers. Performing for others gave me a real sense of joy and accomplishment, and I appreciated how music could shift from something soft and emotional to something upbeat and fun. Although I eventually completed my lessons, the experience left a lasting impression on me, and I still value everything I learned from it.
WHAT WOULD YOUR DREAM JOB BE?
In the future, I would love to play main characters in a series or movie. I’m especially drawn to roles that are funny, sarcastic, or the “know-it-all” type, because they bring so much personality, energy, and presence to the screen. These kinds of characters are often the most memorable parts of a story, and I love how they allow me to explore my comedic timing and show my playful side as an actress.
At the same time, I’m really open and excited about taking on new challenges. I believe acting is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and discovering new parts of yourself through the characters you portray. I’d love to dive into more dramatic or emotional roles, and I’m especially intrigued by the idea of playing a villain or someone who goes through a deep transformation over time.
What excites me most is the opportunity to create characters that inspire people, make them feel understood, or just bring a little more emotion to their day. No matter what role I take on, I’m committed to bringing honesty, depth, and a spark of fun to every character I play.
FOR FUN! IF YOU WENT BACK TO THE GOLDEN ERA OF HOLLYWOOD, WHICH ACTOR DO YOU RESONATE WITH MOST AND WHY?
If I could go back to the golden era of Hollywood, the actor I resonate with most would be Audrey Hepburn. She was known for her timeless grace, authenticity, and strong sense of self. Audrey stood out not just for her incredible talent, but for her kindness and poise, all qualities I deeply admire.
To me, Audrey Hepburn’s legacy wasn’t just about fame. It was about impact, intention, and staying authentic. That’s exactly the kind of path I want to follow.
WHAT IS YOUR THING TO DO WITH YOUR FRIENDS?
One of my favorite things to do with my friends is go to the mall. I love walking around, exploring new stores, grabbing snacks, and just enjoying the fun of being together. Whether we’re trying something new or just window-shopping and talking for hours, the mall is one of our favorite spots to hang out and connect.
I also really enjoy going to the movies, especially with movie theatre popcorn, which I think is amazing. But sometimes, there’s nothing better than a cozy movie night at home. My friends and I love having movie marathons, watching old favourites or discovering new ones. We especially love watching horror movies that get our hearts racing, not necessarily because they’re scary, but because the thrill and our reactions are just so much fun.
We also love going on little adventures, like climbing to the highest part of the jungle gym at the park just to take silly pictures or even going on spontaneous late-night walks through the woods. I really enjoy those simple but exciting moments that turn into the best memories. And of course, dancing around and playing Just Dance always brings out the laughter and keeps the energy high.
At the heart of it all, I just love being around people who make me feel happy and understood. Talking with my friends, laughing until it hurts, and making memories together — that’s what I enjoy most.
HAVE YOU SET ANY 2025 PROFESSIONAL GOALS TO ACHIEVE?
I’ve already made incredible progress toward my professional goals by putting myself out there and performing live in front of agents, managers, and casting directors. Taking that step took a lot of preparation, but it also required courage, confidence, and heart. For me, it wasn’t just about getting on stage — it was about proving to myself that I’m ready to pursue my dreams in a real and meaningful way. That moment is something I’m deeply proud of, and I see it as a turning point in my journey.
Looking ahead to 2025, I’ve set some clear and realistic goals for my next chapter. At the top of my list is signing with a talent agency or manager who believes in me and shares my values. I also want to start auditioning more regularly and hopefully book my first professional role — whether that’s in a commercial, a TV show, or even a small part in a film. I know that every opportunity, no matter how big or small, helps me grow and move forward.
I understand that success in this industry doesn’t happen overnight. It takes patience, hard work, and a strong belief in yourself. I’m fully committed to that mindset. I believe that even the smallest steps, when taken with intention, can lead to something great. And more than anything, I’m proud of how far I’ve already come — and I’m excited for everything I’m working toward in the year ahead.
WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT ATTENDING IPOP!?
What I loved most about attending iPOP! was the opportunity to perform and take part in the acting bootcamps. Those workshops gave me a real chance to grow, push my limits, and learn in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Some moments took me out of my comfort zone — especially when I had to improvise or step into roles that felt unfamiliar — but that’s exactly where I found the most growth.
One of the biggest highlights for me was gaining confidence speaking into a microphone in front of a big audience. That experience helped me feel more comfortable on stage and more grounded in my presence. I also really enjoyed meeting the agents and casting directors, especially the ones who gave me callbacks. They brought so much positive energy and kindness, and their encouragement made me feel truly seen and supported.
Overall, iPOP! helped me grow not just as a performer, but as a person — and it’s an experience I’ll carry with me always.
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO FOLLOW YOU ONLINE?
You can follow me on Instagram at @officialvaleriegallardo
