It's shaping up to be a v. exciting year for Kiya Barczyszyn—after spending the first part of 2022 recording and performing with girl group XOMG POP!, she's now branching out on her own, discovering her sound and digging into some big passion projects. Don't worry, we got *all* the deets on everything Kiya has going on...

READ: 8 things you didn't know about Kiya Barczyszyn

GL: OK, so what have you been up to lately?

Kiya: I'm so excited to become a solo artist and take on this new chapter in my life. I've done a lot more auditions, which is exciting because I hadn't done as much acting recently. I'd love to be in a sitcom—I grew up watching Zendaya on Disney Channel shows like Shake It Up and K.C. Undercover, so I'd love to be in something like that. I'm learning guitar, both acoustic and electric. And of course, I'm working on my original music.

GL: When it comes to acting, who's your dream co-star?

Kiya: Zendaya! Or Millie Bobby Brown, because I love Stranger Things. Maybe Miley Cyrus. I'm a big Hannah Montana girl.

GL: And how about your solo music?

Kiya: I want to keep it pop but be more edgy. Now that I'm a teenager, I'm leaning into more of that vibe. I really like the sound of No Doubt and Gwen Stefani and "Sunday Morning" is one of my favorite songs to cover. They have such a cool edge to them—I'd love to sound like that. I've also been working on "Try" by P!nk. That one is really fun. It's a little tricky, so there's always room for improvement.

GL: Does your fashion have that same edgy vibe?

Kiya: I'm definitely getting more into that Gen Z vibe, I can feel it! I'm getting more trendy. I love baggy jeans, graphic T-shirts with band names and flare pants.

GL: What's something you've learned about yourself as you're breaking out on your own?

Kiya: I've learned that I'm really strong. It was hard at first, but I like doing things on my own. Even when I was young, I'd always want to choose my own outfit and do my own hair and makeup. I'm very independent.

GL: What are you excited for in the future?

Kiya: More dance classes, acting, singing lessons, auditions and guitar practice. I'm working on my YouTube channel and starting up TikTok now that I'm 13. I'm also excited about possibly returning to school next year—I'm auditioning for a local arts school and would love to study dance or music.

GL: Anything you want to tell your fans?

Kiya: I just want to say thank you to anyone who's supported me along this journey. I didn't know how it would go—if I would still have my supporters. You know how the internet goes. But I continue to get nice messages, and so many fan edits, which I love. They always brighten my day. So thank you for that!

GL: And, possibly most importantly, is your signature pink hair going to stick around?

Kiya: I love my pink hair...but I've also considered switching it up. You'll have to stay tuned!