Name: Renee Bargh
Age: 22
Occupation: TV presenter, VJ channel V

She's a well-known face as a high energy VJ on channel V, so it's no surprises that Renee is an extremely driven, passionate, emotional and honest person. A go-getter who has clear goals in sight and a tenacity to make things happen, she's also passionate about music, travel, the ocean, surf and sand! And, friends and family are extremely important.

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
There were a couple of older girls in my dancing school that I looked up to. Celebrity-wise, I really admired Tyra Banks when I was a teen, as she was such a successful model who didn't only rely on her looks. She's smart and a great business woman who has made a career for herself.

How did your role model/s help you?
They helped me to look up to girls that were in the industry I wanted to be in. It made it seem possible for me, and I just wanted to push myself further and not be afraid to try to achieve my dreams.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
Creating a positive image for other people, inspiring them to follow their dreams but to stay grounded and true to themselves in the process.

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
It was a very awkward stage for me. Puberty can be very embarrassing, and girls can be very mean. I was very skinny and would get teased for that a lot. I was a victim of bullying and couldn't understand why girls would be mean to me. I also couldn't understand at the time why my parents wouldn't let me go to parties.

How did you overcome these issues?
I was lucky to be very determined and passionate about sports and dance and school and it helped me to get through those times. Although they are also probably the reasons I was targeted. But of course I didn't see that at the time. Once i got to dance class everything felt right again and I could forget about everything that was going on at school and just dance!

What do you remember most about being a teen?
I remember going to dance class all day on a Saturday and getting really excited about eisteddfods and concerts. I loved dancing! I also loved having sleepovers with my girlfriends, eating junk and watching movies. I miss sleepovers and going to the beach with all my friends and my family!

What qualities do you think you possess that has helped you succeed in your chosen field?
I am very driven and focussed. I try to aim very high and am always wanting to push myself even further. When I have an audition or assignment I will put all my energy into doing the best job I can possibly do.

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
I am proud to be an independent woman who can look after myself. I'm proud that I moved to a new city and made new friends that I love and trust. It was a risk but one that paid off.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I am now an ambassador for Cure our Kids, which is a charity supporting the oncology unit at Westmead hospital. I also put myself forward for as many charity events as I can. I think it's very important to help other kids that may not see themselves being able to achieve their dreams see that you are a normal person and that they can do it too.

When it comes to how you live your life, what are the most important factors/values?
Time to myself - either going for a walk or immersing myself in a good book. I often read biographies or autobiographies about inspirational people. Quality time with my friends and family, and eating good food! I love food and getting outdoors and being active. Taking care of my body and mind keeps me feeling good, and being at the ocean has always helped to clear my mind so I spend as much time at the beach as I can.

Why do you think you make a good role model?
Because I have worked very hard to get where I am, and have always believed in myself no matter how hard things got. Not everything I have been a part of has been successful, but i got back on the horse and tried again, and always with a smile! I also try to lead a healthy and active lifestyle without stressing about weight and body issues. I think that it is very important for young teens to focus on the more important things in life.