Alessandra Tognini has loved acting from a young age

Alessandra Tognini is a local acting talent who was recently cast in season two of The Twelve TV series.

What has been the biggest hurdle in getting this far in acting?

Having to learn to deal with a lot of rejection. At first it was really hard to constantly get told no, but now it’s just a part of it. After an audition I usually forget about it almost instantly and therefore don’t even think about not getting the part.

How and when did you start acting?

I have an older brother who used to do drama classes. When I was really young, I wanted to be exactly like my brother and do everything that he did so I begged my parents to let me do those classes too. Eventually they gave in and I just fell in love with it and have been doing it ever since.

What is your greatest achievement outside acting?

My greatest achievement outside of acting is probably graduating high school. Finishing school was always very important for me so I was super proud of myself for getting through it.

Who is someone that excels in their field that inspires you?

I’m really inspired by the Matildas. I think it’s so cool what they are doing for women’s sport in Australia and around the world since the World Cup. I’ve loved watching their games for years now and I think it’s awesome that tickets for their games are selling out super-fast.

What talent do you wish you had?

I wish I was good at sport! I love watching sport but unfortunately, I don’t have an athletic bone in my body so have never really excelled in that field, but I often wish my parents had forced me into soccer or something when I was a kid.

If you were going to a fancy-dress party, what costume would wear?

I bought a Spider-Man costume for my last day of year 12 and have worn it to every Halloween/ costume party since.

What is your least favourite food?

Ever since I was young, I have hated tomatoes. I have tried to grow up and force myself to like them, but it’s never worked.

How do you spend your spare time?

I like to spend my spare time with my friends, doing anything; going to eat, going shopping and watching movies. In summer I love to go to the beach or just spending all day relaxing and reading.

What’s your favourite . . . ?

Music artist: Taylor Swift.

Item of clothing: I like to collect shirts from op-shops that have very specific or funny sayings on them.

Food: Pasta.

TV show: Gilmore Girls.

Smell: Rain in summer.

AFL football team: Collingwood.