GZ: What challenges have you faced as a singer?

Ali: I think the biggest challenge is balancing my schoolwork with my desire to write, record and perform music.  It’s hard to do all these things at once and be really good at them all at the same time.  I’ve had to make choices to focus on my music.  It hasn’t always been easy but I love music so much it’s been worth it.

GZ: How have you managed to overcome these challenges?

Ali:I have a great support network around me and my teachers have been really understanding about making up schoolwork when I’m gone.  My parents too have made sure that I have my regular life and my high school education has been the first priority.