A Conversation with Sway Bhatia

Photo credit: Corinne Louie

Tell us about your work with The Mighty Ducks.

I play Sofi Hanson Bhatt on The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers. She is a fierce and strong young woman who is going through the struggle of finding her voice. The show follows a young group of outcasts who find their spot in the competitive sport of hockey. They face many obstacles, but they work hard to get to the top. I’m so honored to take on the role of Sofi and be a role model for many young girls, especially young girls of color.

What inspired you to get into this space?

Growing up, I have always had a love for the entertainment industry. It started with my love for Bollywood. I grew up in Dubai and by the time I was 3 years old, I was on a stage. My first performance was with Priyanka Chopra. While living in Dubai, I had two of the most talented women like Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone to watch on screen and inspire me along the way. I would reenact many Bollywood scenes in my living room and grab props from around the house to make it perfect. At 6 years old, I moved back to America and started pursuing my dreams professionally in New York. I knew I was right where I needed to be to reach my goals. 

You’re a multi-hyphenate: an actress, singer, model, dancer, drummer, the list goes on. How did you cultivate all of these talents?

I love to learn new things! Sometimes, it is challenging to make time for all my interested, but it’s been a constant for me since a very young age. Everyday I train after school daily, and get to train in several different things throughout the week. I make time to train in vocals, dance, and songwriting, These are passions of mine, so it is important that I keep them up! Music, especially, has become an outlet for me and I love learning new genres.

What are your thoughts on the current state of Asian representation in the media?

I honestly think we are doing better. From where it was when I started in this industry to now, I think there has been an improvement for sure. People like Mindy Kaling and Priyanka Chopra are constantly inspiring the media and representing Asians in many ways. I look up to them and hope to continue what they started and hope to find myself in the same space to grow. 

How do you feel your cultural heritage influences your work?

Staying true to my culture is one of the most important things to me. I try to influence my followers with my culture and educate them on my background. For example, last year, I performed at a Diwali event in Times Square and sang both American and Indian songs. I like to find that balance between my American and Indian background and take every opportunity I can to represent who I truly am. 

As an Overachiever, it can be difficult to allow yourself - or even remember - to make time to relax. How do you take care of yourself?

Downtime can be very vital. I love being in this industry, but my family makes sure I am taking care of myself. We love to travel and take vacations. It is very important and helpful to find those pockets of peace. I consider my music training downtime too! Getting to express my experiences is very therapeutic.

What’s next for you?

I hope to keep working and inspiring as much as I can. My ultimate goal would be to have my music and acting careers side by side. I am spending time building my original material and preparing to make them final products. I am also gearing up for season 4 of SUCCESSION.

Finally, we ask this question of every interviewee: what do you think the biggest problem facing Asian women and non-binary people today is?

 I think Asian women, non-binary people and all minority groups need to stand in their truth and lean into their respective authenticity. We are voicing our abilities and as we stand together more and more, this collective effort enables us to overcome obstacles.