It’s an uncharacteristically warm November afternoon when Jordan Todosey walks into Chinatown’s Sonic Café. She’s perky and sweet as she introduces herself to the crew and I’m struck not only by her modest confidence but also by how vastly different the 16-year-old actress looks from Adam Torres, the female-to-male transgender character she plays on MuchMusic’s hit show Degrassi.

Wearing layers of tanks and an off-the-shoulder tee, Todosey pulls off an edgy but girly vibe. Her ears hold rows of earrings that include a reddish purple feather and chains; I later overhear her telling my editor she made some of the accessories herself.

Like her character, Jordan is in a life stage of transition. When we step outside into the alley behind the café for her photo shoot, she perfectly displays this juxtaposition as she poses in front of a purple brick wall. Ethereal, soft and feminine in a black lace short sleeve overlay and pink tulle skirt, she poses gracefully, gliding between shots.