She’s a reality star who captured attention as one of the 30 bachelorettes on season 21 of ABC’s The Bachelor. Before stepping into the spotlight, she was working as a photographer—a creative passion that kept her busy right up until she joined the show at just 23 years old. Hailing from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, she brings a calm and grounded energy that fans quickly warmed up to. Her mother, Michele Merkt, has been a strong presence in her life, and family means a lot to her. She shares a close bond with her two siblings, Kyle Merkt and Jenny Merkt, making for a supportive and loving household. And when she’s not in the public eye, you’ll often find her spending quality time with her pet dog, Snuggles, who’s more than just a pet—really more like family. Her journey from a young photographer in Canada to a familiar face on national television is definitely one worth following.
She went to China with a heartfelt mission—to build schools and teach in orphanages, dedicating her time and energy to making a real difference. Her journey was inspired by a deep sense of compassion, and throughout her stay, she consistently showed what true commitment looks like. She didn’t just visit; she immersed herself in the communities, working hand in hand with local teams to create lasting change. Everywhere she went, her presence brought hope, especially in the orphanages where her lessons lit up children’s faces. She truly believed in the power of education, and that belief guided every step she took across villages and cities alike. In the end, her efforts weren’t just about constructing buildings—she was building futures. And through it all, she remained humble, focused, and driven by purpose.