Bindi Irwin–daughter of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin and mom Terri Irwin–has changed a lot since her dad’s passing when she was just eight years old. Turning 17 on Friday, Bindi Irwin now has a boyfriend. But it seems as though her famous dad is still by her side–living on in her thoughts and her actions.

During a recent interview with Entertainment Tonight, Bindi dished about growing up, and about her boyfriend.

“There is someone special in my life right now, and I’m really happy with that,” she said. “Life is wonderful at the moment.”

Bindi Irwin seems to shield herself with a slight veil of privacy–more than her dad was ever allowed. She doesn’t divulge the name of her boyfriend, and even keeps that private when she posts on social media. Instead she shares memories of her dad, words of kindness and respect for nature, and she displays a maturity that makes many Hollywood celebrities in their teens appear frivolous, spoiled, and–in many cases–vulgar.

A photo posted by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin) on Jul 13, 2015 at 2:04pm PDT

It was about a year ago when Bindi talked fashion, and how teenagers need to wear clothing that doesn’t flaunt all their assets.

“I mean, for me, I look around at a lot of young girls that are my age, and they’re always trying to dress older,” she said. “Whether it’s wearing revealing clothes or hardly wearing any clothes at all, I feel really bad for them.”

Bindi Irwin seems grounded. Terri Irwin has no doubt been a very hands-on mom, working double time in the absence of her late husband.

“Mom and Dad are truly my heroes,” Bindi Irwin said. “And I have to say, so is my little brother, Robert. He’s 11, and he’s just the most amazing boy. He’s so much like Dad sometimes, it’s a bit scary. Dad is and always will be my living, breathing superhero.”

They grow up so fast! @BindiIrwin recently revealed that she is seeing someone http://t.co/DVWlJO8dWH pic.twitter.com/EZfssF66k8

— People magazine (@people) July 21, 2015

Bindi Irwin sets a wonderful example for young women. Compare her to many Hollywood teens and the fresh-faced, beautiful, wholesomeness she exudes is completely refreshing.

Surely the media will scope out the name of Bindi Irwin’s boyfriend, and they will wind up victims of the paparazzi. But for now, may she enjoy the innocence of young love and a world that is a bit more shielded than that of countless other famous teens. And may she continue spreading her dad’s message of appreciating wildlife and nature.