Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Scholten.
Shelly, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am originally from Vancouver, Canada and I moved to Los Angeles when I was 21 years old. I had left cheerleading for the Canadian football league prior to moving to Los Angeles. My first job in LA was at a gym. I wanted to get into acting and modeling, but needed something to keep me stable while I pursued my passion! Modeling took off pretty quickly, and I started attending castings and photoshoots every week. I quickly fell into working as a model mainly in Los Angeles, but also Miami, New York, Vancouver and other cities! When I first moved to LA, Instagram wasn’t nearly as popular is it is now. I slowly grasped the idea of creating a social media presence to push me further in the industry. I have worked on a few TV shows, and some of the castings came to me through my social media. I’ve worked on tons of commercials and a handful of music videos as the lead with great storylines.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t always been smooth. There were times I almost couldn’t make rent because I wasn’t booking any work, or I was waiting on a delayed paycheck. This is more common than you’d think. LA is full of people taking a leap of faith, to follow their dreams and it comes with the territory when you don’t have back up. I didn’t come from a wealthy family who could support me if I fell, so it was just never an option for me to fall. Somehow I always figured it out. I truly believe the energy you put into the universe is what you will receive. There were many struggles, yes. But it made all the victories that much greater!
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I currently have been noticed most by fans in India for my performance in a video called Hukam Da Yakka which hit over ten million views. I try to always respond to messages from people who reach out to me encouraging me on this journey! I am most proud of always staying true to who I am in an industry that can be so judgmental and comparing. Also, having a niche that is unique in the industry. For me, that is riding motorcycles! Although I am taking some time off work and riding my motorcycle because I am Pregnant!! Due in May.
Congrats!! That’s so exciting – Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Over the years my motto has been Quality over Quantity. Meaning, I’m not the girl showing up to all the biggest parties in LA. I keep my circle tight and genuine. Being kind to everyone has always been something that set me apart. I would have casting directors specifically calling me back just because they liked my presence and wanted to see me succeed. I think a lot of people don’t understand the importance of simply being kind.
Contact Info:
- Email: bookshellysho.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shellysho/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Shellyascholten/?ref=bookmarks
Image Credit:
Angela So
Nick Thiessen
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