Inspiring Stories from Hollywood

The heart of our mission at VoyageLA is to find the amazing souls that breathe life into our city. In the recent weeks we’ve had the privilege to connect with some of Hollywood’s finest artists, creatives, entrepreneurs and rabble rousers and we can’t begin to express how impressed we are with our city’s incredibly deep talent pool.  Check out Hollywood’s rising stars below.

Joe Rodriguez

Uncertain of my next steps, I moved to Indiana with my best friend, Thomas, and began working in factories, where no experience was required. I was hired by Millennium, where I operated machinery for car motor parts. The compensation was decent, and I began developing valuable skills. Eventually, I secured a better-paying position at Supreme Industries as a line worker. For the first time in my life, I was earning money I had never experienced before—even during my upbringing. That financial progress served as motivation for me. Read more>>

Antwan Lawshe

When i was a kid (like 8) i use to act a bit and would be in hollywood on auditions all the time. i ended up landing a KFC commercial and while on the set i was kinda mesmerised by all the moving pieces and it sparked my interest in knowing more about the roles each of these people played. Fast forward to adulthood I find myself enjoying great stories and telling them and imagining the visual component of these stories as well, so i did what i needed to do to put myself through film school. While there i was able to find the role that best suited my skill set, Director/Writer. Read more>>

Jewelriet

Life is tough and it makes us tough. So much so that we forget we were made to be treated gently. I was a good student growing up. I did what I was told to get the A and that continued into adult life. I found people to tell me what to do because I wanted to be part of something big even if I had to make myself small. I kept waiting for their permission to be an artist. After all, they had Wikipedia creds and I was just me. They told me I didn’t deserve to make art because I wasn’t extraordinary. I knew they were wrong. But when you hear something repeated enough times, you start to believe it. Read more>>

Bailey Curbow

Originally from Columbus Ohio, I dropped out of photography school at 20 and moved to Denver for a photo internship. I spent three and a half years there doing photography then transitioning into modeling. In 2018 I visited LA and a month later I was living out here! The city made me feel alive and want to chase my dreams of being a full time creative. I worked in restaurants out here for the first four years while doing a lot of trade for print shoots to build my portfolio. Just over three years ago I quit my service industry job to pursue modeling and acting full time. I have had the opportunity to act and model in some really amazing projects and even made my own short film, Fame Juice. Read more>>

Abimael Acosta

A career in the arts, especially as a writer, in my case, is a tough one that demands a great deal of inner strength. Artists are constantly exposed to judgment and criticism from those who view our work. Often, people who have no understanding of the effort, time, and energy that go into a project feel entitled to tear it down with criticism that isn’t always rooted in objective criteria. Read more>>

Kayla Creightney

It hasn’t been a smooth road and honestly I’m okay with the difficulties. There were moments where I had to take a step back and build a relationship with myself outside of my art before becoming confident again to create. Taking breaks to improve myself was difficult because at first I was so hard on myself for not photographing. But then I realized that taking a break from art doesn’t make me any less of an artist. Read more>>

Zamythi

I was born and raised in Guatemala, in a household where my music options were pretty limited. For most of my early life I only got the opportunity to listen to music outside of my home like at school or events, I listened mainly to Latin genres like cumbia, bachata, reggaetón, and lots of dancehall. The most outside-the-box I got was artists like YMCMB, Mac Miller, and Kid Cudi. It wasn’t until I turned 19 and moved to Los Angeles that I really started exploring other genres, and it felt like stepping into an entirely new world. Read more>>

Dena Dizdar Plumer

Once my kids went to college it was time to focus on my dreams. I wrote a TV pilot but I didn’t know what to do with it. So I went back to school and got my MFA from Stephens College in TV and screenwriting. It delivered exactly what I needed: 2 weeks in LA every semester learning from the best writers Hollywood has to offer, then spending the rest of each semester working remotely through Zoom with WGA mentors who helped guide me through the completion of several scripts. I learned the tough realities of the industry and what it was going to take to break through. Read more>>

Alexey Seliverstov

Over the past year, everything has been incredibly intense. I remixed Glass Animals, performed at the Getty’s Central Garden, and was invited by the LA Phil to create a sound installation for the Noon to Midnight festival. I built a 12-hour interactive soundscape, where anyone could become an artist — making their own sound collages from a collection of 60 cassettes with generative bird songs and field recordings, along with atmospheres recorded on vinyl. It was a really special event, and the biggest presentation of my bird project so far. Read more>>

Brett Pearsons

A fellow improvisor asked if I could write Celt-punk music. I said sure. Then one day he handed me some lyrics and I went home, and panicked. After a bit of sheer terror, I picked up my mandolin and said under my breath “I can do this.” Years later, our band, The Mighty Regis, opened for the Drop Kick Murphy’s in Boston at the House of Blues on March 15th! Read more>>

Bailie Robinson

Hi! My name is Bailie Robinson. I grew up in Oakland, California—aka the Bay Area—and truth be told, I had a pretty great upbringing. My parents worked hard to provide my sisters and me with everything we needed, and most of what we wanted, too. My journey into the film industry began when it came time to choose a college major. It might sound simple, but for me, it wasn’t. I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, so I entered college as “undecided.” After I committed to a school, my mom sat me down with a very long list of possible majors. She read through them one by one—until she got to Film and Production. Read more>>

James Minor

After having over 15 years in sales and customer service, I hit a crossroad in my life and wasn’t sure where I wanted to go next but I know I needed something different, something new. I talked to coworkers and friends about a new direction but still had no idea what to do. I asked God to direct me & that I could do something that was more pleasing in his eye sight. Read more>>

Lisa Checo

I began my career as an intern at KCD in New York City—a global brand experience agency known for its work in fashion public relations and event production. That experience opened the door to working with iconic brands like Saint Laurent and Karla Otto. I thrived in the high-paced fashion world, where 7 a.m. mornings and 10 p.m. nights were the norm. But even though I loved the hustle, I knew I wasn’t meant to stay an assistant forever. I was determined to lead. Read more>>

Anais Barajas

My dad had made it a point to make me aware that I was no longer working on those things that were mine; those special things that made me happy. Instead he said that somewhere along the line I had got lost in the sauce and had made my world about helping others fulfill their dreams while simultaneously neglecting my own. He made me promise that I would do what makes me incandescently happy in life because at that point I had never given him a reason to worry about me, and he didn’t want me to give him a reason to start the moment he would no longer be around to do something about it. After he passed away, I immediately reached out to an acting coach and began to take classes again. Read more>>

Mandy Corrente

I’m a singer, dancer, and actress—and I absolutely love performing! I create fun, energetic music that kids and families can enjoy together. I also make music videos, perform live, and share a lot of my personality on social media. I think what sets me apart is that I truly love every part of what I do—being on stage, recording songs, coming up with video ideas, and just connecting with people through music and dance. Read more>>

Iris Yun

While at MI, I had the privilege of studying with Eric Copeland (Lyn), an accomplished vocalist and former contestant on The Voice (Season 13). His extensive experience—having performed with John Legend, Kanye West’s Sunday Service Choir, Snoh Aalegra, Bazzi, Aloe Blacc, and Cordae, as well as appearing on NPR Tiny Desk and major music festivals—greatly influenced my artistic growth. His mentorship not only refined my vocal technique but also gave me the confidence to embrace my unique sound. The encouragement and insights he provided have been invaluable to my journey as an artist. Read more>>

Richard Deere

For years, I lived with a “life is too short” mentality. I traveled, worked as a bartender, and eventually built a successful career as a personal trainer, training high-profile clients and celebrities. I truly lived my twenties to the fullest. But as I’ve grown, my mindset has shifted. I’m now focused on building something lasting—not just for myself, but for the family I hope to have one day. Read more>>

Tiffany Phillips Maxwell

By the time I was four, I was already glued to music videos, studying how the artists carried themselves with so much confidence and presence. Growing up in the early 2000s was everything—the music, the fashion, even the cartoons and snacks had that distinct edge. I started cheerleading at PYAA in Pennsauken, NJ when I was just four years old. I was technically too young to join, but my passion earned me a spot. By eight, I was enrolled in my first dance class at Dance Sensations in Pennsauken, New Jersey, training in everything from Ballet to Jazz, Modern, Tap, Hip Hop, and African dance. I was always the one organizing dance routines during recess like my life depended on it—choreography has always been my thing. Read more>>

Laura Ellen Wilson

As disappointed as I was, it certainly happened for a reason because then Covid hit and everything was grounded. I spent the entire lockdown networking with various filmmakers and having several contacts already here in the US, I was cast in 3 projects that were set to shoot when the lockdown ended. I made it my mission to obtain the O1 visa and in November 2023, I had my interview at the Embassy in London, UK and was finally approved! I moved to LA in mid-January 2024 and haven’t looked back! Read more>>

Stanislava Ivy

My work as a TV journalist who covers predominantly cinema has been a challenge in order to arrange interviews with high profile actors and directors as the market is so small. However, I managed quite successfully to find my place and to do a lot of interviews with a lot of work and dedication. For example, two years ago I had to travel from LA to San Francisco to do an interview with the amazing writer Isabel Allende and after a lot of car trouble and an inappropriate AirBnb, I still managed and did not give up on the idea  Read more>>

Rachel Michaela

The road has been anything but smooth. It’s been messy, heartbreaking, and, at times, utterly disorienting. I came into acting and comedy later than most, carrying a fire inside of me that was sparked after hitting rock bottom in every area of my life. Everything fell apart at the same time and I didn’t have anything left to lose. And then I found acting. And then I found improv. And then I didn’t want to waste any more time now that I found the thing I was born to do. I’ve been training, performing, teaching, directing, building communities for years—and trying to survive personal grief and professional heartbreak behind the scenes. It’s all led me to something bigger than myself: a way to inspire real change in individuals and communities that will last a lifetime. And that makes it all worth it in the end. Even the hard stuff. Read more>>

Jevon Tompkins

The road definitely hasn’t been smooth. I’ve faced everything from financial setbacks to mental health battles while chasing my purpose. One of the biggest challenges I continue to fight is my health—I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and it’s been a constant journey of discipline, healing, and faith. Managing a chronic illness while building a brand, working full-time, and going to school isn’t easy, especially when you don’t always have a strong support system behind you. Read more>>

Jazzie Bella

But my talent is overlooked and ignored consistently and constantly… because the ones writing the checks are unfortunately, I would say in at least the 84% of the jobs I’m up for… the ones that will write my check, are men. And it’s exorbitantly difficult when I walk in the room for a meeting with a potential job, and have anyone in that meeting hear me,, and not just look at me. But I am a girly girl and think it’s “giving in” if I shave my head- wear potato sacks and gain as much weight as my body could handle so that I “get the job”. No. Which is why Europe, specifically Paris is where I have been and am happiest, and am looking forward to reaching out to and set up meetings with some agencies there. Read more>>

Bryce Christopher Tipple

I made some really great friends/contacts that could point me in the right direction and just stayed very open to new opportunities and pushing myself out of my comfort zone to keep momentum going. Started off with some short films and classes fast forward a little while and next thing you know I’ve built a great team and have done national commercials, films and started traveling the world. I’ve grown so much as a person and artist on this journey and wouldn’t change it for the world as my struggles AND triumphs have shaped me into the man I am today. So grateful in every way. Read more>>

G. Scott Gehrs

While I wouldn’t say the road has been smooth, it has been an interesting journey to say the least. Juggling a family and a day job along the way is always a struggle, but my family has always been super supportive and interested in my writing. Some of the struggles have centered around just dumb luck, for example I had a deal offer on the table a while back for one of my tv pilots and my first agent passed away. Other things have just been bad timing: I was working on a deal and the union struck, so I put my pen down. Covid, studio budgets, you name it. Not to mention project delays, and all the normal day-to-day ins and outs of any business. But, it’s always been interesting and fun to go to work everyday. Read more>>

Robin Nyström

Filmmaking can be unbelievably hard sometimes, and it’s never a solo act. Every element needs to be in sync. If a single piece falls out of place, the whole thing can easily unravel. But I keep going because of the people I work with. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to build lasting relationships with a group of passionate collaborators. Some of us have been working together for more than a decade. Without them, there’s no way I’d be the filmmaker I am today. Read more>>

Juliette Irons

Soon after, that first single that I released with 9 theory got placed in a commercial for Transition Lenses and has allowed me to support myself to become a full time musician!! At the time I was making emotional songwriter music and experimenting with different genres, but fast forward to now, I feel like I have finally found my sound. I’m working with a brilliant Producer Jake Magness, making the Pop-Punk type music that I grew up on and inspired me in the first place!! Read more>>

David Nguyen

When we got back to Los Angeles, I realized something surprising: the same gap existed here too. I couldn’t stop thinking about it. I’ve always dreamed of starting my own business, and I’ve always believed in the quiet magic of cookies—the way they make people smile, soften tough days, and turn strangers into friends. So I left my computer screen behind, rolled up my sleeves, and got to work. What began as a pandemic pastime has turned into something far bigger—and a whole lot sweeter. Read more>>

Nunzio Fazio And Bogdan Szumilas

Life has presented its Challenges. Gina died in 2011, just as I thought my singing career was going to take off. So I went on a quest to find a new vocal coach (all singers have them including Pavarotti). In my quest to find a new coach, I found many bad ones. I came down with MTD (Muscle Tension Dysphonia) from studying with one coach. So I continued my quest to find a great coach and believe I have done so. You have to understand, when You’ve had the best vocal coach in the world, it becomes very hard to find someone of that caliper again. (Gina had coached Steve Perry, Gloria Estefan, Jon Sekada and Shakira. ) Read more>>

Tabitha Lawhorn

I’m the founder and CEO of Tabz Cosmetics, a brand that’s all about boldness, confidence, and authenticity. I specialize in creating high-quality, vegan lip products….from hydrating scrubs to vibrant glitter glam glosses…that help people feel powerful and seen. I’m known for my signature Glitter Mouf Gang movement and for making waves in multiple states (and even internationally). Read more>>

Ines Belayouni

In 2018, I made the pivotal decision to move to Los Angeles to fully dedicate myself to a career in music. The transition wasn’t easy, but it allowed me to immerse myself in the industry, collaborate with diverse talents, and continue the journey of finding my voice as an artist. I sing in five languages; English, French, Arabic, Spanish, and Italian, which has become a key part of my identity and allows me to connect with a wide range of audiences. Read more>>

Adrian Avila

After working on a few films in that department I realized that my heart belonged working on set so I jumped on production crew. Since then I’ve worked on countless features, commercials and music videos from various companies. I started out as a Production Assistant and got a chance to earn credit in many other departments; set dresser, transportation, B-Unit camera, actor, etc. Then in 2023 I got the opportunity to direct my first feature and ever since that moment, my career as a Director/Writer is finally taking off. Read more>>

McKay Johnson

I was raised in a musical family and began singing and performing in musical theatre and plays at a young age. I began teaching myself the guitar at the age of 10 – I am the youngest of 4 children and wanted to be like my dad and older brothers who all play guitar. However, it wasn’t until the age of 12 that I discovered what would become my biggest passion for many years: drums. My oldest brother got the new video game Rock Band for us younger siblings as a christmas present, and as soon as I started playing drums on it I felt something I’d never felt before. I began persistently pestering my parents for real drums and for my 13th birthday was delighted to receive a cheap drum set and lessons with a local teacher. Read more>>

Evelyn Camilo

We wanted to build a space that felt like home, not just for us, but for others who know that feeling too. And also for our kids, who are growing up in LA, far from that tight knit NYC Dominican community we came from. It was important to us to create a place where they could experience the culture and flavors that shaped us, even if they’re thousands of miles away from it. And Bodega Delights blends NYC energy with LA creativity, Dominican flavor with local freshness. It’s our way of bridging two homes and building something that feels authentic.  Read more>>

Keisha Robinson

Aside from writing, I also enjoy rapping. I released an EP titled “Coming.” Surprisingly, My music has reached fans worldwide. Specifically my singles, “Coming” “U Already Know” and “4:20.” The music started making a buzz, and that’s when my life took a turn. I had a back injury and was told I would need spine surgery. That slowed me down a lot. I went to various therapists, and decided to write the book, “How To: Overcome Your Fear of Being Successful.” Read more>>

Jimena Bustamante

After graduation, I knew I wanted to pursue dance professionally, especially outside of Mexico, but I didn’t have a clear path. I auditioned for the CLI Conservatory in Massachusetts — a program I admired deeply, especially because one of my favorite Mexican dancers had trained there. I got accepted and even had a conversation with him and my parents about the program, but unfortunately, my dad decided he wouldn’t support it financially until I completed a “real degree.” At the time, I couldn’t afford it on my own, so I had to pivot and find another way. Read more>>

Atharva Dhekne

Coming from an entirely different country of course is a struggle — trying to just establish your life and make a name for yourself. I didn’t know anyone in the US, let alone someone in the music industry. Climbing the institutionalized hierarchy trying to work in music, everyone holds on to their positions for as long as they possibly can, because they themselves struggled to obtain them in the first place. So taking all of this into account, you have to prove your worth to as many people as you can and something will come your way. Read more>>

Lucinda Curtis

I moved from Australia to LA a few years ago to chase music properly, and let’s just say… it wasn’t all sunshine and success right away. I definitely ran into the wrong people at first, people who talked big but didn’t deliver, and I had to learn a lot the hard way. But those experiences made me tougher, and they honestly helped me figure out who I am, what I want to say, and the kind of artist I wanna be. Read more>>

Aniuta Aslanian

But even in the darkest moments, my natural openness and ability to connect with people helped me find light. I was lucky to meet incredible souls who encouraged me, believed in me, and reminded me of my purpose. Their support gave me strength to keep going, and I learned that even the hardest paths can lead to something beautiful — if you keep walking with your heart open. Read more>>

R-LEN

I didn’t come up like most people, I wasn’t born into this, had to figure it out as I went. Grew up overseas, came to the U.S. not speaking English, made a lot of mistakes, and turned pain into fuel. I lost people close to me, been through the kind of things that either break you or build you, and I chose to build. Read more>>