Check Out Yan Luo’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yan Luo.

Hi Yan, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Actress / Film Producer / Script Writer / Entrepreneur / VC Investor

Yan Luo is an entrepreneur, producer, actress, and investor who began her career as one of only 20 students selected from 5,400 applicants to attend the prestigious Shanghai Drama Institute in the late 80’s.

Her early success in the Chinese film industry earned her Best Lead and Supporting Actress nominations for her performances in “Girl Student Dorm” and “Girl in Red.”

After earning her MFA from Boston University, where she was later recognized with a Distinguished Alumni Award, Yan has maintained her connection to academia as a current member of the Advisory board of BU’s College of Fine Arts.

As founder and CEO of Swallow Bird Entertainment, Yan develops and produces film, television, and mobile series for both Chinese and U.S. markets, including the Universal Studios release “Pavilion of Women.” She is currently in production of a live-action feature, “Rockets Red Glare,” based on Iris Chang’s book and a teen anime, “Aura.”

Since 2022, Yan has expanded into venture capital, joining VC funds including Pasadena Angels, Comm Alumni Ventures, Amino Capital, and Startup Capital … She actively invests in 20 diverse companies in AI, biotech, medical devices, and game fields, leveraging her expertise to identify and nurture innovative companies.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I came to the US without speaking a full sentence of English, and I only had $60 in my pocket. I worked as a waitress, cleaning lady, security etc… during my graduate school years. It was after I was nominated as best lead and best supporting actress in China.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I write a script and turn it into a film. I also act if there is the right character for me. My specialty is cross-cultural stories and subjects, and I am proud of the knowledge and life experience that makes me unique and different from general Hollywood content creators.

How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I found partners and employees. To work with me is a challenge because I have experience and knowledge from China from the same field.