Meet Ariana Azoulai

We recently connected with Ariana Azoulai and have shared our conversation below.

Ariana, thank you so much for making time for us. We’ve always admired your ability to take risks and so maybe we can kick things off with a discussion around how you developed your ability to take and bear risk?

It’s honestly strange for me to say this now, but I LOVE taking risks. Going to a concert alone, embarking on solo travel, and even considering skydiving – it’s a complete turnaround from my childhood. Back then, I used to seek solace in silence, frequently retreating behind my mother or books. While I still cherish silence and the company of my books, I now enjoy experiencing them in new and unfamiliar places.

The first hints of breaking out of my shell appeared around middle school when I decided to enroll in acting classes. I had seen my friends perform in theater and wanted SO badly to do the same. However, actually finding the right acting class turned out to be incredibly nerve-wracking. I can still vividly recall the fear I felt each time I stepped into a new class or had to participate in exercises.

As time passed, though, I found a place that offered more than just acting lessons; it turned out to be a place that encouraged emotional vulnerability and risk-taking—something I had never willingly ventured into before.

I truly believe that acting classes were the catalyst for helping me grow into myself. If you’re blessed with a good teacher and class, you’re able to put yourself out there and know that everyone else is in the same boat. I still have many moments of fear, but now I know how to push past it.

 

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

Currently, I’m an actor, musician, and animal rights activist!

My journey in acting has spanned over a decade, during which I’ve honed my skills and recently had the incredible opportunity to be a part of a Scooby-Doo fan film. It was directed by the fabulous Kyle Klubal where he offers a fresh take on the much-loved franchise. Keep an eye out for this groovy project titled “Whisper If You Dare Scooby-Doo,” set to be released on October 14th!

As for my music, it’s deeply rooted in my upbringing. Both my parents and my brother are musicians, and we have other musical talents sprinkled throughout our lineage.

(I’d also like to attribute part of my love to my fake father, Jack Black, and School of Rock).

Singing has been a lifelong passion, but one I hadn’t taken seriously until recently. I’m excited to share that I’ve started writing my own songs and accompanying myself on the ukulele. You can catch glimpses of my musical journey on TikTok (@ariazou123), where I’m gradually releasing snippets.

Regarding what I consider literal angels on earth, animals have felt like part of my “purpose” since I was little. I’ve been a part of the animal rights community for about 8+ years, advocating for the complete liberation of all animals. While not everyone loves them, PETA was the first organization that got me to look into where our food, clothing, and products come from. Ever since then, I’ve come to believe that animals are here with us, not for us. In the year 2023, if we have the ability to choose compassion, then why wouldn’t we?

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Listen: Every individual has their own unique story and life experiences, each as intricate as yours. While the events in their lives may differ, they hold the same significance for them as your own experiences do for you. Listening and learning from others have been what has changed my path multiple times. People have been the ones who offered words of encouragement, advice, and stories of their own journeys. When you can, truly listen, because conversations are sometimes where the most learning takes place.

Gratitude is the Attitude: A pivotal shift occurred when I transitioned from viewing events as happening “to me” to recognizing they happen “for me.” My grandmother once told me to always look for the lesson in things: what can I learn from this? Now, of course different levels of pain necessitate varying degrees of healing. Everyone’s circumstances are unique, and sometimes, gratitude alone doesn’t suffice. However, finding these kernels of blessings has often grounded me, especially while living in a place like Los Angeles.

Be Authentic & Stay Authentic: For those on your journey, it’s vital to prioritize passion over superficialities. Balance is easier said than done, but staying true to your “why” can prevent you from losing yourself. Being authentic and true to yourself is what sets you apart and can also inspire others–own it!

 

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Woo! I’m always looking for new people to collaborate with.

For acting inquiries, you can fill out the form on my website: https://www.arianaazoulai.com/contact

For music, you can find my work and reach out either on TikTok (@ariazou123), or through my website above.

Let’s make some magic!🙂

Contact Info:

Image Credits
David Chan

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Highlighter Series
Are you walking a path—or wandering?

The answer to whether you are walking or wandering often changes from season to season

Highlighter Series
What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?

With so many high-achievers in our community it was super interesting to learn about the

Highlighter Series
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?

We asked some of the wisest people we know what they would tell their younger