Meet Kyna Lee

We were lucky to catch up with Kyna Lee recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kyna , looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?

Work ethic has always been part of my DNA.
My Dad was my first role model—he ran his own business and set a powerful example of dedication and drive from an early age.
I wasn’t the straight-A student in school. I was creative, expressive, and often distracted by ideas that lit me up more than textbooks ever could.
Over the years, I’ve built and run my own ventures—from launching a bikini line to growing a successful spray tanning business, and now fully immersing myself in acting. Each chapter has demanded discipline, long hours, and self-motivation—qualities I’ve come to value deeply.

I’m the kind of person who would work seven days a week if I could. But I’m learning the importance of balance—carving out time to rest and recharge so I can show up fully for opportunities.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m a full-time actor and storyteller, originally from Australia and now based in Los Angeles. My path hasn’t been linear—I started pursuing acting just before the pandemic, dipped in and out over the years, and now find myself more committed than ever because deep down I knew at an early age thats what I wanted to do, and its taken my whole life to actually set aside everything else to finally do it and let my inner child take the stage.

You may have seen me recently in a recurring role on Jimmy Kimmel Live, playing Melania Trump.
I’m also currently reading for two film projects—one shooting in the Utah mountains, the other set in the deserts outside L.A.

What I love most about acting is discovering a character through their physicality—especially costume. I have a section in my closet dedicated solely to character wardrobe staples. One of my most-used tools? A $7 clip-on nose ring from Amazon. It instantly shifts my energy into someone else’s world.

Beyond acting, I’ve also launched my own production company, Empress Productions, and I’m incredibly excited about our debut film currently in development. It’s a grounded, original concept that blends romantic comedy, dramedy, and action—something a little out-of-the-box, fresh, and fun.
Every night during my creative downloads more pieces of the story seem to fall into place.
Creating my own work has become a creative lifeline and outlet—writing gives me a sense of control and fulfillment that I never expected.

When I’m not on set, I model to support myself—and I love the doors it opens. It’s taken me to stunning locations last month like Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Austin, Texas. Next week, I’m headed to Petaluma and Knoxville, Tennessee for work. I’ve come to appreciate how uniquely diverse each U.S. state is—it’s a contrast to Australia’s five fairly similar states.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Looking back, the three most impactful elements in my journey have been working on my craft, working on myself, and shifting my mindset.

I’ve trained extensively—at studios all over Los Angeles and even over Zoom with coaches in Australia—but the real transformation happened when I started working on the inner stuff. Acting is such a personal art form, and I realized early on that mindset and self-belief are just as important as any technical skill.

Unblocking limiting beliefs has been a game changer. So often, we’re the ones unconsciously holding ourselves back. Learning to recognize those patterns and rewrite them has opened up more doors than any audition ever could.

One piece of advice I’d give to anyone just starting out is: don’t underestimate the power of mindset work. Acting class is essential, but so is journaling, therapy, or anything that helps you become more self-aware and resilient.

Lately, I’ve been really inspired by Margot Robbie—not just her talent, but the way she’s carved out her space in the industry as both an actress and producer. On the tough days, I literally ask myself, “What would Margot do?” That question gives me the extra push to show up and keep going.

How would you describe your ideal client?

I have a dream list of producers, directors, and fellow actors I’d love to collaborate with—and I believe it’s only a matter of time.

My ultimate dream project would be one that’s not only beautifully written but also allows room for improv and exploration during filming. I love the idea of getting the lines down perfectly, nailing that take—and then having the freedom to play. To discover new layers in the moment, in real time, alongside a cast and crew who are equally open and creatively curious. That kind of environment would be a dream come true.

Of course, it has to be the right project—with the budget, time, and space to allow for that kind of process. But who knows? Maybe that dream will come to life through my own film. I’m excited to find out.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kyna__lee

Image Credits

Bram Jay