We were lucky to catch up with Lauryn Savela recently and have shared our conversation below.
Lauryn, 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?
I grew up as a competitive athlete. I played many sports including softball, soccer, volleyball, and track and field. At 14 I qualified to my first national competition for the Javelin throw, and for the next few years I would train at a very high level. I trained 4-5 days a week with competitions on the weekend. This training really proved to me the power of dedication and hard work. Every season I set a new personal best, and at my fourth nationals I placed 3rd in the country.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am an actress that moved from Vancouver to New York in 2021 to study at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA). In 2023 I graduated from their 2 year conservatory program and was selected for their advanced training company; from which I completed earlier this year. Some of my favourite roles I have been fortunate enough to portray recently are ‘Viola’ in Twelfth Night and originating the role of ‘Magpie’ in the new play Hearts Like Planets by Adam Szymkowics. In June of 2024 I was so fortune to produce and act in the new play ¡Someone ExtraordinariX! by Poli Olavarria. I played ‘Maggie’ and American singer-songwriter. The show had a sold out 3 day off-off broadway run and was very warmly received. I have also participated in some short films this year including ‘Keep In Touch’ directed by Maggie Collette and “Flighty” directed by Giovanni Starricco. Along with acting I have also focused recently on writing music and hope to put out some songs in the coming months.
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?
To have kindness and grace for myself. This something that I have to work at daily, as do most. Really defining the difference of self criticism and and reflection has been imperative for setting myself up to work sustainably in this industry.
That practice can look different everyday, and just a little bit is always better than nothing at all. It feels good to show up for yourself.
‘To thine own self be true’; It’s hard to put your authentic and true self forward, but it’s always worth it.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
The ability to embrace change. As time goes on I find myself becoming a more spiritual person and really believing that what is meant for me will come. In the past I was terrified if I embraced this concept that I would stop working hard or I wouldn’t be motivated to go after things. However, I am learning that I can’t motivate myself based on a fear of failure or the future. If I embrace that things are mostly out of my control, then I have a kind space to work on the things I can control. Again this is something I am having to work on daily, but I definitely feel the improvement.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laurynsavela.com
- Instagram: lauryn_savela
Image Credits
Bronwen Sharp
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