Meet Preeti Dhanda | Actress

We had the good fortune of connecting with Preeti Dhanda and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Preeti, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I’m an actor, but life isn’t just about film. It’s about experiences too. The words on a script page are stories of lives already lived, and I think it’s important to live your own story as well.
My view of work-life balance has changed over time. Earlier in my career, I was focused almost entirely on work and achieving the next goal. But I’ve come to realize that the experiences outside of work are just as important.
Today, balance means making time for travel, family, fitness, health, and a sense of adventure. I love trying new things, meeting different people, and stepping outside of my comfort zone.
I also think those experiences make you better at your work. When you’ve travelled more, experienced different cultures, faced challenges, and simply lived more, your work becomes more seasoned. You have a deeper understanding of people and the world, and that naturally shows up in your performances.
As actors, we draw from life. The more life we live, the more authenticity, perspective, and depth we can bring to the stories we tell.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve loved storytelling for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I was the kid who lived in books. I was a bit of a nerd, always reading, getting straight A’s, and spending my free time doing theatre instead of playing sports. The stage became my place to explore, create, and step into different worlds.

Although I loved performing, I never initially saw acting as a career. I discovered that possibility unexpectedly while working as a background performer on a film set. I was simply trying to make some extra money for school, but being on set opened my eyes to the world of film and made me realize that acting could be something I could genuinely pursue.

At the time, I was studying political science and international affairs and thought I would become a human rights lawyer. But I kept coming back to storytelling and the impact that stories can have. Acting gave me the opportunity to explore different perspectives, connect with people, and bring stories to life in a way that felt meaningful.

What sets me apart as an artist is that I draw from my curiosity about people and the world around me. I believe the best performances come from actually living. Travelling, meeting new people, embracing new experiences, and stepping outside of my comfort zone have all shaped me as an actor. The more life I experience, the more depth I can bring to the characters I play.

The journey hasn’t always been easy. Like most actors, I’ve faced rejection, uncertainty, and moments of doubt. But those challenges have taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of continuing to grow. I’ve learned that there is no perfect timeline or single path to success.

What I want people to know about me is that acting is more than a career; it’s a way of understanding people and the world. I’m passionate about living fully, staying curious, and continuing to tell stories that create connection and empathy.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting Toronto for a week, I’d want them to experience the city the way I love it: through food, culture, neighbourhoods, nature, and the people.

I’d start with the food because Toronto’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths. It’s truly a melting pot, and you can experience almost any culture through its restaurants and neighbourhoods. I’d take them around the city to explore places like Little Portugal, Little Italy, Koreatown, Chinatown, and Kensington Market, because each area has its own personality, history, and energy.

I’d want them to experience the creative side of Toronto too. I’d take them to see some independent theatre, catch a comedy show, explore the Distillery District for art and drinks, and spend an afternoon wandering through the Annex, browsing bookstores and cafés. Toronto has such a great arts scene, and some of the best experiences come from smaller venues and local spots.

I’d definitely make time for the outdoors. One of my favourite things about Toronto is the waterfront. A morning coffee walk along the lake, cycling the waterfront trails, or exploring the city’s parks is such a great way to enjoy the city. It’s rare to have a big city where you can feel connected to nature so easily.

Of course, I’d take them to experience Toronto’s sports culture too. Depending on the season, catching a baseball, hockey, or basketball game is such a fun part of the city’s identity.

And I couldn’t let them leave without a trip to Niagara Falls and exploring some of the wineries nearby. It’s an easy escape from the city and a beautiful experience.

What makes Toronto special to me is that it’s a city built on diversity. You can eat food from around the world, meet people from every background, explore different neighbourhoods, see incredible art, and still find places to slow down and enjoy nature. There is always something new to discover, which is what makes it such a special place to call home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to give a shoutout to my friends, family, my inner circle, my close actor colleagues, EVN acting studios, and all the incredible souls I’ve met through travelling.
My friends are really the people who ground me. They’re the ones who encourage me, support me through challenges, celebrate the wins, and remind me who I am outside of my career. Having that kind of community is priceless, especially in an industry that can be unpredictable.
I’d also give a shoutout to my fellow actors and creative collaborators. There’s something special about being surrounded by people who understand the journey, the sacrifices, and the passion that drives you. We learn from one another and help each other grow.
And finally, to all the people I’ve met while travelling. Some of the most meaningful lessons and connections have come from stepping into new places, cultures, and conversations. Every person you meet offers a different perspective on life, and those experiences have shaped me both as an artist and as a human being.
I truly believe we’re a reflection of the people we surround ourselves with, and I’m grateful for every person who has been part of my journey.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/preetiidhanda/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/preetidhanda/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialjasdhanda/

Image Credits
the yellow dress and white skirt pictures are by: Aureus Media Lab – https://www.aureusmedialab.com

and the brown pants tang top are by Randy Singh