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

Hi Crystal, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I‘m always wondering why I always pursue art for my whole life? Recall the memory that this seed should have been planted when I was very young. Learning dancing, painting, and piano from an early age has made my artistic perception especially developed. After entering university, I studied acting. I love the feeling of being able to play different roles in different stories. To experience the pain and happiness of the characters. It’s like a fish swimming in different oceans. In the world of characters, create with your full of passion. Be a special person, because you are unique!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m an actress and casting director. Be on set or doing pre-production work is my favorite thing in my career. These two positions are growing up with a film or any project. When we finish this project, it likes a mother seeing her child grow up. You will feel relieved and satisfied. But sometimes the journey is not smooth. I remember that in 2018, I became anxious and depressed because of some things. Every day at home in a mood of self-denial. I think I can’t do anything well, and I’m not good enough. Honestly, that was a very bad year. Later, I tried to get myself out of the room and travel to relax. Gradually, I understood someone else can not define I am good or not. The first thing I have to learn is to love and believe in myself. Only by admitting that we are excellent and good enough, then we can conquer any trouble in our life. No matter what industry you are in, we must learn to love ourselves.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I really appreciate my parent’s support. I came to the United States from China in 2015 to chase my dream. They give me 100% support. You know, many parents don’t want their children to be far away from home. But they did not. My mother always said: “The world is so wide, you should go out there and see more things you can. Be yourself, we will always be your strong backup force!”. So go, chase your dream. Be Brave!

Website: wanyaozhang.com
Instagram: crystal_zlife

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.