Meet Hanna Avlas | Actress, Traveler, Dancer, Yoga Enthusiast, Snowboarder

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

Hi Hanna, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From as far back as I can remember, I’ve always felt like the heroine of a movie — or rather, of many movies: comedies, romances, adventures, thrillers, and more. It’s not a mask or a performance, but an authentic feeling, one I’ve come to understand and embrace with age (though as a child, I didn’t fully grasp it).
This innate sense of storytelling naturally drew me to the stage. I had an insatiable desire to express myself and leave an imprint on people’s memories. That’s how, at the age of 10, I started dancing — a passion that consumed me for years. I performed at competitions and events, explored countless styles, taught dance at university, and even signed a contract to dance with a show group in China.
But as fulfilling as dance was, something still felt missing. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it until, after returning from China, I was offered a full-time acting contract with one of the largest media companies in the world. Based in Cyprus, the company created content for American teenagers.
The moment I stepped in front of the camera on a professional set, I felt an incredible sense of satisfaction that I’d never experienced in dance. My creativity finally had a tangible outcome — a visual, lasting product that was preserved and shared with the world. It was like leaving a ‘mark in history’, being truly seen, not just fleetingly watched during a performance. That realization inspired me to pursue acting wholeheartedly.
And then, as if the universe wanted to nudge me further, I won the Green Card lottery while working at TheSoul Publishing media. On top of that, my best friend from Belarus had already been living in Los Angeles for 10 years — a perfect foundation for such a big move. And we all know that LA is the place to be if you have acting ambitions.
Winning the Green Card felt like a sign, and I made a promise to myself: “No matter how tough the transition or the challenges of adapting to life in LA, I’ll persevere and focus on climbing the steps of the acting career ladder.”
Has it been hard? Absolutely. Nerve-wracking and exciting at the same time? Without a doubt. But do I feel like I’m on the right path, chasing what I truly want? Oh, yes!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I grew up in Belarus, where my love for storytelling and performing took root, but my adventurous spirit soon led me across borders, continents, and experiences that have deeply shaped me both personally and professionally.
What sets me apart is the diversity of my experiences. I’ve lived in seven countries, visited over 40, and performed as a dancer and actress across Europe, Middle East, Asia, and now the U.S. This global perspective has become the cornerstone of my creative identity, allowing me to bring unique authenticity to my craft. Whether it’s a dramatic role or a lighthearted improv sketch, I draw from the rich tapestry of my travels and interactions with people from all walks of life.
Moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting was the biggest challenge of my life. Starting over in this country meant leaving behind a life of comfort and success in Cyprus, where I had a fulfilling career and a strong sense of self. In the US, I had to rebuild everything from scratch — learning the system, finding stability, and proving my worth in an industry known for its challenges. I worked countless long days juggling multiple jobs, all while dedicating myself to acting classes and auditions.
The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that growth often comes from discomfort. Stepping out of my comfort zone has tested me in unimaginable ways, but it has also made me more resilient and determined. I’ve always known how to find joy in the small victories — it’s one of the most precious traits of my character. But in this city, I’ve started to feel and appreciate those moments on an even deeper level, becoming truly conscious of their impact.

And here’s a couple of other lessons I’ve learned along the way:
1. Don’t rush life. Truly give yourself time. While things may work differently in other parts of the world, the reality in the US is that success often flows at its own pace. Patience isn’t just a virtue here — it’s a survival skill.
2. Study. Whatever you’re striving for, dive into it headfirst. Study that field, practice, and experiment with approaches fearlessly. I believe growth comes from being curious, disciplined, and open to new approaches.
3. Authenticity is magnetic. I’ve come to realize that my authenticity is my greatest strength. It’s always been this way, but it wasn’t until about a year ago in LA that I truly started to embrace it consciously. When you own who you are, the people and opportunities naturally gravitate toward you.

What I want the world to know about my story is this: I’m not just a dancer and an actress; I’m a storyteller, a traveler, and a believer in the beauty of transformation and the power of the Universe. My goal is to bring authenticity and depth to every role I play.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my friends were visiting from abroad (as most of my friends do), I’d want to show them more than just the surface of LA — I’d aim to give them a true taste of American culture through everything this city has to offer. One of my musts would be taking them to a comedy show, whether it’s stand-up or improv, at places like Upright Citizens Brigade theatre in Hollywood or Westside Comedy in Santa Monica. To me, comedy shows are a “business card” of LA’s unique entertainment scene, something both hilarious and authentic.
For a glimpse of what we international folks often imagine as the “American party” (thanks to all those movies we grew up on), we’d head to a lively spot like ‘The Victorian’ or ‘The Bungalow’ in Santa Monica. And to balance the buzz, I’d suggest more relaxing but equally inspiring activities, like visiting LACMA or The Getty Center for art and architecture, or catching an outdoor movie at Rooftop Cinema Club, Street Food Cinema, or even Heritage Square Museum if it’s Christmastime.
Of course, we’d explore LA’s iconic spots — Venice Beach promenade and Venice Canals, Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and maybe a day in Downtown for a local festival like LA Beerfest, if the timing is right, after which we’d head straight to ‘Maccheroni Republic’ for an Italian-style dinner to end the day on a delicious note. For a different flavor, we’d dive into Koreatown for spicy Korean BBQ or venture into the hills for a quiet meal at ‘Cafe on 27’ in Topanga Canyon. If we happened to be around Los Feliz, I’d make sure to take them to ‘Home Restaurant’, a cozy and welcoming spot with great bar and cuisine.
For nature lovers, I’d take them hiking — most probably in Hollywood Hills and to Santa Ynez Canyon Waterfall in Topanga State Park. If it’s winter, we’d trade the trails for snowboarding in Big Bear Mountains. And for a dose of coastal charm, while Malibu has its allure, I’d take them to Laguna Beach instead. It’s unbeatable, with its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and charming streets to wander through after soaking up the sun.
Even so, if they insisted on Malibu, I’d make sure they saw El Matador Beach (despite its touristy vibe) and unwind at Zuma Beach before dinner at ‘The Malibu Farm Restaurant’ on the pier.
We might dedicate a day to Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood for that larger-than-life theme park fun, whether it’s reliving childhood nostalgia or diving into the cinematic worlds of their favorite movies.
Food and drinks would be central to the LA experience. Classic American breakfasts at ‘Pann’s’ or ‘Mel’s Diner’, European-style brunch at ‘Urth Caffé’, or cozy dinner with amazing cocktails at ‘The Galley’ on Main Street in Santa Monica or at ‘The Misfit’ would set the mood perfectly. For something a little more special, we’d experience wine tasting at ‘Malibu Wines & Beer Garden’. Maybe we’d enjoy beer and darts at ‘Ye Olde King’s Head’. And if they’re up for a casual daytime party, ‘The Waterfront’ on Venice Beach would be the spot.
Every stop, every meal, every laugh would showcase the city’s diverse personality.

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 am deeply grateful to my best friend, Alena — who, by the way, is the founder of the successful and authentic guided journal brand Kunitsa Co. (https://kunitsa.co) in Los Angeles — for being my first host in the US and helping me transition to life in America. Her support during such a monumental change in my life was invaluable.
I’m also endlessly thankful for my close circle of friends — they are truly the most amazing people. Living in LA has introduced me to so many talented individuals who inspire and support me, making my social life here vibrant and exciting.
I owe special gratitude to my husband for standing by my side as we navigate the countless adventures life throws our way.
Another major shoutout goes to the team at The Escape Revolution (https://theescaperevolution.com) on Melrose Avenue, where I worked as a game master in escape rooms during my first challenging year in the US. That team became a sanctuary for me, especially Jovana Manojlović, the owner of The Escape Revolution and wellness coach. (https://www.instagram.com/yourhealthandwellnessgirl/) Jovana is not only an incredible boss, but someone with whom I formed a deep personal connection, she is one of the most wise and wonderful women I’ve ever met. Her incredible energy and personal coaching helped me grow mentally into a better version of myself. I feel so lucky that LA brought her into my life.
I’ve also attended many different acting classes in Los Angeles, but I want to highlight the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. During that first difficult year, their improv classes became my weekly moments of joy and lightness amidst a sea of stress, worries, and challenges. Those classes were like little islands where I could dock and laugh to my heart’s content.
Above all, I am endlessly grateful to my family — my parents and sister, who are back in Belarus — for their unwavering support throughout my adventurous life. My parents have always worried about me, as my lifestyle has been, let’s say, a bit “nomadic.” Yet, they never clipped my wings; instead, they encouraged me to spread them even wider and fly further. Their constant support is my greatest treasure, and I carry it with me in everything I do.

Website: https://annaavlas.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/_avlas_