Meet Kaylin Lavena | Producer, Creative Director, Actress

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

Hi Kaylin Lavena, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Taking risks is equivalent to being very strong willed. “Risk” just sounds scarier because of the way society has translated that definition. Taking risks are usually either celebrated or criticized. But when I look back on my journey, that little girl growing up in Detroit had no reason to believe that she could live the life that I am currently living. Even when others would laugh when I shared my goals of being an actress and director living in LA. However, I dreamt this life that I currently live, and continue to dream. Having an optimistic imagination was my biggest quality. I took many leaps, jumps, ducks, and dodges to make it to Los Angeles. Including, moving to NYC at 19-years old, by myself.

In my eyes, it was a chance to finally make my dreams become my reality. Had I not moved to NYC, I would’ve never gotten the years of training and experience I needed. I would’ve never met my partner, who took that leap with me to LA. I would never be able to say I went from being a Production Assistant to one of the few Black Female Assistant Directors out here.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art usually comes through in the form of a story, visual, or simple message. My inspiration stems from the deepest lessons I’ve learned about life as a black woman, along with other human life lessons too. From childhood, family trauma, love, marriage, and grief. As a young woman in my 20s, navigating through LA is not to be downplayed. Coming to a place where you know a couple connections, yet still building from scratch… It’s not a day at the park– relationships take time, connection, creativity, sponaeity, and true dedication.

Attending The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts established a solid foundation for me. I was ready to discover all the things I was never taught and could never afford to learn. Once I began learning those things… my view on storytelling changed forever. I had no clue about the elements that went into producing, but I quickly realized I wanted to be involved in any way possible. Post graduating college, I did theater acting, while working in retail– but one day I had an epiphany moment and knew I could no longer settle for being a full-time sales associate and part-time actor/filmmaker…IF I had the time. I needed a job in MY field and I worked tirelessly trying to find just one “YES”. One day I met this girl on the street, and thought her outfit was super dope! I felt on my heart from God I needed to compliment her that day and when I did, it opened a door to us sharing our common interest of filmmaking. She shared that she was a Production Assistant and I asked her how I could get involved. We exchanged contact information, and that same night, she called me to see If I could cover her on set the next day. I haven’t worked in retail since that day.

But if I’m being completely honest, that’s when the real challenges started. Many times I’ve faced challenges simply because of the way that I look. During those moments, I wanted to quit… but it was the legacy that kept me going. My art is rooted from the legacy of those who came before me and of those who will come after.

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.
Okkk well, I’m highly encouraging them to wait till the Spring/Summer!!! People think LA is warm in the Winter, and I’m here to say that I’m still cold. But boom, day one we grab morning açaí bowl from Roots & Rye, which does unlimited toppings!!! Then we go to Echo Park for a lunch picnic and pedal some swans. From there, we take a cat nap and grab Korean BBQ for dinner! The next morning, I’m ready for a beach hike with a stunning view. We can hit up the beach after the hike, and get a refreshing swim in and don’t forget to bring a boogie board. I be getting baptized in those waves. Honestly, you will find me at the beach 80% of the summer. Something about the ocean pulls my spirit closer to earth. I just feel so at peace when I’m at the beach. Anywho, we also check out The Getty/Villa and other places that have beautiful scenery. For me, I’m choosing a chill sip and paint over going to a bar/club…unless its a very special occasion. My very close friends who I enjoy spending time with would agree. When choosing Restaurants/Bars to go… there’s three categories that need to be checked off. Friendly vibes, good food/drink menu, good music and an environment that embraces my culture.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I want to pay my respects to the Ghetto Film School Roster and the Group Effort Initiative for their incredible platforms committed to bridging the gap between underrepresented communities and mainstream entertainment. Thanks to both of these communities, I’ve been able to book different projects, network with my peers, and learn how to navigate in the industry. They offer so many resources and skill strengthening tools like– mock interviews, resume workshops, panel discussions, mentorship, etc. I am beyond grateful!

Most importantly I want to say thank you to Kekima Elizabeth Stuart, my courageously bold Mama. Whilst her soul rests in peace now, I am eternally grateful for the life and dream she encouraged me to have. I would not be who I am, without her.

Website: www.kaylinlavena.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylinlavena/

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

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/kaylincary

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaylin.lavena/