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

Hi Laavanya, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, into a Sri Lankan/Tamil family, and spent my formative years there in a multicultural environment, surrounded by my large family. At the age of 8, my father’s job took us to Dubai, UAE, where I became immersed in the expatriate community and attended international schools, exposing me to a diverse array of cultures, languages, and people from around the globe. Living in the Middle East presented unique experiences, and adapting to a new country was both challenging and enriching. Following our time in Dubai, we relocated to Chennai, India, where I spent another four years before returning to Malaysia to complete my high school education. This upbringing undeniably molded my character—I developed a strong sense of adaptability, open-mindedness, and cultural awareness through interactions with friends from various ethnic backgrounds and exposure to diverse lifestyles and perspectives. It has encouraged desire to tell diverse stories as our industry craves it. Growing up and being exposed to different cultures and communities, has allowed me to see the beauty in our differences and gave me an understanding about different countries, religions, cuisines and cultures. This exposure has fueled my eagerness to travel and see the world more.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I previously worked as a Testing Coordinator on HBO’s “Gray Matter” and “Project Greenlight,” My other Health and Safety roles included shows like Snowfall, Mixed-ish, Grown-ish, and For All Mankind. I also served as a testing coordinator on Reservation Dogs. Throughout these experiences, I played a significant role in the department, sharing my knowledge and expertise.

Additionally, I had the opportunity to contribute to the groundbreaking series “For All Mankind” as an Office Production Assistant during its fourth season. Beyond my work in production, I’ve demonstrated my skills in producing compelling content. I spearheaded the production of the ARRI-sponsored short film “Steal, Kill & Destroy” alongside Darron Savage. I also collaborated on a short film with award-winning director Morgan A Hammen, supported by Emmy winner Greg Yaitanes and Michael Goi.

Currently, I hold a pivotal position at live streaming company. I play a central role in delivering captivating live entertainment experiences to audiences worldwide. Recent projects include the 2024 Astra Film & TV Awards and successfully executing “Unreleased Live: Krizz Kaliko.

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.
The best way to experience Los Angeles is by exploring its diverse neighborhoods. So, I’d take them to Malibu. Gotta swing by Malibu Seafood for the best clam chowder and fresh clams, then catch the sunset at El Matador Beach. I use to work at the Sony Studios Lot so I’d show them around Culver City, maybe stroll down Culver Blvd, and cap off the day with some Indian cuisine. And when it’s time to unwind, Noho Arts District is the move for margaritas and a round of pool. The last thing I would try to take them to is Silverlake and try out their wine bars, restaurants and coffee shops, especially Pijja Palace. Every time someone visits, I try my best to get reservations at there because it combines my two favorite cuisines and its just such a good vibe.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I just watched ‘Monkey Man,’ and as someone who grew up learning and reading about Hindu mythology, seeing it executed so masterfully by Dev Patel was truly amazing. Hearing stories about Hanuman during my childhood and now witnessing a modern interpretation intertwined with current events in India felt incredibly creative and clever. It provided a representation that I never realized I could have, and it left me yearning for more movies like this or even to be a part of them. So, a big shoutout to Dev Patel for opening the door to so many possibilities.

Website: https://laavanyahuntfilm.wixsite.com/website

Instagram: laavahunt

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laavanya-%E2%80%9Claava%E2%80%9D-hunt-37b442176/

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