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

Hi Sara, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
From a young age, I was always the child who twirled around the living room, imagining it was a grand stage. Ballet and the arts were my first loves, capturing my imagination and sparking a lifelong passion. Yet, growing up in a tennis-centric family, my path initially veered toward the world of rackets and courts. Tennis consumed my days, but deep down, I yearned for the thrill of performing and the freedom of artistic expression.

It wasn’t until a foot injury sidelined me that I had the chance to reflect deeply on what truly makes my heart happy. The enforced pause in my tennis career gave me the clarity to realize that my true fulfillment lay in creativity. I knew I had to revive my childhood dream of becoming an actress, a dream I had pushed aside for far too long.

Despite the time and energy my family and I invested in my tennis journey and the parallel pursuit of a college degree, I couldn’t ignore the call of my inner child any longer. I came to embrace the belief that life isn’t about a straight path to your goals. The twists and turns, the detours we take, add richness and depth to our stories. It’s these unexpected curves that make the journey more exciting and our stories worth telling.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When it comes to art, many people tend to limit the term to a specific discipline they focus on. I don’t like to limit my art to only acting. For me, my whole life is art. From the way I dress to the way I see beauty in the little things, the art of life is what I am constantly trying to get better at. The beautiful thing is that it is a never-ending process. If you want to live an artistic life, you have to think, breathe, talk, and walk like an artist. Notice that art is everywhere around you and capture its beauty. Being a creator, not just a consumer, and stepping outside of my comfort zone every day is what keeps me growing.

I’m most proud of myself every time I show more of my vulnerable side in my acting and when I inspire people through my work. Becoming an actor or artist is not a destination, it’s a journey. Each of us is an artist; the difference lies in how passionately we work on our art. I am beyond excited for what is to come on my acting journey.

Self-belief, determination, a positive mindset, and the support and love from my close people have brought me to where I am today. It wasn’t always easy, and I know that it won’t always be, but that’s what makes my story interesting. Along the way, I have learned the importance of staying true to yourself, no matter what. Many people will try to change something about you, but that is usually what sets you apart from others and makes you special. I have learned to embrace my uniqueness and develop my own personal style.

I want the world to know that my brand and story are about living an artistic life in every sense. It’s about recognizing that art is all around us and that every aspect of life can be a creative endeavor. My journey is a testament to the magic of embracing your true self and the joy that comes from continuously growing and evolving as an artist.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Start your week in LA with a day at Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Stroll along the Santa Monica Pier, play arcade games, and ride the big wheel. Rent bikes and ride along the beach path to Venice Beach, where you can engage in some pickleball or beach tennis. Afterward, have a delicious meal at Urth Cafe and head back to the beach to watch the sunset. Finish the day with a casual dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

The next day, head to Malibu. Start with a hike along scenic trails with ocean views. Have a beach picnic at El Matador Beach and make sure to take a peek at the iconic Hannah Montana house. Explore the Getty Villa and end the day with a dinner at Nobu, enjoying exquisite food and stunning ocean views.

On the third day, explore Downtown LA. Begin with breakfast at the Grand Central Market, ride the Angel’s Flight Railway, and visit the Broad Museum and MOCA. Grab a coffee and Brazilian snack bites at Aquarela Coffee and visit the Last Bookstore. End the day with dinner and drinks at a chic rooftop bar, taking in the city skyline.

For Hollywood highlights, start by hiking up to the Hollywood sign for breathtaking views. Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, then head to Griffith Observatory for a stunning view of the city as the sun sets. Explore Griffith Park for a peaceful end to the day.

Spend the fifth day thrift shopping in Melrose. Hunt for unique fashion finds and vintage treasures, then treat yourself to a delightful brunch at La Republique. In the evening, dance the night away at La Descarga with Bachata music, or head to Good Times at Davey Wayne’s for some 70s hits.

On the sixth day, visit an old-school theatre to watch a classic movie and experience the nostalgia of a bygone era. Explore more of the city’s hidden gems, like small local galleries or unique boutiques, and have dinner at an old-school diner.

Finally, go for a hike in Pasadena, exploring scenic trails and beautiful landscapes. Spend some time relaxing with your friends in nature or take a yoga class to unwind.

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’d love to dedicate my shoutout to all the incredible people who believe in me and in the magic of following your dreams.

Instagram: sara__ygn

Other: TikTok: sara_yigin

Image Credits
Jared Fischler

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