Meet Solange Nolan | Author, Actor, Model & Branding Guru

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

Hi Solange, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I believe risk is essential for growth, both personally and professionally. Without it, we stagnate, and miss the opportunity to unlock our true potential. Throughout my life and career, taking risks has been a driving force. From leaving my home country of South Africa to build a career across three continents, to stepping out of my comfort zone in new fields like publishing and modeling, every leap I’ve made has been worth it. Whether it was telling the stories of former child soldiers, breaking into the entertainment industry or taking a stand on what I believe, I’ve learned that risk leads to profound change. Each challenge I’ve faced, every moment of uncertainty, has fueled my resilience and deepened my passion for my work. I’ve found that risk is not about the possibility of failure, but about embracing the unknown in pursuit of a higher purpose—living out my calling.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is deeply rooted in storytelling, woven from a rich tapestry of lived experiences across three continents and a heritage that’s a fusion in itself. What sets me apart is not just the depth of these experiences but the diverse cultural landscapes that have shaped me. I’ve been privileged to tell stories that span the globe—from branding celebrities and corporations to sharing the profound narratives of child soldiers and orphans in Africa. I’m most proud of the versatility I’ve cultivated in my career. From crafting episodic synopses for renowned soap operas like “The Bold & the Beautiful” and “Days of Our Lives,” to being the first PR professional to represent South Africa at the Grammys and Oscars, to collaborating with organizations like the BBC and initiatives like the Prince’s Trust in the UK. Delving into the lives of former child soldiers and AIDS orphans in war-torn regions like Uganda and South Sudan has enriched my perspective immeasurably, honing my ability to connect with diverse audiences on a deeper level. My unique blend of roles—as a writer, actor, model, and personal coach—is rooted in a profound commitment to sharing authentic narratives that inspire and empower. Getting to where I am today was far from easy. It required stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing challenges head-on. I’ve had to overcome cultural barriers, industry biases, and personal doubts. Yet, I leaned into my faith, relying on resilience and adaptability. Each obstacle became an opportunity to grow and refine my vision. The lessons I’ve learned are many, but the most significant is the power of authenticity and embracing one’s unique identity. My multicultural heritage and diverse professional background have become my greatest assets, enabling me to connect with a wide array of audiences and tell stories that resonate universally. What I want the world to know about my brand and story is that they are anchored in authenticity, empowerment, and transformation—with an exquisite sense of style, of course. My mission is to use all my platforms—through my upcoming book, films, game, and coaching programs—to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams fearlessly. I believe storytelling is a powerful catalyst for change, and I aim to contribute narratives that not only entertain but also uplift and provoke thought.

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 bestie was visiting LA for a week, I’d be sure to share the vibrant mix of culture, nature, and hidden gems that make this city so special. Day 1: Iconic Landmarks, Urth Caffé, and Dolphin Watching We’d kick off the week with a visit to the Griffith Observatory, taking in breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. After exploring the exhibits, we’d head down to Hollywood Boulevard to see the Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre. For lunch, we’d stop at Urth Caffé in West Hollywood, famous for its organic coffees, teas, and delectable dishes. We’d indulge in their Urth Salad —it’s absolutely delicious. And the bread they serve alongside? OMG, it’s to die for! Freshly baked with a perfect crust, it’s the kind of bread that makes a meal unforgettable. In the afternoon, we’d drive along Sunset Boulevard, soaking in the historic sights, and end up at The Sunset Restaurant (one of my faves) in Malibu for a beachfront dinner. Here, we’d not only enjoy exquisite cuisine but also the magical experience of dolphin watching as the sun dips below the horizon. Day 2: Beach Day and Rooftop Dining We’d spend the day exploring Malibu’s stunning beaches. Starting with a morning walk at El Matador State Beach, known for its rugged cliffs and hidden coves. For brunch, we’d visit Malibu Farm Cafe at the end of the Malibu Pier, enjoying farm-to-table dishes with ocean views. Afterward, we’d relax on Zuma Beach or try paddleboarding. Dinner would be at Granville rooftop in West Hollywood, where we’d enjoy yummy modern American cuisine with a great atmosphere and panoramic views. Day 3: Peacocks and Cuban Flavors In the morning, we’d head to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Arcadia to see the majestic peacocks roaming freely among beautiful gardens. On the way, we’d make a quick stop at Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill for a refreshing salad lunch, perhaps the Harvest Quinoa Salad. In the afternoon, we’d explore Old Town Pasadena, browsing boutique shops and enjoying the charming streets. For dinner, I would have wanted her to experience Los Feliz, El Cochinito, but sadly it’s closed now. So we’ll head to Versailles Cuban Restaurant on La Cienega Boulevard, renowned for its authentic Cuban cuisine. Day 4: Sunday at Oasis Church and Artistic Vibes Sunday morning, we’d attend a service at Oasis Church LA, for church with some mutual friends. Afterwards, we’d grab brunch with our friends at The Griddle Cafe. We’d spend the afternoon in Venice Beach, starting with a stroll along the Venice Canals, marveling at the charming houses and waterways. We’d explore the eclectic shops and street art on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, stopping by Gjelina for a light bite. Sunset drinks at High Rooftop Lounge atop the Hotel Erwin would be perfect to those panoramic coastal views. Day 5: Downtown LA, Italian Delights, and LA Dodgers Game: We’d dive into the urban scene with a visit to the Broad Museum to experience contemporary art, followed by a photo op at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Lunch would be a comforting bowl of pho at Pho 79 in Little Saigon. In the afternoon, we’d head to Dodger Stadium for an exciting LA Dodgers game! Experiencing a baseball game is a quintessential LA activity, and the energy at Dodger Stadium is unmatched. We’d enjoy classic ballpark snacks like Dodger Dogs and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. After the game, we’d make our way to Little Dom’s in Los Feliz, a charming Italian restaurant known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious Southern Italian cuisine. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after an exhilarating game. Day 6: Studio Tour and Porto’s Treats A trip to LA wouldn’t be complete without a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood. We’d take the Warner Bros. Studio Tour to see iconic sets and props. For lunch, we’d visit Porto’s Bakery in Burbank, indulging in their famous Cuban pastries—especially the Guava & Cheese Strudel, which is my absolute must-try! In the evening, we’d return to West Hollywood for dinner at Catch LA. We’d finish the night at The Viper Room or The Roxy Theatre for live music. Day 7: Shopping and Farewell Dinner On our final day, we’d enjoy brunch at The Ivy on Robertson Boulevard, a hotspot for celebrities and delightful cuisine. We’d spend the afternoon shopping on Melrose Avenue, hunting for vintage finds and designer pieces. A quick stop at Urth Caffé on Melrose for a refreshing iced boba. We’d make sure to savor their freshly baked bread again—it’s that good! For our farewell dinner, we’d head back to Granville or perhaps try The Little Door for an intimate Mediterranean dining experience, celebrating a week of wonderful memories.Throughout the week, we’d connect with LA’s inspiring locals—artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs who embody the city’s creative spirit.

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 truly believe that no one’s success happens in a vacuum. Every part of my journey has been shaped by the wisdom, support, and love of those who have guided and inspired me along the way. From the teachers—especially the nuns—who nurtured my potential at the primary level, to my first bosses in entertainment who gave me the chance to hone my craft, each step in my journey has been a collaboration. I’m forever grateful to my agents, Ryan Colby (Colby Management) and Deneen White (Truth Management), true trailblazers and bosses in their field. A heartfelt shoutout also goes to my VIP Ignite Live coaches—Bobby Funaro, Haviland Stillwell, Mark Christopher Lawrence, Jeffrey Gurian, and Sharon Lennon—who are not only teaching me the craft but continue to shape my approach to the industry. Deep appreciation also goes to Alycia Kaback and Michael Fomkin, the visionaries behind VIP Ignite. Special tribute to my family and my parents, who have both passed but left an indelible mark that I hope to honor in all that I do. Their influence shaped my values, and their love still fuels my drive today. To my most recent colleagues, who continue to inspire me, and the next generation that I mentor, especially my ‘kids’ in Uganda, I hope to pass on the same love and guidance I’ve received. And none of this would be possible without my faith. Jesus, my Savior, remains at the center of everything I do, fueling my purpose and grounding me in every step. His presence, coupled with the wisdom from authors like N.K. Jemisin, Yuval Noah Harari, Amy Tan, Philip Yancey, C.S. Lewis, Mo Gawdat, Nella Larsen, and Mark Victor Hansen, continues to challenge and inspire me. Special shout out also to humanitarians and pastors, Gary & Marilyn Skinner, whose work, leadership and mentorship have been a beacon of hope and a source of constant inspiration.

Website: https://linktr.ee/solangenolan

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/solange-nolan-10a54322/

Twitter: @solangenolan

Facebook: https://facebook.com/solangenolan

Image Credits
1) Photo: Solange Nolan_ShoutOutLA; Credits: Photographer: @amreedphoto AM Reed, Creative Director/Stylist: @colbymanagement @ryancolbymanagement; Hair & Make-Up: @viktoriyatsenko Viktoriia Yatsenko
2) Photo: Solange Nolan_NYC Shoot; Credits: Creative Director/ Stylist: @colbymanagement @ryancolbymanagement with @arberlala, Photographer: @swatters Sean P. Watters; Hair & Make-Up: Nadia Santiago @santiago.nadia