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

Hi Michelle, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I have been a risk-taker since I can remember. I was taught from a young age that, in order to accomplish your goals, you need to be prepared to put in the work and run the risk. I grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa, and, as an actor and writer, I knew I was limited as to what I could do in my hometown. I took the risk of auditioning for the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles, California, and ended up receiving a scholarship to the Academy. I left South Africa alone at the age of 21 and moved to Hollywood, California to pursue acting. I had no money in my bank account and my parents could only help me with two semesters of school and then I was on my own. This never deterred me. It only motivated me. I knew I just needed to get my foot in the door and the rest would align – as long as I worked hard and never gave up. I had to leave the Academy after two semesters as I could no longer afford the fees and managed to find myself an agent that helped sponsor my O-1 visa to the US. It took me 9 years and many visas, lawyers, and difficult years, to obtain my permanent residency in the U.S. During this time, I focused on the art and did every little job possible to get me by. Working 18hour days, on minimum wage, and without my family became the norm for me but I never doubted the journey for a second.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an actor and a writer. Starting at a young age in Johannesburg, South Africa, I have dedicated 15 years of experience to the realm of Acting, writing, Arts, and Entertainment. I began performing on stages across Southern Africa as young as 10 years old and then transitioned into the world of writing and media. As an actor, I have performed across the mediums of stage, film, and television. As a writer, I have worked within the mediums of hard news journalism, feature writing, scriptwriting, social media content. I wanted to be a professional actor because I knew I was obsessed with the craft and wanted to mold it into my career. I wanted to specialize and fine-tune my acting and creativity to the point that I am able to create films and performances that resonate globally. I was big into physical theatre growing up, and that medium especially is able to communicate across transnational borders and cultures. I wanted to be able to do this on a global scale through film and television and tell stories that would otherwise go unheard. I wanted to be a professional actor to be a part of an artistic process that initiates conversation, understanding, empathy, and insight across the globe. What I love most about being an actress is having the opportunity to submerge myself into the lives of other people – I believe this is what sets me apart – I come from a country that has been through so many difficulties and I have seen the power of film and media have to tell the stories we need to be told.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love living in Miami! If my best friend were to visit, I would, of course, take her to the beach – I love North Beach as it is a little more private but simply beautiful. I would take her around Design District – for the stores, Wynwood – for the art, Brickell – for the fun. There is so much beauty in Miami!

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?
My family is the sole reason I am who I am today and have accomplished what I have. From the young age of 5 years old, they supported me and did whatever they could to further my acting and creative dreams. In South Africa, we have a word that is called “Ubuntu” – this means; “I am because you are”. I am only who I am because of my incredible family and friends.

Instagram: @Darling_shell

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1NMG9Uyv5opAAMSSS_o4pA

Image Credits
Christopher Andrew Smith Marc Cartwright [Headshot]

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