Layla Solano (she/her)- Actress

Who said that being an artist has an age restriction? Layla Solano, a 17-year-old actress and singer based in Los Angeles, has (and still is) paving her way to becoming Hollywood’s next pot of gold. From a young age, she has been surrounded by music. With a father who practices several instruments, an older sister who coached her in singing and instruments, and even an older brother who plays bass, Solano’s talent was nurtured through the people around her. Even though she was born into an artsy family she saw her role in the acting industry as a dream because, “like every kid back then, we all wanted to be famous”, said Solano. Coincidentally at age 9, she and her dad went to the mechanics and met a woman who revealed her occupation as a manager and wanted to sign her on as a client. From this moment Layla’s life dream began its journey to becoming reality.

To many, a big decision like this at such a young age is risky but Solano acknowledged this and emphasized how she’s always felt connected to cinema and the film industry. From watching every behind-the-scenes footage from her DVDs to interviews with the cast, she “has always been dazzled by this world”. So the possibility of actually being in it was something she would not give up. “The experiences on set… keep me going. Sometimes it can feel really mundane especially if it’s a place I haven’t gotten something in a while… I always bring myself back to remember my love for what I do”. Now as a growing actress, Solano pointed out her love for a challenge, specifically learning new scripts. Although the audition process brings her a lot of joy and adrenaline as well, she finds the most satisfaction in knowing how each new character she auditions for deepens her skills, even if she doesn’t get the role. Unfortunately like every occupation, acting also has its downsides. Solano voiced her issue with comparing herself to other actors and actresses, especially ones her age. She realized that the constant burden of feeling not enough because of another actor who has more connections and is more attractive, etc, would not get her anywhere. Solano then decided to combat her insecurities by changing her perspective on things. Her mindset of “these people are my enemies” changed to one that saw other actors as people with talent and a common wish to make it big.

Both as an actress and a teenager, Layla emphasized that she is constantly changing and growing. From the age of 9 till now, she believes that all her progress was because she learned that she does not have to be like anyone else. “It’s great to get inspiration from talented people, but trying to remember my journey is my own… I am now more secure in the stage of life I am in”, said Solano. This shift in philosophy now allows her to be proud and happy for those around her rather than comparing herself to different actors. She highlighted a story of how when she was younger, she tried out for a Walmart commercial and met another contender along the way. This contender turned out to be Xochitl Gomez the actress for America Chavez, and now Solano can’t help but appreciate the journeys of those around her. Now Solano is working on college apps, but most importantly she is continuing to work on herself in hopes of letting go of expectations.