Amazing Asians in the Arts: Elaine Auburn

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Elaine Auburn is an actress, host and model based in Los Angeles. The accomplished multilingual entertainer was first spotted by a studio executive, and ever since has taken on numerous roles and projects in the arts.  From television to film, her work includes performances on shows for TruTV, Oxygen Network and Discovery Life, and her incredible voiceover talent has been featured in commercials, video games, public service announcements, educational videos and more. Along with the passion, devotion and appreciation she carries for her craft, Elaine also makes time to give back. She currently sits on the board for Girls IN Focus, an organization with a mission to connect girls and non-binary youth globally with film programs so they emerge as industry leaders. She encourages young artists just starting their career to not settle for average and, “if you don’t succeed wake up the next day and keep going.” Read on to learn more about Elaine Auburn and what makes her an Amazing Asian in the Arts!

 

Name:  Elaine Auburn

 

Heritage:  Chinese 

 

Hometown:   Hong Kong & San Francisco

 

Current City:   Los Angeles

 

Current project:   Working on a dark comedy

 

What are some of your favorite credits/projects?

 

I love projects that tell meaningful stories; for example, a recent episode for Dhar Mann studios encouraging teens to be proud of their heritage.

 

Any advice for young people getting into the arts?

 

You are unique, don’t settle for average. Life is a marathon not a sprint. If you don’t succeed, wake up the next day and keep going.  

 

How did you get your start?

 

I was spotted by a studio executive.

 

Do you have any favorite moments in your career that you'd like to share?

 

Interviewing Robert De Niro.

 

What have you found is the biggest challenge in your career?

 

While diversity has gotten more attention recently, roles specific to Asians are still limited.  It is always an honor to play a role authentic to Asian heritage.  

 

What are some interesting facts about yourself?

 

I can sing happy birthday in Italian.

 

Do you have any organizations or non-profits you work with you’d like to highlight? 

 

I am on the board of Girls IN Focus. We empower girls and non-binary youth with the skills and knowledge to break into the film industry. 

 

Who do you admire?

 

So many!  Oprah, Jack Canfield, and Norman Lear just to name a few. And, the many incredible actors and actresses for their craft and dedication!  

 

Do you have any other “special skills?” 

 

Jane of several languages, master of a couple. Yoga, karate, prompter, hosting, modeling.  I work well with kids and pets.

 

If you could go back in time, what would you tell your younger self? 

 

Girl, don’t wait to go after your dreams!

 

What skills did you find to be the most helpful in your career? 

 

Self-discipline, hard work, persistence, and appreciation for everyone who makes the creative process possible. 

 

What do you love most about what you do?

 

Being able to step into the shoes of characters from all walks of life and experience their joy and pain, hopes and dreams. 

 

Do you have any self-care practices you do to stay focused and sane?

 

Eat, move, sleep.  Yoga, meditation, positivity.

 

What inspires you? 

 

Stories of grit and underdog, succeeding against all odds.  People who are positive, down to earth and give back to the community.  

 

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself? 

 

I am proud to be a freckled Asian.  I consider myself a global citizen and love to celebrate different cultures through food and travel. 

 

To find out more about Elaine, please visit her at:

 

Website: Bookelaine.com

Instagram: @ahungryactress