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

Hi Liliana, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Almost everything in life comes with risks and benefits, which can be scary! The reality of taking a risk is that you might stumble, but the possibility of achieving something awesome can make it all worthwhile.

I took a risk by moving here to Atlanta to pursue opportunities in TV and film acting. When I came here, I knew only one person. Of course there was the fear that I would not like my new job (I support myself as a nurse), struggle to make friends, dislike Atlanta, or not book any roles. Fortunately, the exact opposite happened. I enjoy my job as a nurse, I have made several incredible friends, I LOVE Atlanta, and I booked my first SAG (Screen Actors Guild) co-star role. Granted, all of these things took time and energy to foster, but with the right outlook, I was able to create something really special for myself here.

When taking a risk, there is the worry that you might fail. For me, in this specific situation, the fear of not taking the leap—and later regretting it—was worse. I’m in my 20s and that’s when everyone says you should experiment and try new things. I’m trying to take that advice to heart!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m pursing TV and film acting, and while I’m still pretty green, I’m constantly learning new things about the industry and craft. I’ve completed four out of five levels of improv at the iconic Dad’s Garage, which has been an absolute joy. I love improv and am eager to sign up for the final level. Improv excites me because anything can happen and it’s so fun to play out a scene with another actor in real time without any forethought. The spontaneity of it all is magical!

I am most proud of having booked my first SAG co-star role in a feature film called Incision as “Nurse One.” Getting to that point required a lot of effort: headshots, a demo reel, acting classes, representation, and most importantly, my background in nursing. I would not consider that easy, but certainly worth it. I love acting and for me, the journey has been rewarding. Being on set and surrounded by so many talented creatives was an amazing experience and I hope to have the privilege of doing it again in the near future.

As an actress, it can sometimes be discouraging to submit so many auditions and not hear back. It’s easy to think, “What am I doing wrong?” or “Why don’t they like me?” But it’s important to remember that sometimes they’re just looking for something different. You can’t take it personally. Of course, that’s easier said than done, but it’s the truth. Falling into such thought patterns is unhealthy and it will not serve you.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that it’s all about the people you work with and the relationships you develop. I would not be where I am today (granted, I have a long way to go) without the support and guidance of past acting teachers, fellow actors, my agent and my family and friends. In the end, it’s all about community!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Atlanta is a wonderful city with so much to see and do! Here is a list of things I would do with my friend visiting town:

1. Go to the Georgia Aquarium (see belugas!)
2. Walk and/or bike the Beltline
3. Go to the farmer’s market at Piedmont Park
4. Explore Krog Street Market
5. Shop at Ponce City Market
6. Take a stroll around Oakland Cemetery
7. See a movie at Plaza Theatre
8. See a show at the Fox Theatre

For good eats, drinks and vibes, I would take my friend to:

1. Alon’s Bakery for tasty pastries and coffee
2. Ladybird for drinks and people watching
3. Delbar Middle Eastern Restaurant and Bar in Inman Park for dinner
4. Jeni’s Ice Cream for dessert

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My list could go on, but I’d definitely like to mention my neighbors-turned-friends, Emma Husk and Alex Mbuthia. Both are incredibly talented women working in the TV and film industry. They have helped me film sketches, tape auditions, and provided immense support in my creative endeavors. I am so grateful to have them in my life. I love spending time with them and bouncing ideas off of each other (i.e. interviewing passersby on the Beltline)!

Instagram: @lilianasteeg

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lilianasteeg

Other: TikTok: @littlebitoflily

Image Credits
Amisha Nair, Ryan Perich, Joseph Bradley, and Kelly McAdams (DP)/Aaron Shore (co-director)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.