An abridged version of this article originally appeared in the Spring 2025 Pink Issue of Showstopper Magazine.
Mila Nabours has always loved being in the spotlight. Growing up in Santa Monica, California, she started out as a competitive gymnast, dedicating her days to training and tumbling. But an injury at age 12 forced her to step back from gymnastics, and Mila soon found herself on a new path that led to competitive dancing, acting, and later, music. Now, as a full-time college student at UC Santa Barbara, she’s juggling her studies, an acting career, and a music journey that’s taken her to stages around the world.
Complex Characters
Mila’s early years were all about gymnastics. “Training was my whole life up until age 12,” she recalled. But when injuries put a pause on that path, she dove into competitive dance, where many of her teammates were already involved in the entertainment world. That’s what first sparked her interest in acting. “I began acting classes and immediately fell in love with [it],” she said. She’s been acting ever since, taking on roles in projects like Feet of Fire and Nina Saiza.
Acting opened up a new world for Mila, one where she could explore different characters and emotions. “I’m always open to different types of roles; in fact, I like a good challenge since it expands my horizons and takes me out of my comfort zone,” she shared. Though she often gets cast as the “mean girl,” Mila says her favorite roles are the ones with depth. “I think I enjoy complex characters the most. It’s the most emotionally satisfying and really allows me to dig deep and explore my emotions,” she explained.
As a young actress, Mila has already picked up quite a few awards, including Best Young Actress. “Having my work recognized is so rewarding, especially given how passionate I am about my craft,” she shared. And when it comes to on-set moments, she loves the friendships she’s built along the way. “Uncontrollable laughter with the cast and crew—that’s the best. Building bonds on set helps take my character choices to the next level.” For Mila, every set is like an acting class, where she’s constantly learning and growing with her castmates.
Music in Her Blood
Mila grew up in a family where music was everywhere. “My parents are both classically trained and have a deep understanding of music theory,” she shared. Her dad, who records music for movies and plays in all kinds of styles, even jumps in on some of her tracks. “Their input means everything to me. My parents and their expertise have been such a huge help when it comes to crafting and cultivating my songs, and I’m so beyond grateful that they play such a big part in my journey.”
Mila’s recent EP, Vision, explores self-discovery and growth, inspired by “the whirl of emotions” that came with her teenage years. “I was driven by the idea of exploring a new mental place and leaving my comfort zone,” she explained. Songs like “Hypnosis” capture that “out-of-this-world sensation that comes when you focus on the places your mind goes when you centralize your freedom and withhold doubt.”
One of Mila’s most personal songs, “Memory,” is dedicated to her grandparents, both of whom were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. “Seeing their minds slip away is honestly one of the hardest things to watch,” she revealed. Mila wrote the song hoping to connect with others facing similar challenges, reminding them they’re not alone. “So many of us, unfortunately, have to witness this tragedy, and the best thing you can do is spend as much time as possible with these loved ones and make them feel safe.”
Performing Around the World
From New York to Milan, Mila’s had the chance to perform on stages around the world. “I think Milan might’ve been my favorite memory,” she recalled, looking back on how her family turned it into a vacation to explore Italy. The audience there was “so receptive and attentive,” giving Mila the chance to be fully present and enjoy the moment. “I completely let go without an ounce of doubt or nerves.” It’s clear that travel and performing go hand-in-hand for her. But Mila’s dreams don’t stop there. She’s got her sights set on performing in more tropical locations someday. “Bora Bora comes to mind,” she laughed.
Balancing Act
For Mila, connecting with her audience means keeping her work authentic. Whether she’s acting or singing, she likes to find a personal connection to every role she plays or song she writes. “If it’s a character, I try to find ways I internally resemble their personality.” And when it comes to music, she brings her own feelings to life through lyrics and melody, aiming to make her art “personal and organic.”
Even as she shares her life with fans online, Mila knows how important it is to balance social media with real life. “I find balance by allocating time in my day for creating content, but also making sure I focus on the present,” she explained. It’s a balancing act many young performers face, and Mila seems to have found her own way to stay grounded.
What’s Next?
With plenty of projects in the pipeline, Mila’s fans have a lot to look forward to. She recently teamed up with artist Sage Sam to release their single, “Let Loose,” and they’re planning to create a full album together. “Combining our styles into a song and discovering how well our voices blended gave us the green light to keep creating together,” she shared excitedly. Beyond music, Mila hopes to take on more film roles and, one day, even tour with her music.
As for her personal goals, Mila wants to keep focusing on her mental health and exploring who she is as she grows. “Change is good. And as I change, it’s okay for my surroundings and lifestyle to change with me.” Her advice for aspiring performers? “Believe in yourself and don’t worry about the feedback you’ll receive. If you believe in what you’re putting out, people are more likely to believe in it, too.”
