Leila Amirov

I've been back with my family in Baku, Azerbaijan, for a week now. The last few months seem like a dream. I spent three months in Los Angeles, where I had a major role in a Hollywood movie. It's so surreal.

My days here start early. The soft hum of the city waking up filters through my window. My mother, already in her nurse's uniform, pours herself a cup of tea. I join her, enjoying these quiet moments before my siblings wake up. Even though I'm 23 now, I feel like a child again, soaking in the comfort of home.

My mother raised us as a single parent. She worked hard and gave us almost everything we wanted, even if it meant sacrifices on her part. I dreamed of becoming an actress from an early age, but lessons were too expensive. So, I taught myself from books and tutorials on the internet. I landed a small part in a play at a good theater. The director was impressed and recommended me to a photographer. Then everything took its course.

An agency took me on and advised me to improve my English for international productions. I studied like crazy and practiced conversations online. Eventually, I got an international request. I did an e-casting, recording myself for the audition. They were thrilled and invited me to LA. After more rehearsals, they were convinced I was right for the part. I ended up working with international stars. If the movie is a success, it could be a big step in my career.

But now, I'm back in our modest house on the outskirts of the city. As much as I loved LA, there's comfort in this routine. I help my siblings with their homework, cook with my mother, and go on walks in our neighborhood.

I'm grateful for my mother, who always believed in me, and even for my father, though he was never there. He gave me a certain attractiveness, a “pretty privilege,” especially in Hollywood.

Here, in this small corner of the world, I’m reminded that no matter where life takes me, this is where I belong. For now, at least.