Meet Mayling Ng from England, who moved to LA three years ago to pursue an acting career.
After filming in Hong Kong Martial Arts movies including Lady Bloodfight, and Kumite, she moved to to the US to work in films including Wonder Woman, playing the Amazon Orana. Most recently Mayaling appeared in the latest Scorpion King movie as the villain Khensa.
Was there a particular reason you chose LA?
I chose LA as my final destination after living across the globe, as it compliments my life being in action movies, and wanting to be around other people who live the healthy lifestyle. I have an amazing inspiring group of friends who are like family in Golds Gym, Venice. Combined with the healthier lifestyle and the creative, laid-back vibe, I feel relaxed and inspired at the same time, which I never felt anywhere else.
What do you miss most from home?
I left the UK at 13 years old and grew up on the island of Tenerife where my family and brothers are still based. I later ended up in Singapore. So from what I remember, maybe the excitement of London and an indulgent Sunday roast!
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since?
I was invited to compete at the The Arnold Classic (World Championships) in Ohio in 2013, to represent Singapore after winning silver in an IFBB (International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness) event in 2011. After landing at LAX a week before to acclimate here, and staying in Santa Monica at the Double Tree hotel, I knew instantly that I found my forever home.
Venice hasn’t changed apart from the scooters and Instagram bloggers everywhere lol!
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus UK, Tenerife and Singapore?
The lifestyle here is vibrant and exciting and fresh. I feel blessed everyday, even when driving around. People complain about the traffic, but in London the traffic is about the same and maybe even more aggressive. In Singapore you wouldn’t have a car unless you’re a millionaire because of the certification, GST, tax costs, even though the infrastructure is the best and transportation is fantastic. But carrying your day’s belonging around in a bag gets old. So I still feel lucky everyday just to have my simple SUV here. I think life stresses are a choice and you choose how to deal with them.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
A great place I train at now in West LA is called Enter Martial Arts. Their Kung Fu-Wushu classes are great for both advanced martial artists and complete beginners. It is tailored for people to progress at their own pace and skill level. From basic kicks, weapons techniques, stretching and more.
Since I’ve been there, I’ve really noticed improvements in my flexibility, and sharping up my stances and forms. There’s also a great community atmosphere there, as everyone is very supportive of each other.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Join a group like Brits in LA on Facebook for things like advice on apartment rentals, car leases, immigration lawyers and medical insurance.
Lots of our members join our group Brits in LA seeking out words of wisdom – what is the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
“Opportunities are infrequent, so always be prepared for anything” from my acting mentor Judd Nelson- the infamous “Criminal” from The Breakfast Club. I’m grateful that since I moved here Judd has become one of my closest friends and I take this quote to heart. So I’m always working on my skills not just in martial arts or my physique but also learning as much as I can in acting, accent classes and watching and reading as much as I can to BEING READY!
Lastly, how can we find out more about you? Are you working on anything at the moment?
I’m filming all the time and also have a reality show concept that was optioned last year. And now I am in talks with various other productions, so hopefully I will be moving into the producing side of the business soon. Very exciting!
You can find me on instagram.com/maylingng or facebookcom/ngmayling or maylingng.com
