What’s on *your* vision board for 2026? Maybe it’s starting a side hustle (hiii, Etsy bracelet biz), auditioning for the spring musical or finally publishing your poems for the world to see.
Dreaming big is one thing, but actually taking the leap? That can feel…kinda intimidating.
So we’re here to help: Welcome to Make It Happen 2026, your guide to glowing up your goals this year. All week long, we’re sharing real advice from GL girls who decided to go for it—whether that’s growing an online platform, writing a book or turning a creative hobby into actual income. Ready to get majorly inspired? Thought so!
Meet Ava S., 13, who’s bringing in bucks by acting in iconic TV shows.
🎥 The Biz:
“I’ve been doing TV and film background work for about a year now. It started when I landed a spot as one of dozens of school kids in Amy Schumer’s Kinda Pregnant. Then I scored a featured background role on Law & Order: SVU. Filming that day was so much fun—and the scene I was in actually went viral. That’s when I realized how much I loved it and how much I wanted to keep getting cast.”
💰 The Bucks:
“I typically earn around $200 a day. I’ve booked a bunch of jobs this past year. But I’ve also applied to tons I didn’t get—it’s all part of it.”
⭐ Your Turn:
If you’re a minor, you’ll need a work permit and a trust account (a special savings account where part of your earnings is set aside until you’re an adult) before you can start. Most casting agencies don’t require professional headshots for background roles, so DIY pics work just fine. To find jobs, join a platform like backstage.com and follow casting agencies on Insta to stay updated on who’s hiring extras and what projects they’re casting. One key rule: A parent has to be on set with you at all times, so make sure they’re on board first.
Hey, girl! Just to let you know, this originally ran in our June/July 2025 issue. Read our print mag for *free* today when you click HERE!
Are you an aspiring actor? Check these out:
🎭 EXCLUSIVE! Mirabelle Lee spills on all things acting and new Disney series Saturdays
🎭 EXCLUSIVE! Izzie Flórez talks all about acting and using her platform for good
🎭 EXCLUSIVE! Is there anything Swayam Ranjeet Bhatia can’t do?
Slider and Top Image: Antonino Visalli
