The Multitalented Mind of Sophie Milord: Creativity, Culture, and Embracing Every Gift
By Dayana Preval
Sophie Millard is a Haitian-American creative, entrepreneur, writer, and communications specialist dedicated to storytelling, inspiration, and the arts. From publishing her debut book, 21 Days of Splendor to Inspire Your Spirit, to founding Just So Splendid Creations, Sophie has built a life centered on creativity, empowerment, and purpose.
In a recent interview, she shared her journey from her Haitian roots and early love for writing to her work in acting and entrepreneurship.
Shaping a Creative Soul
Sophie grew up as the youngest of seven children to Haitian parents, a unique dynamic that she says shaped her into an old soul and creative of all sorts. Due to the age gap with her siblings, she often spent time with her parents, whose interests heavily influenced her.
Her mother was a natural creative, making cakes and decorations for the church, which provided a firsthand look at a creative side hustle.
Her father instilled a deep love for music, particularly the 70s, disco, and old Haitian music.
This environment with both creative expression and the Haitian value of hard work, and her ability to always "find and make her own space" in life.
From Soap Operas to Storytelling
Sophie's creative journey began early. At 8 years old, watching soap operas like Passions inspired her to start writing her own "fake soap operas" in a little burgundy journal, marveling at the worlds people could create.
She later discovered a love for radio, which sparked her first piece of writing, a romantic song. This childhood blend of acting and writing desires led her to constantly explore different creative mediums.
Fortunately, Sophie's parents were supportive of her creative path, which is rare in many immigrant families where careers are often limited to doctor, lawyer, or nurse. Pretty much, the careers that make money. Her mother used her writing skills to help with her business website, and her father, while jokingly suggesting she be a news anchor for the financial stability, was supportive of her dream to act.
Embracing the Multi-Creative Life
When asked how she manages so many creative hats, Sophie’s honest reply was: "I don't. I'm tired all the time." However, she views her multifaceted nature as a blessing, allowing her to reach and inspire people across many different passions.
She is a firm believer in the power of giving all your gifts a chance, quoting her new mantra: "Just a girl sharing her creative world."
Inspired by figures like Jamie Foxx and Debbie Allen, who are masters of acting, singing, writing, and dancing, Sophie refuses to be limited to one title. "I can't just be relegated to one thing. That’s just not what my spirit calls to."
Inspiring Through Experience
Her book, 21 Days of Splendor to Inspire Your Spirit, is a personal and uplifting project. She hopes readers feel inspired and empowered, using the book to help build their confidence. The book includes personal stories, such as her first public speaking experience in high school, and is designed to encourage readers to affirm themselves and realize that their unique purpose is something no one can take away.
Under the umbrella brand, Just So Splendid Creations, Sophie combines her work in writing, acting, and entrepreneurship to create an inspirational powerhouse.
Acting and Mental Health Advocacy
Sophie's background in psychology informs her creative expression. Though she initially considered becoming a clinical therapist, she found she wanted to reach people in a different way.
This led to the creation of her short film, Drowning, which explores the hidden reality of high-functioning depression.
"A lot of times we feel like we just have to keep going and going and going... you're not putting yourself first, so... we end up just kind of taking on this burden of the world, and not really tending to our mental health."
Through acting roles that speak to mental health, she hopes to express things people are afraid to share, helping others feel seen and valued.
Advice for Creatives
For any creative or multi-talented person feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, Sophie's advice is simple and powerful:
“Just be who you are, regardless. Don't hold on to what other people are saying about you, or what you think people might say about you. Literally just fully be yourself... they are not paying your bills, okay? Do what you want to do, be who you are, and just express yourself, and just keep it pushing, keep it moving.”
Watch the full interview here.