Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment

Chasing Dreams: Immigrants in Sports and Entertainment is a series dedicated to highlighting the remarkable stories of athletes, creatives, and performers who have come to the United States in pursuit of their dreams. Through their journeys, we celebrate the resilience, passion, and determination that drive success across various industries. ​

​This week, we spotlight Milla Jovovich, the Ukrainian-born actress, model, and producer whose dynamic career in entertainment has spanned decades and genres. From refugee beginnings to international acclaim, her story is a powerful testament to what immigrant determination can achieve.

Milla was born in Kyiv, Ukraine (then part of the Soviet Union) in 1975.  When she was five (5) years old, her family immigrated to the United States, seeking safety and opportunity after leaving a politically unstable homeland.  Her parents—her father, a Serbian doctor, and her mother, a Russian actress—faced the challenges familiar to many immigrant families:  starting over, adapting to a new culture, and working hard to provide for their children.
Milla quickly found her voice through creative expression.  She began modeling at a young age, appearing in major fashion campaigns and gracing magazine covers worldwide.  Her early success in modeling opened the door to a vibrant film career.
Breaking Through in Hollywood
Milla made her film debut in the early 1990s, but her breakout role came in The Fifth Element (1997), where she played the unforgettable Leeloo.  The performance established her as a powerful new force in science fiction and action cinema.  Over the years, she built on that momentum, starring in the Resident Evil franchise and becoming one of the few women to lead a long-running action series.
Today, Milla remains an influential figure in Hollywood—not only as an actress, but also as a producer, fashion designer, and advocate for representation.  She brings her immigrant background into her work, offering a perspective shaped by culture, resilience, and a deep understanding of what it means to belong in more than one place.
Owning Her Identity, Expanding the Industry
Milla does not shy away from her roots.  She regularly speaks about her experience as an immigrant and child of refugees, and how that journey shaped her career.  Whether she is designing clothing, selecting roles, or raising awareness about humanitarian issues, she uses her platform to build cultural bridges and highlight the value of diverse voices.
By succeeding on her own terms, Milla has helped open the door for other international performers, proving that the American entertainment industry grows stronger with global talent and stories.
Why We Celebrate Milla Jovovich
We celebrate Milla not just for her career longevity, but for her continued impact as an immigrant creator who leads with confidence, originality, and pride in her background.  She shows that success in the United States does not require leaving your identity behind—it means using it to help shape the future.
At Stommes Immigration, we believe that every immigrant journey holds the power to change industries and challenge expectations.  Milla Jovovich continues to remind us that chasing dreams is not only about reaching the top—it is about bringing your full self there.

If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help.  At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes.
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The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.  To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].