Interview with Hina Youmiya [Brought to you by AVIOT]

Hina Youmiya: A Rising Star in Voice Acting

Hina Youmiya has become a notable figure in the voice acting industry since she debuted her first significant role in 2021. With her affiliation with Aoni Production, she has experienced a remarkable surge in popularity over the last few years. Hina is not just a voice actress; she is also an engaging radio host and a live concert performer, gracing the covers of various magazines. Her journey is inspiring, and she recently took the time to share insights into her experiences, career growth, and the special connection she feels with her international audience.

A Passion Ignited

Hina’s interest in voice acting was ignited by a simple yet powerful statement from her mother. Although she had long harbored dreams of becoming a voice actress, self-doubt held her back. Thoughts like "Is it too late for me?" and concerns about her parents’ support plagued her. However, her mother’s encouragement served as a turning point. She said, “If you want to go for it, then go for it.” Those words empowered Hina to pursue her aspirations, marking the beginning of her exciting journey in voice acting.

Valuable Experiences at Aoni Production

Reflecting on her five years with Aoni Production, Hina acknowledges the depth of her experiences and the lessons she has learned. Each role and interaction has profoundly impacted her and contributed to her development as an actor. Instead of pinpointing a singular defining moment, Hina cherishes every opportunity and encounter as an irreplaceable part of her journey. This perspective has shaped her understanding of the industry and the artistry involved in bringing characters to life.

Evolving as an Artist

Since her debut, Hina’s approach to her craft has evolved significantly. The dynamic nature of the industry has influenced her methods and perspectives. She has grown to engage with each project differently and has developed a unique way of approaching roles that reflects her current self. Despite these changes, one aspect remains constant: her gratitude for being part of creative works alongside their creators. She views the creators as the "parents" of the characters, and this appreciation remains a cornerstone of her artistic journey.

Finding Her Unique Style

As she progresses in her career, Hina is aware of the distinctive charm she brings to her roles. While she acknowledges that her style as a voice actress is continually evolving, she believes that this progression is a natural part of the artistic journey. Taking on various roles has allowed her to uncover new possibilities within herself, while also letting go of certain aspects that no longer resonate. This ongoing exploration is essential for her growth, as she seeks to refine her craft daily.

Relating to Food-Loving Characters

Many of Hina’s characters share a love for food, such as her role as Omusubi-chan in the AVIOT TE-V1R-HOP earbuds campaign. Interestingly, she does not consciously infuse her personality into her characters. When a role resembles her own traits, she finds it challenging to separate her feelings from those of the character. Conversely, when portraying characters that differ from her, she can construct their personalities from scratch, allowing for a more objective approach. In the case of Omusubi-chan, Hina made a deliberate effort to distance herself from her own personality in order to authentically represent the character.

Creative Studio Habits

When preparing for recordings, Hina avoids establishing strict routines or rituals. She believes that relying on specific habits can create anxiety if she is unable to follow them. Instead, she aims for a natural and fluid approach, allowing her to seamlessly step into her roles. This mindset helps her maintain a sense of calm and focus, enabling her to deliver her best performances.

Musical Aspirations

Many of the characters Hina has voiced possess musical elements, prompting questions about her own musical ambitions. She expresses gratitude for the diverse opportunities she has encountered thus far and invests considerable effort into her performances, encompassing not just voice acting but also singing and dancing. Her goal is to create a memorable experience for her audience, bringing characters to life through dynamic stage presentations. While time constraints limit her ability to pursue music extensively, she remains hopeful about future opportunities that allow her to explore this passion further.

Connecting with Audiences through Radio

Hina has also established a strong connection with her fans through her role as the host of the HOOOOPE! radio show, which has become a beloved fixture for listeners on Tuesday evenings. She feels immense gratitude for the support she receives from her audience, which fuels her desire to spread joy through her program. Hina aims to bring happiness into the lives of her listeners, and she cherishes the consistent connection she has built with them.

A Message to Fans

Hina’s journey has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her recognition as the top voice actress of the Winter 2024 Anime Season and her ranking among the top five voice actresses of the year in various awards. She is deeply touched by this acknowledgment, especially coming from international fans. Despite language barriers and geographical differences, she emphasizes that the emotions evoked by stories are universal. This shared experience provides her with great happiness, reinforcing the connection she feels with her audience.

Embracing Universal Emotions

In her message to fans, Hina highlights the universality of emotions despite the diversity of languages and cultures. She believes that the feelings of love and appreciation for beloved works are precious and transcend boundaries. Hina encourages her fans to continue exploring new stories that resonate with them, hoping that these experiences enrich their lives and bring them joy.

In conclusion, Hina Youmiya’s journey from aspiring voice actress to a celebrated figure in the industry embodies perseverance, passion, and a genuine connection with her audience. Her dedication to her craft and her heartfelt appreciation for her fans are evident in every aspect of her work. As she continues to evolve and grow, there is no doubt that Hina will leave an indelible mark on the world of voice acting and beyond.