Story by Gareth Kelly
Photos courtesy of Shanna May
Some time ago we introduced you to Zhanna May. Originally from Kazakhstan, May had just finished as runner up in the Mrs. Asia USA contest in 2014. Meeting many people from all over the world and from many different cultures, May was inspired to share some of these and many other stories.
“After doing the pageant, I realized how much fun I had meeting people from other cultures,” said May. “I thought it would be great if I could share some of these experiences with others. That’s when I had the idea of a TV show.”
‘On the planet of Culture – with Zhanna May’ is a half hour TV show produced in conjunction with Santa Maria Community Television and is shown on Charter channel 2 or 25, depending on where you live, as well as on YouTube.
“There are over 150 nationalities living in America,” May said. “There are over 40 just here on the Central Coast. I just feel if we get to know each other more, learn more about each other, the future will be brighter. Becoming familiar with each other and knowing more about each others’ cultures makes us more comfortable with each other, and I think would make for less war.”
It takes May two to three weeks to put each show together. She spends hours researching and investigating the person and culture to be filmed for the show. The first couple of episodes focused on herself and Kazakhstan. An episode about a lady from Cambodia will air soon. Shooting takes place at a TV studio in Santa Maria and takes approximately two to three hours to shoot, most of which is in front of a green screen enabling images and videos to be projected onto the background in post production.
“I have everything,” May said. “I’m very lucky. I have a loving family, and working as a caregiver for the elderly, I have no desire to do any more pageants. I feel the TV show can be more useful. The show is designed to be educational for both children and adults. I’m hoping other stations will eventually take it.”
Always looking for new subjects for the show May would love to hear from people from all backgrounds that would like to be featured. She recognizes some people are shy but assures us she will put you at ease before getting in front of the camera. If you have a story to share she would love to hear from you. Her email address is She can also be reached on her cell at 805-709- 2187
Gareth has never operated in front of a green screen before but he has had problems with screen doors in the past. What new doors are opening for you? Email him at