We recently connected with Arina Vongvilay and have shared our conversation below.
Arina, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
I believe that my resilience and hardworking mindset have led me to become very successful in the pathways I have chosen. Being first-generation, I keep with myself a level of pride and understanding for previous generations who have made sacrifices and decisions that eventually led me to where I am today. With myself being of Lao descent, I remember to appreciate what I can do in such an incredible position of privilege to have opportunities to be able to pursue a higher level of education and to be able to explore my creativity and passions in life without a drawback.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Throughout my life, I have always found myself being driven by perseverance, curiosity, and creativity in many different fields, never letting myself stay in one box. From my academics, by achieving both my high school diploma and associate degree in science simultaneously, to current day, where I graduated with a Bachelor’s in fashion merchandising to develop and enhance my love of storytelling and challenging myself both academically and creatively.
In my current professional career, I am focused on analytical work and data, but I always have a heart for the beauty of creativity. I’ve been passionate throughout my whole life about visual narratives and curated experiences that allow each other to connect and to overall use that strategy to create something impactful and everlasting.
For my future, I am excited to develop myself both in my personal and professional life by expanding my own creative legacy-whether it’s launching my own branded content, contributing to a collaborative fashion project, or joining forces with innovative teams that share my vision. I want people to know that I’m not just here to follow trends—I’m here to help shape them.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I believe that one of the most important qualities that was the most impactful to me personally would be resilience. Throughout my life, I have worked hard and tiring to be in the position that I am today. Even though it was difficult, I am proud of myself and would do it again to learn how strong I can be when it comes down to my last wire. From being a barista, serving tables, then to a ballet assistant- I have done it all and more before hand, but being able to come out the other side, stronger than ever, is a power and quality that cannot be replicated.
Along with that, adaptability is another important quality. The ability to quickly take action and being able to be multifaceted can be an incredible strength in the long run, knowing that wherever you are and whatever you’re doing, you know that you can find a way to the best possible solution.
My last quality would have to be time management. During my journey, I had to juggle so many things at once, and trying my best to get a grip on everything was more than difficult, but understanding that the value of time needs to be considered will make you reflect on things differently, and understanding where your priorities lie in the end.
My overall advice is to understand that the journey may be difficult and tiring, but in the end, it will all be worth it because then one day you will actually look back on yourself and become proud of what you were able to do and what has resulted because of it.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The understanding of their sacrifices that was able to allowed me to live the life I can today. The idea of every decision, every movement, every smile, every tear, has eventually led up to me being born and given a life that is full of opportunity and hope. I appreciate the hard work and effort it took to be here and hope to shine brightly for all of us. I take pride in knowing that everything that I do is not only a reflection of myself but also of my beautiful parents, who have stood by me from beginning to end.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://arinavongvilayfashion.site/home
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arinavongfashion/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arina-vongvilay-566634242/
Image Credits
Taylor Akhom
Daniel Brown
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
