We’re looking forward to introducing you to Charlene Kwan. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Charlene, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I work in the entertainment industry, focusing on animated films. I’m a creative coordinator who develops and shapes a story with the director, screenwriters, and the art team before it goes into the production process.
The two common misunderstandings from amateurs I’ve noticed are: some people still think animation films are just for kids, as if it’s nothing more than talking animals and sing-alongs; and many assume creative work relies only on instinct or random bursts of inspiration.
Let’s start with the “just for kids” idea. Take Pixar’s Soul (2020) as an example, it’s visually interesting and engaging enough to keep a child’s attention—but its themes are deeply philosophical and designed with adults in mind. What makes animation so special is its ability to layer storytelling: it creates a visually engaging surface that’s entertaining for children, while embedding deeper themes that speak directly to adults.
Another major misunderstanding is how people perceive those of us who work in the creative industry. We’re often seen as “artists” who rely purely on instinct or wait for inspiration to strike—similar to the way people might romanticize novelists or songwriters. But that’s not how animation production works, especially from a creative producing perspective. In truth, the process is highly structured, logical, and grounded in clear design thinking. We break down narrative goals, emotional beats, visual tone, and audience experience in very deliberate ways. Personally, I don’t see myself as an “artist” in the traditional or stereotypical sense —I see myself as a designer. Every creative decision is supported by intention, structure, and clarity. It’s this solid foundation allow us to consistently build meaningful and compelling stories—not by chance, but by thoughtful design.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I work in the entertainment industry, specifically in animated feature films, as part of the creative production team at Yi Animation. I participated in the production of I Am What I Am 2 (2024), which explores the challenges traditional Chinese kung fu faces when adapted to the rules and realities of modern combat sports. Currently, I’m focused on the development side — helping to launch new animation projects.
What makes our work exciting is how we combine stylized visuals with deep emotional narratives rooted in real-life experiences. Our goal is not just to entertain, but to spark conversations, emotions, and imagination through animation — a medium that is often underestimated. It’s a privilege to be part of a studio that believes in the power of storytelling and is willing to invest the time, craft, and care it takes to make something meaningful.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What breaks the bonds between people is often a loss of trust. As humans, we have a unique ability to create fiction, which can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, fiction can become deception, causing doubt and division. On the other, it allows us to craft stories that resonate deeply, helping us understand each other’s emotions, hopes, and fears.
Storytelling is one of the most powerful tools we have to restore bonds. Through shared narratives, we create empathy and trust. When we listen and trust a story, it builds empathy and brings people closer. As a creative professional, I see firsthand how stories can create trust and unite diverse people through shared experiences and feelings.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that has held me back most in life is the fear of ambiguity and uncertainty. Not knowing what’s coming next creates anxiety and doubt that can freeze me in place. But over time, I’ve learned that the best way to overcome this fear is through action. Taking steps forward will break the cycle of worry and creates momentum. Now, I embrace uncertainty as part of the my creative process and focus on what I can control: moving ahead.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
One foundational truth I rarely articulate is that many things we believe to be real are actually just abstract ideas created by humans to make sense of the world, and they aren’t real. They don’t exist in the physical world. Success, failure, pride, shame, even what’s considered “normal”—these are just words.
Realizing this helps me not to be controlled by fears or pressures tied to ideas that only exist in our minds. It reminds me to focus on what is truly present and meaningful, rather than being trapped by illusions.
As the saying goes, “It’s not like you’ll lose a piece of flesh.”
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m completely by myself. As an introvert, solitude isn’t loneliness to me—it’s restoration. Whether I’m watching a movie alone in a theater, eating hotpot at a one-person table, or even singing karaoke in a private room by myself, those quiet, personal moments recharge me. For me, peace and energy always come from the inside.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://charlenekwan.com
- Instagram: @kcwcharlene
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlene-cheuk-wai-kwan-306104247
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