Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Eleana Pena

We recently had the chance to connect with Eleana Pena and have shared our conversation below.

Eleana, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
For me, integrity is the foundation of everything; your character, your relationships, your decisions, your purpose. Intelligence can open doors, and energy can keep you moving, but integrity determines how you move and who you become along the way. I’ve seen enough to know that talent and ambition mean nothing if your heart isn’t aligned with truth. Integrity keeps you grounded when emotions fluctuate, opportunities come and go, and people shift. It’s what helps you honor God, honor yourself, and honor others; even when no one is watching. I’ve learned from past seasons throughout my life that peace comes from knowing you chose what was right, not what was easy. So to me, integrity is the standard. Everything else flows from that.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Eleana, an actress, entrepreneur, digital content creator, a model and a mental health and substance-abuse advocate. My work spans acting, film and TV, lifestyle, storytelling, and sharing my personal journey with healing physically, emotionally, and spiritually. What makes my brand unique is the blend of authenticity and purpose. Whether I’m on camera for a role or creating content for my platforms, I lead with transparency and faith. I share real experiences on my journey, personal growth, and day-to-day lifestyle to inspire people to pursue wholeness and confidence in every area of their lives. Right now, I’m focused on expanding my presence in acting and film while continuing to build a space online that empowers people to grow, heal, and walk boldly in who God created them to be.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I believed I had to shrink myself to be accepted. I thought I had to be quiet, agreeable, or ‘perfect’ to be loved or valued. As an adult, through faith, healing, and a lot of inner work, I no longer believe that. I’ve learned that my voice, my presence, and my purpose were never meant to be small. I don’t have to earn worthiness; God already gave it to me. Now I walk in the truth that I am allowed to take up space, to grow, to evolve, and to show up as the full version of who I am.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self, “You are enough, exactly as you are.” I’d remind her that she doesn’t have to prove herself, shrink to fit in, or carry the weight of other people’s expectations. She’s loved, she’s capable, and she’s already on the right path even when there’s moments that don’t feel that way.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I’m committed to helping people fully embrace their calling. This isn’t just a project; it’s a mission rooted in my own journey and faith. I want to create spaces, content, and stories that empower people to step into their God-given identity, overcome cycles that hold them back, and walk boldly in their purpose. It’s a lifelong commitment, and I’m in it for the long haul.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in God’s presence whether that’s during prayer, worship, or simply sitting in silence and letting my spirit settle. I also find peace when I’m taking care of myself, creating, or spending time in environments that feel safe, still, and grounded. Those moments remind me that I’m exactly where I need to be.

Contact Info:

  • Instagram: @eleana.pena
  • Twitter: @itseleana

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