We recently connected with Angela White and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Angela, thanks for sharing your insights with our community today. Part of your success, no doubt, is due to your work ethic and so we’d love if you could open up about where you got your work ethic from?
The foundation of my work ethic was laid by my parents, both educators, who demonstrated the value of diligence and perseverance in our working middle-class family. Their struggles and achievements taught me that to attain anything in life, sheer hard work is paramount. From a young age, I was determined to be financially independent, which led me to run a newspaper route before I even reached the age of 10. Additionally, recognizing my role as an African-American woman, I felt a profound responsibility to pave the way for future generations, to break generational curses, and to establish a legacy of wealth and accomplishment. This drive fueled my academic pursuits, as I dedicated nine rigorous years to secure my Bachelors, Masters, and Juris Doctorate. While this meant deferring my entry into the workforce, it instilled in me discipline and an intensified work ethic. Every sacrifice made was a testament to my belief that relentless effort not only leads to material rewards but also shapes one’s character. The ethos of hard work was initially inculcated in me by my family, and I then further refined it by challenging myself to achieve academically and professionally.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m Angela White, a film and TV producer hailing from New Jersey but now making waves in Los Angeles, California. Back in 1996, while I was still navigating the hallways of law school, my family took our first steps into the entertainment realm by promoting comedy shows in New York City. A year later, we founded Silver Lining Entertainment, a production powerhouse I’m incredibly proud of.
Upon completing my law degree, I delved into talent management and entertainment law, representing comedians. However, it was the magnetic pull of Los Angeles that introduced me to the exhilarating world of production. Fortunate enough to be mentored by seasoned film producers, I discovered my passion for crafting compelling content for cinema and television.
Media, in my view, is a remarkable force. It bridges cultural and generational divides, enabling stories to resonate with global audiences. At Silver Lining Entertainment, we harness this power not just to entertain but to inspire, educate, and drive conversations on pressing social justice issues. From uproarious comedies to profound narratives, we’ve had the privilege of producing over fifteen movies and spearheading a comedy series. Most recently, we’ve ventured into international waters, filming our debut project in West Africa’s Ghana. This is just the beginning of our global journey, as we aim to bring our unique brand of storytelling to audiences everywhere.
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?
1. Tenacity and Persistence: The entertainment industry is notoriously challenging, and the initial steps my family and I took, from promoting comedy shows to establishing Silver Lining Entertainment, required a lot of perseverance. Facing rejection, competition, and setbacks, tenacity kept me moving forward.
Advice: Especially in a harsh industry, you must be prepared for rejection. But remember, each “no” is one step closer to a “yes”. Stay committed to your vision, adapt when necessary, and push through the challenges.
2. Versatility: Wearing different hats, from a student to an entertainment lawyer to a talent manager and eventually a film producer, I needed to be versatile. This adaptability enabled me to understand different facets of the entertainment industry.
Advice: Continuously seek opportunities to learn and expand your skill set. Whether taking a short course, attending workshops, or simply networking, immerse yourself in different areas of your field to gain a broader perspective.
3. Mentorship and Learning: Being under the guidance of experienced film producers was invaluable. It provided me with insights and lessons that would have taken years to learn on my own.
Advice: Seek mentors who are established in your desired field. They can offer not just knowledge but also connections and opportunities. And remember, mentorship is a two-way street; while you learn from them, also consider how you can add value to their endeavors.
Remember, everyone’s journey is unique. The path that worked for one might not work for another. Stay authentic to your vision, be open to learning, and trust in your passion and abilities.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Take a Break: Sometimes, the best thing to do when overwhelmed is to step away from the situation. This can be a short walk, a few minutes of deep breathing, or even a day off, if possible. The change of scenery and pace can help reset your mind.
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: If you’re overwhelmed by a big task or many tasks, break them down into smaller, more manageable parts. Then, focus on one step at a time, making the overall task seem less daunting.
Prioritize: List everything you need to do and prioritize tasks. Determine what needs to be done immediately, what can wait, and what can be delegated. Sometimes, just the act of writing things down can be therapeutic and clarifying.
Seek Support: Talk to someone you trust. This can be a friend, family member, or professional. Sometimes, just verbalizing what you’re feeling can provide relief. They might also offer a fresh perspective or advice on managing your situation.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices, including meditation, can help bring your attention to the present moment, reduce stress, and combat feelings of being overwhelmed.
Limit Distractions: If you’re working or trying to complete tasks, limit potential distractions. This might mean turning off social media notifications, creating a dedicated workspace, or setting specific times to check emails.
Set Boundaries: It’s important to know your limits and set boundaries accordingly. This can relate to work, personal commitments, or even your time on digital devices.
Focus on Self-Care: Engage in activities that relax and rejuvenate you. This can be reading, taking a bath, listening to music, or any other activity that you enjoy.
Reframe Your Thinking: Try to shift your perspective. Instead of thinking, “I have to,” consider thinking, “I get to.” This subtle shift can make tasks feel less like burdens and more like opportunities.
Stay Organized: Keeping your physical space tidy, having a clear schedule, and setting reminders can help reduce feelings of chaos and being overwhelmed.
It’s important to remember that everyone has moments of feeling overwhelmed. The key is to recognize these feelings and have strategies in place to manage and overcome them. If these feelings persist or interfere with daily life, it may be beneficial to seek professional help or counseling.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.msangelawhite.com
- Instagram: @msangelawhite
- Facebook: @msangelawhite
- Linkedin: @msangelawhite
- Twitter: @msangelawhite
- Youtube: @msangelawhite
- Other: www.asilverliningentertainment.com
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