We recently connected with Fayna Sanchez and have shared our conversation below.
Fayna, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
“What doesn’t kill you makes you..weird at parties” or something like that. My resilience is basically fueled by a mix of unwavering stubbornness, a punk rock attitude, and the firm belief that life is just a series of plot twists in my very own dark comedy. If I can laugh my way through the absurdity and focus on gratitude, I’ll not only survive the chaos, but learn to adapt and bounce back stronger. If life’s the scriptwriter, I’m just here trying to steal the show with a resilient grin, and a couple of cool scars.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a Los Angeles based actor and filmmaker, focusing on independent film and theatre. I love the challenge of a dynamic and multifaceted role in the industry. It involves not only honing my craft in front of the camera but also navigating the intricacies of production behind the scenes. As an independent filmmaker, I have the freedom to choose projects that align with my artistic vision and values, allowing me to bring diverse stories to life. Simultaneously wearing the producer’s hat empowers me to shape the creative process from conception to completion, fostering a hands-on approach that I hope resonates with audiences. It’s a process that requires flexibility, resourcefulness, and a genuine love for storytelling. Each project becomes proof of the power of teamwork and shared creativity – not money.
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?
Surround yourself with people who are smarter and more experienced than you – find a shadowing/internship program or lend a hand on your friend’s project. Learning from those who’ve been around the block has been my secret weapon for growth, a roadmap through challenges and offering insights and perspectives that I may not have considered otherwise.
Being willing to fail is critical. I am a recovering perfectionist and being open to the idea of failing has been a game-changer in my life. Creativity thrives on exploration, experimentation, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Fear of failure paralyzes creativity. The sooner you learn this, the sooner you’ll be set free!
In the fast-paced world of the film industry, adaptability is not just a valuable skill – it’s sure fire way to thrive. Productions are unpredictable, and circumstances can change at the drop of a hat. Being adaptable means rolling with the punches, adjusting to new challenges, and finding creative solutions on the fly. One of the reasons I love this artform is because every project brings its unique set of challenges inside an ever-evolving landscape. It’s like tackling the same mountain, but every climb is a new adventure, demanding you to rediscover the ropes all over again. As the great David Bowie says, “If you feel safe in the area you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area.”
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’m always open to new collaborations and partnerships! I’m particularly interested in working with female identifying or non-binary folks who share a passion for independent productions. As a socially conscious actor & producer, I consider my role beyond the stage and screen as an opportunity to advocate for positive change. It’s not just about making content; it’s about using our voices to address pressing social issues, amplify marginalized voices, and spark meaningful conversations. If you’re reading this and the idea of collaboration sparks your interest, feel free to connect with me through Instagram or my website!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.faynasanchez.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fayna.bo.byna/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fayna-sanchez/
Image Credits
Meg Wachter, Lisa Kelley Remerowski, David Muller
