We were lucky to catch up with Kim Nguyen recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kim , 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 try to find, in career and in life, the commonalities that connect us. Most of my career has been being the only Vietnamese female on set. That’s what I love about being a storyteller, you’re inviting people to be a part of something, and inviting them to bring their own perspective to it. It’s open and inclusive to everyone.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m a director who works on film and episodic/tv. One of the things I love about my job is that all of my family and friends watch a lot of films and tv, so it’s great to connect on what everyone’s watching. My husband loves documentaries, my MIL Beth loves Action Thrillers, and my mom loves Dancing with the Stars. I also have a lot of friends who are filmmakers so it’s fun to talk shop with them. My friend Seyi and I will talk about how certain films look, my friend Jenny and I will discuss how a limited series made us feel and my sister Kelly and I will laugh over the latest comedies. I can easily strike up, or get absorbed in, conversation in pretty much any setting about film.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Curiosity – it’s what has always led me through life. Confidence – knowing who you are and what you want.
Open-mindedness. There are so many perspectives and ways to connect. Stay open.
My advice to those starting out would be to stay open, have fun and enjoy the ride.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
A few people come to mind. 1. My brother. He’s been with me all my life and fully supports everything I do. 2. My friend Andy Carrigan, who has provided steady support and guidance throughout my entire career. 3. My son who is a constant source of inspiration for me. He is the best, I have learned so much from him. Moki if you are reading this, it is awesome to be your Mom.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimnguyen.net/
- Instagram: @kimonguyen
Image Credits
Joe Arcidiacono, Afshin Shahidi
