Meet LaChelle Chrysanne

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful LaChelle Chrysanne a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi LaChelle, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

Growing up just outside of Minneapolis, MN, where I was often the minority, prepared me well for being the only one in the room who looked like me. I’ve learned to be very adaptable, which is essential in my field, where I encounter a lot of different personalities and sometimes big egos. Being approachable and friendly helps build trust and rapport while maintaining a level of professionalism that commands respect. Communication is also key, and I’ve learned to be extra measured in how I express myself. This means being clear, concise, and considerate, ensuring that my contributions are valued and that I’m seen as reliable and competent. By being mindful of my words and actively listening, I create a respectful and positive environment. These experiences have given me the confidence to walk into any room and know my worth. I’m not afraid to assert myself when necessary, but I always do so with respect for others’ viewpoints. I understand the importance of standing firm in my ideas while remaining open to feedback and collaboration.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I’m a writer-director deeply invested in weaving authentic narratives that resonate with audiences profoundly. My journey in storytelling took a significant leap with the release of my debut short film, “One of The Guys,” which premiered last year at the prestigious Micheaux Film Festival in LA. The experience of collaborating with talented actors, crafting a timely and nuanced storyline, and bringing my vision to life on screen was nothing short of exhilarating.

What excites me most about my work is the opportunity to delve into the human experience, exploring themes that are both universal and deeply personal. I’m committed to crafting narratives that reflect the diverse tapestry of our world while shedding light on perspectives often overlooked in mainstream media.

In addition to my filmmaking endeavors, I curate a vibrant community through my Substack newsletter, “LaChelle Rising.” Here, I share personal essays, cultural critiques, and recommendations spanning film, TV, music, and literature. Building this platform has been an immensely rewarding journey, allowing me to engage with like-minded individuals passionate about storytelling and cultural discourse.

Looking ahead, I’m eager to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new storytelling avenues. Whether through upcoming film projects, expanding the reach of “LaChelle Rising,” or engaging in thought-provoking conversations with fellow creatives, I’m committed to fostering spaces where authentic voices can thrive.

Stay tuned for exciting updates on future projects, events, and collaborations—I can’t wait to embark on this journey with you all.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey, I can pinpoint three qualities that have been absolutely instrumental in my growth and success:

Taking Risks: One of the most impactful decisions I’ve made was to bet on myself and take risks. Stepping out on faith and daring to pursue my creative ambitions, even when the path seemed uncertain, has opened doors I never imagined possible. My advice to those starting their journey is to embrace the discomfort of uncertainty and take calculated risks. Trust in your abilities and have faith in your vision. It’s often those bold leaps that lead to the most significant opportunities and growth.

Diversifying Skills: In today’s rapidly evolving creative landscape, having a diverse skill set is invaluable. Being proficient in various creative disciplines has allowed me to adapt and pivot seamlessly, regardless of the industry I find myself in. My advice to newcomers is to cultivate a robust set of skills that complement your primary craft. Whether it’s learning new software, honing your writing abilities, or expanding your technical knowledge, diversifying your skill set enhances your versatility and opens up a world of opportunities.

Determination: Throughout my journey, determination has been my guiding force. It’s what propels me forward in the face of adversity, rejection, and uncertainty. While motivation may ebb and flow, determination is unwavering. It’s the relentless drive to keep pushing forward, to stay grounded in your purpose, and to remind yourself why you embarked on this journey in the first place. My advice to those just starting out is to cultivate a mindset of determination. Stay focused on your goals, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and never lose sight of your “why.”

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

Finding funding for my film projects! The film industry is constantly in flux, and lately, it has felt precarious. I’ve been doing the work of applying for grants and saving my funds, but it is slim pickings out here. I’ve been using this time to build my audience via my Substack newsletter and hone my directorial skills by taking workshops and courses so that when the time comes to finally make something again, I’ll be ready to go with an audience ready to cheer me on.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lachellechrysanne.co
• Instagram: @lachellerising
• Other: https://lachellerising.substack.com/

Image Credits

Yekaterina Gyadu https://www.ygyadu.com/