We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mengeh Windlander. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mengeh below.
Hi Mengeh, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Impostor syndrome is definitely something I’m dealing with on a daily basis since recently entering the industry professionally. Stepping into auditions, rehearsals or even classes with people who I have looked up to forever or with people who have mentored or trained me has felt extremely surreal at times. At the same time, it is also a reminder that getting to share space as equals is also a direct reflection of all the hard work I have put in to be there, that I do deserve to be there and that I am one step closer to my goals. An extremely important part to getting to where you want to be is surrounding yourself with the right people and environments that can help you grow, shape and lead you in the right direction, so moments like that, despite them feeling frightening and surreal, are also very precious moments. Believing you have every right to be there, being unapologetically you and just taking in the moment judgement free can help dim those thoughts that you somehow feel out of place or don’t belong. Remembering your value and the knowledge you can bring as well as what others can inspire and teach you, but also remembering to be kind and to give yourself grace is so important and will go a long way battling through this career.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
My Journey started with a 4-year old girl dancing around the house, in love with storytelling and performing for family and relatives every chance she got. For as long as I can remember, music, dance and art in general have been a huge part of my childhood and how I grew up. From attending a Waldorf school (a heavily creative driven school with an emphasis on cultivating children’s emotional lives and imagination) all through elementary to attending a performing art high school as well as college – being immersed in the arts is something I’ve been exposed to my whole life. Upon graduating with a BFA in performing arts, I am currently paving my way through the commercial realm of the industry. So far, in my artistic career, I have had a beautiful year when I have starred and supported in a variety of features – music videos, live stage productions & performances and commercials. What’s most exciting and special about these opportunities is being able to fully immerse yourself in what you love and wholeheartedly are passionate about. You get to bring someone’s vision to life with your ability and talent and have the best time doing so. Being able to pursue this career is a dream come true.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Starting with patience, which I think has been an important quality for me in many aspects. Being patient with where I’m at in my own journey and not comparing my success or losses with others. Patience with my body when dealing with injuries or adjustments – remembering that my body is my instrument and needs to be treated as such for my own longevity and health. Patience with my thoughts and emotions – good or bad. Patience with others and all that surrounds me – unlearning, trying to control what is outside my proximity.
What next comes to mind is curiosity, which I believe goes hand in hand with taking risks. Ask the questions and be open to exploring the possibilities that come with it. There is so much to learn. Lastly, I believe resilience is an important tool to keep under your belt. This career isn’t easy, but having the strength to carry through despite what obstacles come your way, will keep you on track towards your dreams.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing was to just be there for me in every shape or form to their best ability. Having my parents support me from the start, walking me to my dance classes and proudly cheering me on at my dance recitals, showing me how proud they were is one of the reasons I am where I am today. I lost my dad to cancer when I was 11. Not being able to share my success and achievements today with him is painful in a way – he only got to see the little girl dreaming of what the adult I am actually accomplishing and experiencing today. I know he would be just as proud of the little girl fighting for her dreams then, as the woman on her way pursing them now. Which brings me to my mom, my hero and my forever biggest supporter. She has been there since day one, cheering me on through thick and thin, pushing me to be my best self. When I wanted to quit, she told me no and to keep going. When I didn’t believe I could do it anymore, she dried my tears and showed me I could. Forever grateful to have a mother like her and the support I had entering this career.
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Image Credits
Yancy Perez
Vince Trupsin
Jocelyn Campbell
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