We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sheena Gao a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sheena, thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.
My optimism comes from a deep inner knowing that everything is temporary—both the pain and the joy—so we might as well live it fully and beautifully. I remind myself often: we’re only on this planet for a short while, so why not make the most of it? I choose to travel endlessly, laugh loudly with like-minded friends, and pour love into the animals, the people, and the world around me. Being surrounded by compassionate souls who share the same values keeps my spirit lifted. And at the heart of it all, I believe in transformation—no matter how dark the moment, there’s always light waiting to break through.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a creative soul—a musician, fashion stylist, artist, and storyteller at heart. My professional journey has taken me across the globe, from launching my fashion label International Citizen, to styling for Selena Gomez’s music video, to performing alongside legendary violinist Itzhak Perlman. I’ve built a life and career that weave together my deepest passions: fashion, music, and compassionate, conscious living.
Right now, I’m focused on projects that merge artistic expression with ethical values—whether it’s performing with the V3 Classical Trio, creating soul-driven digital content, or partnering with brands that champion sustainability, veganism, and global unity. My brand reflects who I am: a world traveler, a nature lover, and someone who believes creativity can be a force for transformation.
What excites me most is art’s ability to connect, heal, and awaken. Whether I’m styling a shoot or playing my violin, I see each creative act as an opportunity to ignite emotion and remind people of what truly matters—kindness, beauty, and connection.
Above all, everything I create is rooted in love—for animals, for humanity, and for this incredible, fleeting world we all share.
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?
Looking back, four qualities that have truly shaped my journey are:
1. Resilience – The creative path is full of detours, rejections, and reinventions. Staying grounded through the highs and lows—and trusting that every challenge carries a lesson—has been essential. I’ve learned to let setbacks deepen my strength rather than derail my vision.
2. Curiosity and Authenticity – I’ve always been hungry to learn—about cultures, people, art forms, and the deeper meaning behind things. Curiosity has kept my creativity alive and ever-evolving. And while I continue to grow and explore, I never lose sight of my core. In a world that often pressures us to fit into trends or expectations, staying true to my voice has been everything. Authenticity is the soul of everything I create.
3. Love and Compassion – For animals, people, the planet—and myself. Compassion has guided my choices in art, in lifestyle, and in every collaboration. It grounds my work in purpose and heart, and reminds me that creativity is not just about expression—it’s about connection, healing, and care. Love and compassion are the compass that guide my journey.
My advice to anyone early in their journey:
Stay grounded in your truth. Don’t be afraid to evolve, but never compromise your core values. Be resilient in the face of doubt, and let your curiosity lead you to unexpected magic. Most of all—be kind to yourself along the way. Growth takes time, but every step is part of your unique masterpiece.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
My mother is a professor and my father a renowned architect in China. From a young age, they led by example—traveling the world and filling our home with issues of National Geographic. I was mesmerized by the vivid images and stories from faraway places. It awakened my imagination and planted a deep desire in me to explore the world beyond my borders.
After earning my BFA in violin performance, I was set to marry my childhood love. But my parents encouraged me to take a leap—to pursue my master’s degree across the ocean, in the United States. That single decision changed the entire trajectory of my life. It allowed me to see the world through a new lens—politically, artistically, and spiritually.
Their support didn’t just expand my opportunities—it expanded my soul. That’s why I always encourage young people to live abroad at least once in their lives. Immersing yourself in a different culture challenges your assumptions, deepens your empathy, and broadens your understanding of beauty, struggle, and connection.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sheenagao.com
- Instagram: @sheenasworld, @icproductionsofficial, @sheena_animal_defender, @internationalcitizen
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sheenasworld
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheenagao
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sheenagao
- Yelp: Sheena G. West Hollywood CA
Image Credits
All images by iCitizen Digital Intelligence
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