Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Teia Kane. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Teia, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
My journey towards discovering my purpose and learning to take risks has its roots in my family, particularly my remarkable mother. She wasn’t the type to shy away from life’s adventures. Her story of courage and determination began when she decided to pursue a Ph.D. in psychology after turning 50. But her most inspiring feat was joining Doctors Without Borders at the age of 65, where she served in challenging places like Palestine, Ukraine, and Haiti. Her resilience and empathy left a lasting impression on me and fueled my desire to explore diverse cultures and engage with the world. However, it was a significant moment in my own life that truly pushed me into the world of risks and personal growth. At the age of 19, I remember the day I embarked on a volunteer program in a remote part of Oaxaca, Mexico. It was a small town called Ayoquezco de Aldama, far removed from modern comforts and technology. For the first three weeks, I struggled with homesickness and the unfamiliarity of my surroundings. I slept in a room that doubled as a storage space for corn to feed the family’s animals. Life was simple but challenging. It was during those three months that I discovered my inner strength and resilience.
This journey not only tested my limits but also gave me the confidence to embrace new challenges and take calculated risks, setting the stage for my later adventures and my pursuit of purpose.
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 appreciate the opportunity to share my story and what I’m currently focused on. My journey has been a blend of artistic passion, cultural immersion, and social engagement, all of which have converged into a meaningful and exciting career. I am primarily an artist and filmmaker with a strong background in theater arts, having studied at UCLA’s School of Theater. What truly excites me about my work is the power of storytelling to bridge cultural gaps and shed light on untold stories from around the world.
My brand, in essence, revolves around capturing the essence of different cultures through the lens of film and theater. Whether it’s exploring the rich traditions of Iran, delving into the challenges faced by immigrants in the U.S., or unraveling the narratives of remarkable women changing the world, my work aims to bring these stories to life.
One of the most special aspects of my work is the deep connection it allows me to establish with people from diverse backgrounds. It’s not just about telling their stories; it’s about experiencing their world and bringing that experience to the audience. I believe that through storytelling, we can foster understanding, empathy, and positive change in the world.
As for what’s new, I’m currently working on an emotionally charged project that delves into the harsh reality of children’s immigration camps. It’s a story that needs to be told, shedding light on the struggles faced by young girls separated from their parents while crossing the border of Mexico.
In summary, my career is all about using art, film, and theater as powerful mediums to connect people, cultures, and stories. It’s an exciting and fulfilling journey, and I’m always eager to share my passion and the stories I’ve encountered along the way with a wider audience.
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?
In summary, my advice for those starting their journey is to cultivate resilience, embrace cultural sensitivity and empathy, and sharpen your storytelling and communication skills. These qualities and abilities will not only enrich your personal and professional life but also enable you to connect with people, share meaningful stories, and make a positive impact on the world. Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth. Be flexible in your approach and open to change. Understand that setbacks are not failures but stepping stones toward success. Cultivate resilience by focusing on your goals, maintaining a positive mindset, and learning from every experience.
Working with diverse cultures and communities has required a deep sense of cultural sensitivity and empathy. It’s essential to approach each new environment with an open heart and a willingness to listen and learn from the people you meet. My advice is to actively seek out opportunities for cultural immersion, whether through travel, volunteering, or engaging with different communities. Be a respectful observer, ask questions, and truly understand the perspectives of others. Empathy is a skill that can be honed through genuine connection and understanding.
Storytelling has been the driving force behind my work. The ability to craft compelling narratives and communicate them effectively is paramount. Seek feedback to continually refine your storytelling abilities, but always have the final say, follow your intuition.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to lead by example, and the person who stands out most in this regard is undoubtedly my mother. Her life story is a testament to the extraordinary impact she had on my life and the values she instilled in me. My mother, a woman of incredible resilience and determination, embarked on a journey that left an indelible mark on my heart. She decided to pursue her dream of obtaining a Ph.D. in psychology after the age of 50. This decision, in itself, was a powerful lesson in the pursuit of one’s dreams and the relentless pursuit of knowledge.
But her journey didn’t stop there. What truly left me in awe was her fearless involvement with Doctors Without Borders at the age of 65. This decision led her to serve in some of the world’s most challenging and conflict-ridden zones, including Palestine, Ukraine, and Haiti. Witnessing her resilience, empathy, and unwavering commitment to making the world a better place was nothing short of life-changing.
Her experiences in these war-torn regions ignited my curiosity and courage to immerse myself in diverse cultures and engage wholeheartedly in social causes. It was my mother who planted the seed of empathy, teaching me that our actions can make a difference, no matter how daunting the circumstances may seem.
I recognize that not everyone may have had parents who served as role models, or some may have grown up without parents altogether. To those who find themselves in this situation, I want to offer some advice: seek out someone you admire as a human being and for what they represent, whether it’s a friend, a relative, or a public figure. Look for qualities, values, and actions that resonate with you.
Find that person who embodies the kind of character and purpose you wish to emulate, and take their journey as a direct inspiration. Embrace their lessons and let them guide you in your own path. It’s never too late to find a source of inspiration and set a course for personal growth and positive impact. t It’s never too late to pursue your dreams, make a positive impact, and inspire those around you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: theunicornwife
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/téia-kane-76795a1b8/
- Other: https://vimeo.com/user7349454
Image Credits
profile photo by Gregory Metcalf
