Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tiana Pongs. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Tiana , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
I’d say I found a sense of purpose organically— and probably also through self-reflection and some hardship in life. I journaled every morning for many many years and I still do. It’s my free therapy session every morning. I also talked about what matters to me with good friends which made me think more intentionally about my life and my purpose, I also had to learn that life is a journey and not a destination, and what makes my life fulfilling today might change in a few years.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Our world is so divided right now, and I believe, everyone has the power to make an impact in a positive way. Art is a creative way to do so. Movies and television are amazing tools for raising awareness, providing bridges to understanding someone else’s perspectives to deepen understanding of the world and spread ideas that matter. That’s why I act and produce, to use my voice. I want to be a part of the solution.
I produced my first project last year called “Magda”, with Oscar-nominated actress Abigail Breslin. And we are venturing into a socially critical subject, “The Story of Roe v. Wade.” And the struggle of women for more self-determination and personal freedom. I’m now working on my first feature film with a very experienced producer and my good friend Margaret French Issac.
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?
1. Don’t care what other people think, if it feels good to you go for it. Never let other people’s limiting beliefs stop you. 2. Follow your heart and your gut feeling always. Especially for us women in the industry, it is important to follow our gut feelings. If something feels weird really act on it and get out of the situation as fast as possible.
3. The right mindset. Finding the balance between doing your best in an audition and at a job and then being able to let go and move on to other things. The right balance between wanting something and being okay if it doesn’t turn out exactly the way you imagined.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
I’d say they gave me the freedom to pursue whatever career I wanted to explore. I know from my mother that she was forced to take over the family business and she got sick over time, she was not allowed to follow her creative dreams and therefore very supportive towards me and to not influence me into anything specific.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.tianapongs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tianapongs/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TIANA.PONGS/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tianapongs/
Image Credits
Bode Helm
