The Interview Q&A

Where are you based out of?

“Jacksonville, FL”

What role do you typically play on set?

“Director”

How long have you been working in the film industry? Where did you get your start?

“I've been working for about 7 years on independent projects.”

Who is your biggest inspiration? What have they taught you?

“I've been working in the film industry, specifically, for about 4 years now. I broke into the world of TV/film production years ago as the choreographer of a music video for The Manic Street Preaches. The video was "Let Robison Sing." After that first gig, I signed on to do whatever I could find on the production side, working in NYC and LA.”

Who is your biggest inspiration? What have they taught you?

“I am deeply inspired by growing up with four generations of family under one roof. Those who've come before me have undoubtedly informed my life's journey. Their stories of fleeing war, immigration, the Depression, fighting for civil and humanitarian rights - working for a kinder, more just world - are part of my DNA. They taught me that a strong work ethic is invaluable and that although life is sometimes unbearable, it can also be full of love and beauty.”

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

“Pretty simple - asking questions and listening inspires me. While I'm here and alive, I want to learn everything I can about the human condition and the power of relationship; why people think and feel the way they do - or don't. I'm interested in building bridges between the like and unlike...I care about the progress of humankind and want to be a part of the solution. Now more than ever, audiences are relying on storytellers/filmmakers to produce work that evokes deep feelings and stimulates the senses. I'm excited to explore narratives in inventive ways and unexpected stories through new media.”

What are some of the biggest things you’ve accomplished in your career so far?

“The first thing I'll acknowledge is that I've accomplished balancing a family and a career simultaneously. I want people, especially women, to know that filmmaking isn't about ignoring life, it's about living it fully - sometimes in stages - but it's possible.

Some of the most meaningful projects I've created thus far include DREAMBODY, a masterful choreographic work way ahead of it's time - I created and originally set DREAMBODY on the Infinity Dance Theater in NYC - a non-traditional dance company committed to expanding the boundaries of dance by featuring dancers with and without disabilities. I am now developing a film/TV series where dancers of different abilities (both visible and invisible) who remount this work - redefining the definition of a 'dream body' and beauty itself.

I'm also very proud of our efforts with the making of the film "Mandy's Voice." This is amongst the first films in the USA to tell the story of an a non-verbal (or differently verbal) teen on the spectrum through authentic casting. Our crew and producing team also reflects the diversity of our real-life world with individuals who are neuro diverse and on the spectrum.”

Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now? (No dream is too big!)

“LOL, this industry moves so quickly it's almost fool-hearted to think one can predict all that will evolve in just 5 years...who knows what "film" or "TV" will actually look like? In 5 years I'll be healthy, happy and thriving as a writer-director working with incredible collaborators worldwide, entertaining through all forms of storytelling on screens and platforms known and yet unknown. All of this and better than what I can imagine today!”

If you had one piece of advice for a woman who wants to get started in the film industry what it would be?

“Take classes in Business Management and in Law for the Arts in addition to honing your creative skills. Be kind, clear with your intentions and work hard. Support others as you would like to be supported. Remember to have fun :)”