Meet Terence Shaun McGovern, Artist and Model

Terence Shaun "T-Shaun" McGovern is a 21 year old artist/model. His music style mainly consists of R&B and hip-hop, and he writes, records, and engineers all of his songs. He continuously works at his music to improve his skills as an artist. Music has gotten T-Shaun through many difficulties, and makes him feel full of life, meaning, and purpose. From talent shows to open mic nights, he has performed in Santa Ana, Costa Mesa, and Hollywood.

1. When did you first get into writing your own music?

About a year ago I started getting into it. Collaborating with other artists has helped me get better. And I feel the more and more you write, the better you get.

2. What does engineering and producing your own work add to your music?

It lets you have more control over your music, and making it the way you want it to sound. A lot of engineers and producers have different styles, and sometimes they won't fit you. Personally I like to do it myself because I know it will come out the best it can.

3. What inspired you to move from New Jersey to California?

Change, a lot of people are afraid of it but I think it's crucial if you want to succeed. But I wanted to be close to the entertainment industry center. The weather isn't so bad here either.

4. What projects are you currently working on?

I have been practicing a lot of acoustic songs for live shows. Also I have some music on the back burner. At this point in time I'm waiting to find the right team to help me with my album.

5. Do you have any dream projects you'd especially love to be able to do?

To have a legit album the world can hear. Working with all professional people that are the best at what they do helping bring out the best me possible. I'd love to collaborate with Lil Wayne, Jay Z, Drake, Nikki Minaj, and many more.

Thanks, T-Shaun!

Meet Justin Michael Woods, Designer of Forgotten Citizen

Justin Michael Woods is an actor, writer, model, TV producer, and now fashion designer. His active lifestyle fashion brand, Forgotten Citizen, is making its debut this year at New York Fashion Week. Justin is also an engineer and a military veteran, and Forgotten Citizen expresses his beliefs toward the importance of the United States doing more for its veterans. Learn more about Justin and Forgotten Citizen by clicking here.

1. What made you decide to create your own fashion line?

I've always been a big guy. I have thick legs and a booty. I got tired of always having to squeeze my body into sizes that never properly fit my body type and did absolutely nothing for my frame. I'm big but I have an athletic build.

2. Where do you find the inspiration for the clothing that makes up Forgotten Citizen?

Forgotten Citizen is extremely dark and edgy. You will find minimal bright colors here. It's for the most part, monochrome. Black/Grey/Off White. My inspiration comes from the 1920s with a touch of The Addams Family.

3. How do you balance your work in acting and directing with your work in fashion?

In between takes or while on my lunch break on set, I find/make the time to sketch and design. I've even gone as far as to bring my portable hand sewing machine to set. After 15-18 hours on set, I walk out with either a new design concept or a full article of clothing to add to my collection. To answer your question, I'd say I am an expert at time management.

4. What are some TV and movie projects we'll be seeing you in soon?

You can see me in two upcoming episodes of NBC's Shades of Blue starring Jennifer Lopez and Ray Liotta. I just wrapped my scenes on Madame Secretary, The Good Wife, Limitless, and Daredevil. Recently, I wrapped the Clint Eastwood-directed feature film Sully starring Tom Hanks, Aaron Eckhart, and Laura Linney. I'll also be appearking in How To Be Single and the two films I'm producing thru my entertainment company, Stone Wolf Entertainment, The Legacy of Cain and The Reunion.

5. Looking ahead, what are your long-term plans for Forgotten Citizen?

I see my brand on the set of major motion pictures. I'd love to be a costume designer for network television shows and major motion pictures. But more importantly, I want ALL body types to feel sexy and comfortable in my designs. I'd love for Forgotten Citizen to become a household name. I believe each and every one of us is sexy in our own unique individual way.

Thanks, Justin!

Meet Kimberly Fisher, Writer and Entrepreneur

Kimberly Fisher is former model and actress. She is the founder of Jetsetera.net and LuxeSoul.com, and she is a busy lifestyle writer, media personality, and internet entrepreneur.

1. How did you first become interested in blogging?

I have always had a love for reading and writing, and I was offered a column when I was modeling entitled "Ask the Model." From there I read everything I could on freelance writing, and just starting pitching different publications. In 2008 I started Jetsetera as a way for friends and family to keep track of me while I was traveling the world, and it eventually turned into what it is today: a curated luxury travel blog with a focus on lifestyle.

2. What are some of your favorite topics to write about?

Travel is always a favorite topic, but I tend to also cover beauty, fashion, and eco-friendly living.

3. In building your websites, what are your personal guidelines for creating content that catches the interest of readers?

With so many different blogs out there, it is hard to get noticed. You have be uniquely you. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and speak your voice. Also, write about something you are passionate about--it won't be work if it is something you enjoy doing every day.

4. What are some things we can do to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle while also being mindful of the environment and sustainability?

There are so many ways to give back. You can mix entertaining with giving back by attending charity event, or buy luxury clothes and goods that give back and support a community or a cause in some way. Even choosing hair, makeup, or skin products that are not only good for the environment, but are better for you. I have also seen a huge jump in sustainable and eco-friendly travel over the past few years.

5. What projects do you hope to pursue in the next year or so?

I am looking at branching back into hosting with the development of video and online shows for both Jetsetera and LuxeSoul, as well as some other projects and collaborations.

Thanks, Kimberly!

Meet Cassandra, Makeup Artist

Cassandra M.u.a. (make-up artistry) was nominated as makeup artist of the year for Washington state in 2014. She has recently taken on global representation by agencies based in Dubai, landing her jobs in Qatar working for top brands like Bvlgari. She also does beauty and bridal work in Seattle and will be available for bookings in Seattle this September. Cassandra is an artist in every aspect of her life. She is currently in Africa working as a private stylist for clients on the European Golf tour.

Follow Cassandra on Twitter to keep up with her work and her travels.

1. How did you first become interested in a career as a makeup artist?

Watching my mom apply blue eyeliner, mascara and a little powder was enough to get me interested in makeup at a young age! I remember going to the grocery store when I was 5 or 6 and running to the makeup isle to try different products! I have loved makeup for as long as I remember and it has translated beautifully into my life today!

2. What helped you to learn your craft as an artist and to develop your own unique style?

Back when I was young, YouTube and facebook didn't exist so I turned to reading beauty magazines. My older cousin, Crystal also impacted me. She was a beautiful cheerleader a few years ahead of me and eventually worked at Sephora where, in my teens brought me and my friends samples of product to try. My mom always supported my love for makeup and fashion and surprised me by buying me beauty and celebrity styling.. I still have them to this day! Her and I also used to make beaded bracelets and necklaces and sold them for .50 or $1 so we could buy new beads each week!

3. How does your experience as a print model inform your work as a makeup artist?

My work as a model came as second nature as I was really into photography and being in front of the camera. One of my earliest memories of this was with a friend named Kim, she came over and we did our hair, makeup and tried on different clothes.. We even created backdrops and used props for our "photoshoot" then took photos of each other posing.. Back then we used disposable cameras so we weren't even sure how the photos would look until a week later.. But it was a true passion of mine that has grown into several business ventures and I'm glad my mom bought me all of those cameras back then!

4. Would you tell us about some of the work you do overseas and how it compares to the work you do in the Seattle area?

My work overseas is more commercial, working for bigger companies like Bvlgari with the help of my agents based in Dubai. In Seattle my work tends to be very personal and creative, for instance I do maternity, newborn, senior and family portrait photography and styling a few weddings each summer as well. I think this is because I grew up in Washington and people feel comfortable with me on that level, plus my prices drop dramatically when I'm home because I like to give back to my community. In the past we have done charity shoots; for example last time I was home we held a day for single parents with newborns/young children so their parents could have professional photos of their little ones!

5. What are some of your favorite projects that you've worked on so far?

I think my all time favorite gig was working with Rym Ghazali overseas in Algeria and Dubai. As head stylist to the production I got to choose my own assistant makeup artist, BTS photographer and hairstylist, which were all came together from my contacts in Dubai. I really loved the fast pace styling of working on a reality TV show because it kept me on my toes and I got to work with a 20 man crew 12 hours a day! Also, I really love weddings..again, it is a very hectic environment which I tend to handle very well as I work very well under pressure! I think that anything involving a little adrenaline gets me creating some of my best work! The last big gig I organized in Seattle was a 30 person crew of my own makeup artist & hair team, 10 models, a airbrush artist and fashion designer for RAW, which led to my Makeup Artist of the year 2014 nomination!

Thanks, Cassandra!

Meet Andre' Stewart of Ardané, a Clothing Line

Ardané is a privately held company that all started with a simple idea: design fresh, high-quality, unique items. The company's CEO, Andre' Stewart, has been working in fashion and entertainment for 14 years, from runway modeling to acting, which all goes hand and hand with fashion (which is how Ardané came about!). Keep up with Ardané on Instagram and Twitter.

1. Do you design the items in your collection yourself, or do you collaborate with designers?

Well, let me start by saying I'm definitely no Photoshop or Illustrator guru, but I do have an eye for design. Some I have designed myself, and some I have been fortunate enough to be able to collaborate with some great designers, but on every design I have had my input on what I think needs to be changed, added, or taken away to get us the finished product. I will say sometimes it is challenging having a great idea in your mind and having someone else try to create it and have it done the way you envision it.

2. Why does Ardané specialize in t-shirts, tops, hats, etc?

The reason I chose T-shirts, tops, hats, and etc is because with a lot of the new designs I saw coming out, none seemed to be unique, and the quality wasn't great in my opinion. The way we come up with our designs and choosing our fabric is strictly by what our customers suggest, and that's how we differentiate ourselves from a lot of other brands. I also wanted to create something people could do everything in, like wear the same shirt out to dinner, at an upscale lounge, or to the park to play basketball in and never once get looked at like what are they wearing?? That's why we choose the type of designs and the style of shirts we do.

Along with that, I know everything starts with branding. I'm building a brand, not only through clothing, but with our service, shipping, social media presence, local events etc. We also knew starting with those options is the easiest way to break into the clothing industry and generate the buzz and income needed to branch out into other product lines without expending too much of your own capital in the building and growth process. It will also establish a brand-loyal customer base, and that's what any business needs to be successful, especially in this industry. As with any brand you need those consistently loyal repeat customers who will buy from you just because of the name. A brand-insistent customer is what we are trying to develop.

3. I noticed that Ardané will debut a denim collection soon. What else can we expect to see on ardaneworldwide.com over the next year or so?

Yes, we are looking to release the denim collection soon; it is in the developmental stages but it's going to be amazing stuff, great quality and price which is hard to find with denim. As for what's to come, we hope that people stay connected with us through social media, because what we try to do as often as possible is let our customers dictate what we release or do next. At the end of the day, we want them to be happy and become that brand-insistent customer I mentioned earlier. Let me ask, would you want to be a part of creating your next piece of clothing you were going to buy? That's what Ardané is about. So to answer that, you have to stay connected to see what's coming next.

4. Would you tell us a little bit about how Ardané helps by contributing to Autism-related charities?

Autism is a very close to home reality for me; my niece was diagnosed with Autism when she was three years old, and I have two friends who have kids with Autism as well. I really don't think people understand what it is or know how expensive it is to care for a child with Autism and also the magnitude of Autism. ASA estimates it is $3.5 million to $5 million lifetime cost just to care for a child. With that being said, we have an Autism collection that continues every season, and all the proceeds from the collection go to different Autism charities in different states. We also donate a portion of all of our proceeds to Autism charities as well. We have done multiple fundraisers and events to raise funds and awareness for Autism and will continue to do so until people are really aware.

5. What has been your experience so far in starting a clothing line, and how has it been similar and different to your career in modeling?

Starting Ardané has been an amazing journey. It's not easy by faaaar, but I wouldn't want to do anything different than continue building the brand. It's hard to explain the feeling you get when you see someone wearing something you created or someone you don't know giving you a compliment about what you are aspiring to do. It's the same with the modeling career. To turn a page and see yourself in a magazine or on the side of a bus, billboard, or commercial, it's like, wow I'm on the side of a bus! How many people can say that, but with both it's all about consistency and determination. Don't follow your dreams; chase them--that's my motto.

Thanks, Andre'!

Introducing M Models, a Talent Agency in Toronto

If you're interested in learning about how a talent agency works and the different jobs that clients find with the help of their agency, check out the blog for M Models, a talent agency in Toronto.

M Models helps models and actors find work in print advertising, principal acting, and more. They work with talent of all ages, including young children. They represent clients in Canada and North America as well as internationally.

What I like about the agency's blog is that you get a concrete idea of the kinds of jobs that models and actors find through the agency. You also get to see a lot of different headshots and photos, which can be useful if you're looking to update your own portfolio and want some ideas for effective portraits to accentuate your best attributes.

Recent blog posts feature talent represented by M Models who have landed jobs with TSN (The Sports Network), a music video for the band Royal Tusk, a TV commercial for an event called BuskerFest, and a commercial for a dating service called Lavalife. Another post gives a detailed profile of two new clients recently signed to M Models who had previously appeared on The Amazing Race Canada.

Check out M Models' blog if you want to keep up with the latest from a growing talent agency in Toronto.

Meet Liv Kirby, Actor, Dancer, and Model

Liv Kirby was born in Queensland, Australia and was brought up in Sydney and Melbourne. Liv began acting classes at age 12 at the National Theatre in the heart of Melbourne.

From acting Liv then started exploring the world of dance, and by age 15 she was dancing professionally in renowned hip hop crews situated in Melbourne. In 2012 Liv received her Diploma of Modeling and Business of Modeling from the Model Academy and since has been involved in many photo shoots as well as had the opportunity to walk for L'Oreal.

In July 2012 Liv made the move to the United States to take part in the Hollywood Immersive program at Margie Haber Studios in L.A. She then found her love for New York and relocated there. Since her move, she has been undertaking training in Musical Theatre and will be graduating from New York Film Academy in February which will take her onto her next chapter.

1. How did you first become interested in acting?

I first began acting classes at age 12, and at that time what drew me to acting were films I had seen and actresses who were around my age, such as Dakota Fanning--I really admired her talent and career because she could give such influential performances at such a young age, which gave me insight that this could be something I could do. I wasn't really introduced to the theatre till I was around 14. So I enrolled in acting for film classes first and then later also enrolled in acting for the stage.

I found acting as a way to express myself. When I was younger, I was painfully shy. I wouldn't talk to family or friends, and people at my school would spend hours with me just to see if I could say "Hi." So it was quite surprising that I really enjoyed acting. I guess I felt like when I was portraying characters, I didn't have to be myself--when I was acting, I was somebody else, and that helped me through my shyness.

2. What do you see as the connections between acting and dance?

Both of them to me are ways to express yourself in a creative way. Both of them allow you to put yourself, your emotions, and your experiences into an art form. I was taught by one of my wonderful teachers that "Words don't matter; they don't mean anything." It's all about your reaction. I find this so true--the powerful moments in plays are the reactions from one another. This goes for dance as well because your reaction to the music is what makes a piece so beautiful--the audience can tell when you are just doing choreography or when you are really embracing the music you're dancing too.

Acting and dance go hand in hand for me. I've seen dancers dance without feeling, and I can be guilty of that, too, when you're so focused on picking up the choreography because you might be in a class that's moving along really fast, or in an audition and trying to remember everything they're throwing at you. But in the end it's up to you to bring the movement to life, and that's when acting comes into play.

3. How do you balance your work as a model, dancer, and actor?

Right now, I'm focusing on acting, dance, and singing. I'm training full-time and developing my skills to their fullest potential and then will start auditioning and working again early next year upon my graduation. I've found with balancing everything it's important to do the things that excite you. There's nothing worse then working on a project that you don't enjoy: it's like working a job you hate. I'm horrible at saying no to things, so I found at times I really had to step back and work out my priorities. I just have to make sure that the projects I put myself forward for are things that I will happily commit myself to 100%.

4. What prompted your move from Australia to the United States, and how has your career developed following the move?

In 2012 I got into an acting program called Hollywood Immersive which was in L.A. It was an intensive for 10 days. I planned to stay for three weeks and see L.A., travel to San Francisico for a few days, and end the trip with New York. What was meant to be three weeks quickly changed to three months, and in that time I had fallen in love with NYC. After that I caught a flight back to Australia, packed up my room, and moved into a one-bedroom apartment in Manhattan with two other housemates.

Since 2012 I have learned SO much about the industry and about how important networking and education is. I've taken these few years to work on develop my talents and explore the art of auditioning in New York, which really is a career in itself, haha. I've meet so many wonderful people from directors to agents to Broadway stars to composers who have all given me such great advice that I've taken with me to auditions and classes and have been able to apply to my work. Networking I have learned is definitely a big part of starting off in New York--more than most of the time it's about who you know, so I definitely feel I'm on the right path.

5. As you look ahead to the next year or so, what do you hope to accomplish?

Once I finish the current training program I'm in early next year, I'm looking to going back out and auditioning as much as I can and taking the experiences that come my way. I will still keep taking classes as I don't think you ever stop learning and bettering yourself and your skills, so that will always play a big part to me. I've given myself a goal, and that's that by the time I'm 27 I'll have had my first Broadway show. I'm almost 21, so I'm going to work hard and stay motivated and dedicated to the arts and strive to reach that goal and enjoy my journey there.

Thanks, Liv!

Meet Radhaa Nilia, Filmmaker

Radhaa is a multi media artist with a background in indie film making and producing. Radhaa is also an actress, a model, and an energy healer. Radhaa enjoys spending time with her two dogs while being creative in the Appalachian mountains of North Carolina, when she is not traveling to New York and Los Angeles for work. Radhaa has a deep love for animals and regularly rescues local dogs that are dumped in the forest, offering food, shelter, and energy work for them.

Radhaa leads a vegetarian lifestyle and practices yoga and meditation. Radhaa continues to write and create films that move, touch, and inspire through her production company Radhaa Nilia Productions. She has just released a film called Hope Cafe.

1. How did you get started in filmmaking?

I've always had an interest in filmmaking--acting, producing, and directing, too. I'm a multimedia artist by nature and it's my heart's passion to create.

I attended Southern Oregon University Producers Program and because of my desire to learn more, I found an internship at a production company at Sunset Gower studios. It was really cool going to the studio every day with my official pass, feeling like a part of a production company. I started out as a secretary and worked my way up to becoming a producer. There was nothing glamorous about it, though. I pretty much started doing everything under the umbrella of producing and I did it mostly as a solo, female, aspiring producer. I had to learn a lot of tough lessons!

I got to do it all, from casting, catering, and wardrobe styling, and I acted as a makeup artist and therapist on set; I had to learn to pull all the loose ends together with no additional budget at all and not much time to make it happen. It felt like wild makeshift producing, creating something out of thin air. I ended up completing four films that all got picked up for distribution. That was the reward.

I started to feel it was time to break free and create something on my own. My friend Vin Diesel was a really big inspiration for me at the time, and he encouraged me to work hard and get as much experience as I could.

I wanted to challenge myself and see if I could actually make a film on my own--even though I had no budget or backing when I started; I just had a dream, courage and endless drive to make it happen.

2. You have an impressive cast for a first-time filmmaker: how did this happen?

I have to say, it was amazing to have this caliber of talents and I would be happy to give you a rundown of our main actors.

Noel G, who plays Hector:

Noel G is such a talented actor and I really respect his work ethic. He has one hundred and eleven films and TV shows combined under his belt as of now including classics like Training Day, Fast & Furious, The Walking Dead, and The Dark Knight Rises. I am just so proud to have him as our main lead.

Noel is a full-time working actor and he gave his precious time and energy even though he was in the midst of multiple projects when I approached him. Noel made time to fly out to Ashland, Oregon for the scenes. I can't say enough good things about Noel. He is a great actor and so easy to work with. He may act like a gangster in films, but he is such a professional in real life. He also keeps the fun flowing and really made me laugh so much. I am really, really thankful I got to work with him.

Joseph Midyett, who plays Ray & the Homeless man:

Joseph Midyett at the time was working at the Shakespeare Festival Theatre in Ashland, Oregon. Playing two roles is not easy and he did above and beyond in both his roles in Hope Cafe. He even brought his own beard and props to play the homeless man, alongside Noel Gugliemi. That is one of my favorite scenes! In a turn of a hat, Joseph Midyett also plays the boss at the cafe and played the role of a creepy and sinister man. You can't recognize him at all; his whole energy, body language and facial expressions have shifted.

Any director would want him on their set because he makes it easy for other actors and is so emotionally intelligent with his combined instincts and intuition; he uses them all in his work. Joseph Midyett is one of the finest actors I have the pleasure of working with. His work makes me cry because it's just so good, and at the same time I celebrate what a true artist can really do. I know he has a big future and I look forward to working with him again.

F. Valentino Morales of Fast & Furious, who plays Marco:

I had known F. Valentino Morales for many years, through my friendship with Vin Diesel. He is a one-of-a-kind, genuine person. Valentino looks so big and strong and maybe even intimidating, but he is such a kindred soul, a very talented and a unique actor. We had been asking him for a very long time if he could play this role that we had wrote for him, but he had been so busy on location with Vin Diesel that we were not sure if he would be able to do it. But he kept his word and really came through for us. Before he became famous, Valentino had been through the process of making his own indie film with Vin, so he knows what it's like to be an indie filmmaker. He still had the passion and the heart for it, which a lot of people lose when they get to that level of success. I couldn't feel more blessed because he is so perfect for the role of Marco in Hope Cafe and I am so glad that he loves Hope Cafe as well. It was a big pat on the back from someone of his caliber. Be on the lookout for F. Valentino Morales as he is set to produce Fast & Furious 7!

Ayvee Baby, who plays Hayden:

Supporting actress Ayvee Baby is a beautiful woman with multi talents. She did a wonderful job playing the sassy Hayden. She helped me put together musical talents for Hope Cafe. She can sing, rap, and dance; it was fun!

We had some wild road trips together as we drove all the way to Oregon from LA and back a few times to shoot some scenes. We both laughed and definitely cried a few times throughout the making. I think it's safe to say we both learned a lot in the process and it is an experience we will always remember and can laugh about too. Besides acting, Ayvee is also a curvy model. You can find out more about her at: www.ayveebaby.me.

Asia's award-winning actor Raymond Bagatsing, who plays Pastor Miles:

Raymond Bagatsing is a celebrated actor in the Philippines and Asia. He is the equivalent of Brad Pitt in the Philippines' entertainment industry. His ability and range of creativity as an actor is mind-blowing! Raymond has received Asia's best actor award. I had the great opportunity to also work with him in other projects while he was in the USA. It is such an honor to work with someone as brilliant as he is. He can literally play any role and we are so proud to have him in Hope Cafe. He is now back in the Philippines on one of the hottest hit series. I can't get over how blessed we have been to have him play such an important role as Pastor Miles. It was not a role that anyone could just play. Raymond Bagatsing had the right spirit to play the role, as he is a very spiritual person, and that really comes through. He is a true inspiration with his craft. It's something to aspire to and I hope I get the opportunity to work with him again.

Multi-platinum producer Cool from Cool & Dre, who plays Diego:

Cool is a multi-platinum music producer, but he is just really down-to-earth and is very supportive of Hope Cafe. He took a chance on us and did his first cameo role. He was a good sport, and a fine actor. Though he is one of the industy's top music producers in working with Lil Wayne, Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, and Queen Latifah to name a few, he was once an indie artist just like us. Cool worked really hard to get to the top of the industry starting from his garage, so he respects a hard work ethic. He said one thing that I always remember: "It doesn't matter where you start as long as you keep going and never give up 'cause some way, some how you're gonna get there."

That is why he gave us a chance and came out to show his love and support for our project. I'm so grateful and happy that he could grace us with his presence in Hope Cafe.

Mindy Tiry, who plays Beatrice:

Beatrice was a very special character that we created, played by Mindy Tiry. She is a wise, loving, and non-judgemental character. It was hard to cast someone who embodied all these qualities, but Mindy Tiry brought her to life. I actually met Mindy in a memoir writing class many years ago in Oregon, and she happens to be one of the most interesting people I have ever met. I couldn't help but think of her when we were doing casting. This was her first acting role, but she is such a natural actress and it was so easy and comfortable to work with her.

Rapper Phil The Agony, who plays Noel's brother:

Phil The Agony is a music artist, rapper, and a great actor too. He is a big name in the underground hip hop world. He was also behind-the-scenes in creating parts of the music for Hope Cafe. He has a natural charm on screen and has an authenticity that shines through. One of my favorite scenes of his is with Pastor Miles (Raymond Bagatsing)--it's very heartfelt. For being a hardcore rapper, he shows his vulnerability as he ask Pastor Miles to pray for him and his brother. It's a real moment that touches the heart, and a reminder that no matter how tough or indifferent we may act on the outside, at the end of the day we all need love and compassion.

Finally, the role of Larissa is played by myself, Radhaa Nilia:

I auditioned many actresses to play this role, but casting someone to realize my vision of her did not match what I had in mind, so I ended up having to play her last minute. It was so fun acting Larissa! She is a feisty Latina and the complete opposite of Jade. She is not afraid to fight back and say what's on her mind. Many people have told me that Larissa stole their heart and the show and wished that she had more screen time. You never know; she may reappear again!

I want to tell you: it takes a lot of people to put a film project together on any level, and of course I want to give gratitude and a shout out to every single person that has given their support in the making of Hope Cafe. It's been a long journey, and you know who you are: many thanks to you!

I have to say, it an honor to have this caliber of diverse talents.

3. What is Hope Cafe about, what inspired you to make it, and how is diversity an important part of the film?

We live in a very diverse world and that diversity is growing more every day. Growing up, I never saw multi-ethnic role models in Hollywood whom I could identify with. That was a really big challenge for me growing up, and made me with feel really left out. I want to celebrate diversity. It's a beautiful thing to work with people of different backgrounds and ethnicities and that is something to be really proud of.

We started to create an outline for the film and a story of someone that seemed all too familiar kept coming up. I started to realize that this film is based on a real life story and was being manifested through the writing.

One main character stood out, and her name was Jade.

There was something about her: she was a young woman with many disappointments in her life and though she felt like giving up, she kept searching for that "something" that would keep her alive.

Jade is someone who had lost everything, including her faith, but still has that glimmer of hope inside her that keeps her going.

There was something therapeutic about bringing this character back to life. I found a sense of healing and completion in this process. The need to tell this woman's story was the driving force behind this film. She and her daughter have passed away in real life, but in the film I could create an ending that makes me happy. If you really want to know the story, then watch the film. That's as much as I can tell you!

4. I see you are also a model, and that you do energy work, too. How do you balance these pursuits with your film work, too?

Modeling is something that is lighthearted and fun for me in contrast to the hard and sometimes gut-wrenching work of indie filmmaking. When I get to model, I don't have to think much, and I just get to dress up and play.

I enjoy modeling: it is so nice for me to go on set and have my makeup done by a professional makeup artist, designer jewelry and clothes perfectly ready to go. I walk in and catering and hot coffee greets me in the morning. To have everything set up professionally for me makes the shoot a real treat, and I never ever take that for granted.

Doing healing energy work is a whole other level. It gives me a constant perspective, and it's very rewarding. It's one of the best gifts in my life, and keeps me balanced and sane. There is that part of me that is very nurturing and caring, and I get to express and share that in a healing session with someone who is also ready to receive that kind of energy. There is a time and place for everything. I love this work which adds depth and meaning in my life.

I don't mind having a life of contrast because I know as I continue to make more films it will get easier and I know more support will be available to help make this process flow with more grace and ease. I really put everything on the line to achieve my goals. I'm not frivolous; I really just reinvest my resources right back into my projects with Radhaa Nilia Productions. It's my baby and I look forward to the future when I can make a profit, but for now I continue to put my time, energy and money where my heart is, in filmmaking.

5. With the internet allowing you to sell copies of your film, are you centering your publicity efforts on getting the film screened at festivals, or reaching individuals who might buy a DVD copy of your film--or both of these?

We are doing both. We are so honored that Hope Cafe was officially selected at a few film festivals, such as the Golden Door International Film Festival, Oct 10-13th 2013, in New Jersey. Tickets are available at http://goldendoorfilmfestival.org.

Hope Cafe has also been invited to Indie Fest and has the honors of being the first film for the opening night in honor of Latin & Multi Ethnic Filmmakers October 24th-27th in Garden Grove California. Tickets at: http://www.indiefestusa.com.

We would love it if you would join us, but you don't have to wait to see Hope Cafe! You can buy a copy at www.radhaaniliaproductions.com.

Thank you so much for taking the time and supporting my dream as an indie female filmmaker!

Thanks, Radhaa!

Meet Celeste Thorson, Actress, Model, Writer, and Director

The beautiful, young actress Celeste Thorson has been seen on TV shows like How I Met Your Mother, The Exes, and Jimmy Kimmel Live. With creative talent behind the scenes, she has also written 24 episodes of television, seven new media episodes, and three short films. Aside from winning her a cameo in a Rolling Stones music video, her model looks have earned her campaigns for Paul Mitchell, Yoplait, Sprint, and many other top clients along with magazines and billboards worldwide.

Learn more about Celeste on her official Facebook page, as well as her page at the Internet Movie Database.

1. How did you get your start in the entertainment industry?

I was inspired to work in the entertainment industry after collaborating with artists, photographers, and directors from around the world. I just became so motivated to create something new every day and express my artistic aspirations through art in many mediums. Now I perform on camera as well as developing ideas as a screenwriter and director.

2. What do you enjoy most about writing for film and TV, and what do you find most challenging about it?

I enjoy taking a creative idea or story and bringing it to life. It's so fulfilling and exciting to see how it will grow. It's awesome to collaborate with many different artists in production and see them do what they love and put their stamp on it. It can be challenging to satisfy the expectations and timelines of production, but it's even more gratifying when you accomplish that goal.

3. What are a couple of behind-the-scenes aspects of modeling that people who see you in ad campaigns probably would never imagine?

I actually share a little bit of my personal behind the scenes stories on fashion diary at celestethorson.blogspot.com. I think most people don't realize it takes an army to put photoshoots and films or TV shows together. It also isn't always as glamorous as it often appears in the photo. Sometimes you see a gorgeous room, but in reality it's just a pretty set in a drafty warehouse. There are a lot of cheats in Hollywood, like if a dress doesn't fit in a photoshoot you may not zip it up in the back and just shoot from the front. Lots of Hollywood secrets involve duct tape.

4. Could you tell us about some of the projects you're currently working on?

I had a ridiculously good time filming Yogaphiles, an independent comedy series I wrote/produced/directed about a quirky class of L.A. yoga students that take life too seriously. We created some fun short episodes available at www.Yogaphiles.com, and more are rolling out Spring 2013.

5. How do you integrate your interests in activism with your busy career?

I love petitions and the idea of strength in numbers. One of my favorite hobbies is circulating petitions online to raise awareness and change policies. I like to tweet with fans to share causes and charities we're passionate about from @celestethorson. Activism will always be big part of my life and something I hope to share with others for as long as I'm able.

Thanks, Celeste!