Artistic and creative careers are among the most rewarding, but they also come with unique challenges. We asked some of the city’s best creatives to tell us why they choose to pursue a creative career.

Jennifer Arce | Food and Product Photographer and Stop Motion Artist

I have no idea hahaha. I don’t have any background in the art world. Actually, I went to college to study Pharmaceutical Chemistry (super unrelated to the creative field!!!) I never thought I would be doing the type of work I do today for a living. If someone had told me I’d be doing creative work as a photographer five years ago, I would have laughed at it because I thought I was everything but a creative person. Read more>>

Hiromi kajima | Graphic designer

I was born and raised in Japan, and from a young age, I always saw myself becoming a teacher like my grandparents. Observing them in their teaching roles inspired me. When I entered university, I pursued a degree in the Faculty of Education, aiming to become a kindergarten or elementary school teacher. Read more>>

Meggie Cherilus | Actor, writer, producer & Massage Therapist

I pursued a creative career because the ordinary was so bland. Now pursuing an acting career didn’t just happen out of the blue. Let me elaborate, when people ask me how long have I been acting, I tell them my whole life. It’s true. Since I can remember I’ve had a camera in my face. My brothers and I dub our mom the “original Selfie Queen” because after my mom got the money shot of her kids on stage, she was notorious for turning that camcorder around to make sure the people know who’s behind the lens. Read more>>

Stephanie Sahadeo | Model & Owner of Dushi Juicy

I have always been a creative since a young age, in all forms of art. Dancing, singing, drawing, painting, writing and the list goes on. I’ve learned that art is a tool that can be used to express yourself and also can be very therapeutic. As I got older, finding a way to combine my passion for art with a way of creating a source of income was key for me, to be happy and aligned in my self-purpose. Read more>>