Meet Valeria Feliciano | Model & Filmmaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Valeria Feliciano and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Valeria, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I’m originally from Puerto Rico, so life is very different here in Florida in comparison to the island. Especially, being raised by a hard-working single mother of two. Years ago, My mother made the difficult decision of leaving everything she knew behind. To give my brother and I the chance at a better life and education. As you can imagine It was not an easy transition. As we struggled to learn English and adjust to life here in the U.S. It’s definitely been a long journey. But I’m thankful for the opportunities and lessons I’ve learned. Growing up I learned the importance of staying humble, working hard, and honoring my cultural roots. Which has helped shape me into the person I am today. Also, No matter where you come from or where you’re going. Remember that people are fighting everyday for the so-called “American dream” and a better life for not only them, but for their families. Everyone is on a journey to self discovery. With that said, life has made me value; hard work, honesty, culture and the importance of giving back.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I love creating compelling stories that inspire hope, creativity and overall overcoming barriers. I look at all my projects with the goal of spreading hope and inspiring people not only through my content, but the films and music videos I produce and direct. With that said, I don’t like to just take on any project. For me it’s about creating with a purpose. It’s about the bigger picture. The overall message and mission of creating something meaningful to share with the world.
What I’m most excited about this coming year is starting a podcast that focuses on sharing female stories without limits. Spreading the importance of overcoming barriers in different industries. I believe It’s important to share our experiences to help others who may be struggling through a similar situation. Whether it’s personally or professionally, we all need some guidance and support. Sometimes resources are not always available within our communities or professional industries.
Now, when it comes to my professional career. Truly it’s all about passion and determination. Something to ask yourself; How far are you willing to go to reach a goal or dream, without compromising your beliefs? One very important lesson is working on developing yourself before hopping on someone else’s dream. And let me tell you, nothing is ever easy. Nor given. It is earned. People will underestimate you. But another important lesson is learning to tune out the noise and follow your heart. It’s really all about trusting in yourself and your abilities. Most importantly approach everything in a positive manner and surround yourself with people who are positive, uplifting and support you. Even if that means letting go of certain relationships that are not fulfilling. That’s something that has really helped me get to where I am today, personally and professionally.
I’m definitely not perfect and Challenges will always arise, but it’s how we choose to learn to overcome those challenges that make all the difference. There have been many times where I was faced with difficult situations. Sometimes, some have been harder than others, but I’ve managed to just take a negative and change it into a positive. Instead of indulging in what went wrong, I’m just thankful for what went right. It’s important to learn from our challenges and mistakes, it helps shape us into who we are. Again, nothing ever comes easy. Nor is it ever given, but earned.

I want to support the next generation of female and Latinx creators in entertainment. My overall goal is to develop and run my own video production company. I want to be able to share my experiences with young women considering a career within the entertainment industry. Helping increase the estimated 1.6% of Latinas in leadership positions within the entertainment industry.
Here is a little note I’d like to share: Spread love and kindness, not hate. It is easy to be a victim, but it’s harder to be a survivor. Be the voice for those who may not be able to speak up for themselves. Remember you are what makes you uniquely beautiful, and no one can ever take that away from you. Always create with purpose!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I could plan out a week-long trip with a close friend, I would probably start with a stop at Disney world. Since I’m a big Disney fan. But realistically my Miami local activities list would probably include visiting Calle Ocho, grabbing some ice cream at Azucar, and of course exploring a little of the Miami nightlife. Following would be a trip to the Spanish Monastery, Vizcaya museum, and Zoo/aquarium. Also, we can’t miss eating at La Industria Bakery in Bayside. After that a day trip to Key West would be ideal. But to wrap up the week we would go and relax at the venetian pool and stop for a quick meal at Palacio de los Jugos.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to dedicate this shoutout to all the inspiring strong and independent women, who have made such an impact in my life. Including some of my close friends, family, and WeVenture mentors. Thank you so much for motivating me and being part of my journey.

Website: www.valeriafeliciano.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeria.feliciano_official/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valeria.feliciano.official/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPVd2pP9U3_RVPEvSvh_mog

Other: TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@valeriafeliciano/video/7027660138236448006?is_from_webapp=v1&item_id=7027660138236448006

Image Credits
Carlos Velez Photography Perfect Photography LLC. – Araceli Ace