Today we’d like to introduce you to Eleana.

Hi Eleana, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?

I have always been artistic and creative as a child. I performed in theatre and did modeling. Even in my teen years, I’ve always expressed my artistic and creative side. Unfortunately, my parents couldn’t afford to place me in a performing arts school or provide me the tools necessary in order to grow. As I got older and entered adulthood, I experienced life; college, relationship, working full-time, etc. My creativity was on pause. During my sophomore year in college, I ended a relationship. Through that pain and healing process, my creativity started to resurface again. It’s true what they say being around toxic people can really dim your light and affect your creativity. Within the same year, I decided I want to grow as an artist and develop my skills. I joined an agency called AMTC (Actors, Models & Talent for Christ) SHINE which gave me the training I needed in my craft, signing with an agent, and understanding the entertainment industry. Through SHINE, I was awarded a scholarship to New York Film Academy. At New York Film Academy, I natured my craft even more. I learned so much about acting, film, directing, television and fashion. It was an amazing experience. After graduating college and film school, I started to network and explore my career opportunities. So far, I’ve been in 3 films. I have attended screen writing events where I am able to play different characters. I have learned to love my journey. I am still growing, leaning and working.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

It’s definitely not been smooth. With my faith, it makes the road easier to manage. There will always be struggles along this journey. I’ve experienced lows and highs. I believe any career path we choose in life will always come with its struggles. Some of the struggles I’ve experienced are the constant “No’s”. It’s not easy when you’re putting in the work, you know you did a great job during the audition and you get a no. I had to let go of people that was a struggle for me. It’s hard but not everyone is meant to go with you. I had to relocate to a new city to explore my career that was a struggle and it wasn’t easy but I took the leap of faith. Nothing in life worth having is smooth. I am grateful for the struggles for they have made me stronger.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?

I am an actress. I am an entrepreneur. I am a digital content creator. I am a model. I am a mental health and substance abuse intake coordinator. I am known for all that I do. I specialize in everything that I do as an actress, entrepreneur, content creator, model, and intake coordinator. I am proud of all the work that I do because I am walking boldly and confident in who God called me to be. I am walking in my God-given purpose. What sets me apart is my gift. It is unique and what I bring to the table nobody has it. Each and every one of us has something different, special and unique. None of us are the same. We all have different qualities that sets us apart. My performance will never be the same as anyone else.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?

What I love about New York is the drive, passion and hustle this big city has. It’s so inspiring to see people of all ages following their dreams. It’s so motivating. It pushes me to never give up. In this city I learned to have tough skin. Whew, yes my skin got thick. It made me so much stronger in my career path. I love that New Yorkers are so straight forward and will tell it like it is no sugar coating. What I least like about my city is how expensive it is to live. The cost of living is horrible and way too high. Other than that it is a great city.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @eleana.pena
• Twitter: @itseleana