We recently connected with Hayden Rose and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Hayden thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

It’s hard to choose just one project as the most meaningful because I put a lot of thought into the projects I take on. I don’t accept the first opportunity that comes my way, and I count myself privileged to be in a position where I can choose work that aligns with my values. I set high professional standards for myself, and each project I undertake reflects that commitment to purpose, quality, and impact.

As a Creative Brand Strategist, I’ve had the privilege of writing, producing, and leading innovative animations and creative marketing campaigns for my clients. The opportunity to direct a team and make key decisions from concept to execution has not only strengthened my confidence but also sharpened my production skills. For me, it’s not just about delivering results—it’s about telling stories that inspire, resonate, and leave a lasting impression.

As an actress, every role I take on is a chance to fully immerse myself in the creative vision of others while challenging myself to explore the human experience. Whether I’m in a voice-over booth or in front of the camera, I come prepared, focused, and ready to give my all. Acting isn’t just a performance for me—it’s a journey into understanding perspectives, emotions, and stories that deserve to be told. I approach every project with enthusiasm and a deep respect for the process.

Whether I’m crafting strategies or stepping onto set, I strive to break the status quo. I challenge myself to push creative limits and ensure that every project I take on is meaningful—not just to me but to the audiences and teams I work with. That’s the standard I hold myself to, and it’s what drives me to create work that truly matters.

Hayden, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I entered this industry in my 20s, but the seeds were planted much earlier. Like many (I’m sure), I grew up in an environment where pursuing a career in the arts wasn’t seen as a “real job.” Working in entertainment was a “nice-to-have” dream, while academia and a stable career in public service were encouraged. I tried to follow that path—I even completed a dual bachelor’s degree in Communication and Public Affairs, as well as Film Studies, with a minor in Psychology. It took six years, and while I gained valuable knowledge, I felt uninspired and unfulfilled.

From a young age, I was naturally drawn to creative pursuits. I commandeered the family video camera to make stop-motion animations and short films. I wrote poetry, participated in school plays, and found joy in modeling and photography. In high school, I loved drama and media classes and even won a filmmaking award at graduation. Despite all these early creative experiences, I initially suppressed those passions to pursue what I thought I should be doing.

After graduation, I felt stuck—lost in a sea of unfulfilling work. But one day, as I lay in bed, I had a moment of clarity (with Jennifer Aniston’s voice, no less, whispering in my head): Acting. That moment was the turning point. I created a plan—asking myself, Who am I? What do I want to be? How do I start?—and I never looked back.

I snuck off to open casting calls, got myself an agent, and started at the bottom. I worked background roles, landed one-liners, and went back to school to focus on performance. I freelanced, interned, took on low-budget projects, and grinded my way through. Along the way, I met amazing people, had incredible experiences, and discovered the deep happiness that comes from following your calling. It wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t trade those moments for anything.

Today, as a Creative Brand Strategist and Actress, I combine my love for storytelling with my professional expertise. I create and produce meaningful campaigns, animations, and content for my clients while also embracing the thrill of performing in front of a camera or behind a microphone. I help brands and creative visions come to life, solving problems through innovation, strategy, and authentic connection.

What sets me apart is my ability to merge creativity and discipline. Whether I’m directing a team or stepping into a role, I bring passion, preparation, and a collaborative spirit to every project. I’m most proud of having the courage to carve out a path that aligns with my values. If there’s one thing I’d like people to know about me, it’s this: I believe in the power of pursuing what lights you up—and I’m here to create, connect, and inspire.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn was this: You don’t have to say yes to everything. In the entertainment industry, there’s this pervasive idea that every opportunity could be your last, and if you say no, you’re somehow sabotaging your future. I carried that belief for far too long, and it led to a lot of unnecessary stress and compromises. But here’s what I’ve learned: setting boundaries and saying no to opportunities that don’t align with your values, goals, or self-worth is not only okay—it’s necessary.

Not every opportunity is meant for you. Some roles or spaces might be a better fit for someone else, and that’s perfectly fine. It doesn’t mean you’ll never work again. It means you’re honoring your craft and staying true to who you are.

Another crucial lesson I had to unlearn was the idea that working for free is acceptable when you’re starting out. It’s not. If you’re a professional—even a beginner—you deserve to be compensated for your time and talent. Payment doesn’t have to be extravagant, but it should always be agreed upon and in writing. Too many people are willing to take advantage of a good person, expecting you to work for exposure or experience while they benefit from your efforts. It’s rare for someone to pull you up after standing on your shoulders, so it’s essential to protect yourself.

If I had learned this earlier, I could have saved myself a lot of time, money, and heartache. Now, I approach every opportunity with the confidence to ask: Does this align with my values? Is this worth my time? Because knowing your worth—and sticking to it—is one of the most empowering lessons of all.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The goal driving my creative journey is simple: to live a life I won’t regret. I’ve spent enough time compromising for others, and now I’m focused on creating a path that brings me genuine happiness. I’m incredibly lucky to do what I love—both as a creative and an actress—and every project I take on is a step toward building a life filled with meaning, joy, and fulfillment.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm9596188/
• Instagram: @hayden.roro
• Facebook: Hayden_R0se
• Other: https://vimeo.com/751309180

Image Credits

@By.Nani.Carson (Instagram)