We were lucky to catch up with Lania Kayell recently and have shared our conversation below.

Lania, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I worked as a background performer and participated in film related internships. Interning with a professional director and acting coach allowed me to develop my skills from both sides of the camera. I was able to build my portfolio and even produce my first comedy short film. I earned a certificate and letter of recommendation. I took that experience and started working with film production companies.

I could have started younger and gone to film school. This just wasn’t my path. I had an interest in entertainment, but I just wasn’t ready. I also didn’t have stability and support as a young adult. So investing in this industry wasn’t an option at the time. I found that I had a lot more time to explore this industry after the age of thirty. I was able to study with industry professionals and gain on set experience.

Being able to multi-task, problem solve, network, and maintain enthusiasm about my work are what I found to be helpful. I also was able to grow with teams and work on multiple projects at a time in various areas such as writing, casting, and producing. These departments were also flexible for my schedule and could be done in person and remotely.

If I experienced obstacles it was mostly due to me not having a formal education to apply for a certain position. Credits and experience were obstacles in the beginning, but I built them over time. My focus is producing but if work was slow, I would find other creative outlets to keep me inspired.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Thanks for the opportunity!

My name is Lania Kayell and I am an indie film producer. I started in the industry as a background performer. I love to be involved in the creative process. So, I also worked with screenwriting groups and volunteered on sets as talent and crew.

I currently offer my producing services to various production companies that focus on TV series, documentaries, and feature films. I am open to all genres and am flexible with budgets. I really like to connect with the writer / director to understand the reason behind the story. I help determine their strengths and other areas that need focus.

Creative expression got me through some uncertain times. Art impacts people in different ways. I want to contribute any support I can to help bring stories to life. It’s a process that I just can’t get enough of! I want to inspire and entertain viewers. I usually base potential partnerships on how passionate the writer/director is and how our audience could connect with the story.

You can view more of my work at IMDb.me/LaniaKayell

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

From my own personal experience as an indie film producer I think it’s common for people to see the finished product and conclude that everything went smoothly. As an actress I learned to expect rejection. As a producer I prepare for a backup plan. It could take years for a project to get made. We don’t usually start with a financial backing or connection with major distribution deals. We usually need to connect with and build our audience. Cast and crew can change. Budgets can change. Locations can be lost. These things can occur during the last moments before filming. Our work isn’t done after we wrap. There’s so much more to do after that. It’s exciting, risky, and stressful all at the same time… and it may seem weird but I know why I’m doing this. I love what I do!

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Yes, I know how much creative expression has helped me. I had a health scare and that shifted a lot of things in my life. I wanted to start pursing all the things I had ignored for so long. I’d like to eventually team up with people that may resonate with finding healing or positive outcomes through various art. I had a lot of odds stacked against me. I’m still finding my way, but I appreciate the organizations and production companies that gave me a chance. That’s what keeps me motivated.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/laniakayell
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/laniakayell
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laniakayell
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laniakayell/
• Twitter: https://x.com/laniakayell
• Other: https://IMDb.me/LaniaKayell