Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sofia Pellegrino. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Sofia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I am truly happy as a creative, and I’ve never wondered what life would be like in a “regular” job. As a mom of two, I knew early on that pursuing a career in the acting industry would come with challenges. That’s why I made a conscious decision to build a strong foundation first—earning a degree in accounting and establishing a career in real estate.

Having this backbone has given me the freedom to fully pursue my passions in acting and filmmaking without sacrificing the life I want to live. Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t always easy, but I am deeply positive and proactive. There isn’t a single day where I’m not working on myself, whether that means honing my creative craft or growing my businesses.

Today, I run a tax firm and work as a realtor and associate broker, alongside continuing my journey as an actor and filmmaker. I love acting, and I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished so far. Every step has been intentional, and I wouldn’t change this path for the world.

Sofia , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My love for storytelling began long before I had the words to name it. I was born in Lima, Peru, and by the time I was six or seven, I was already creating stories in my head. I still remember the first time I went to the movies as it felt magical. My heart was racing, and in that moment, I knew storytelling would always be part of my life.

When I came to the United States with my mother and sisters, life was not easy. My mom was a single mother, and from a young age I learned responsibility, resilience, and the importance of showing up for family as I helped care for my younger sisters. Leaving my father behind in Peru was one of the most shocking experiences of my childhood, though years later we were reunited —
a moment that brought healing and perspective.

Stories became my refuge and my strength. I was the kid who stood up to bullies, who imagined herself as a superhero, who believed stories could protect, empower, and inspire. I come from a family of five incredible sisters, and today I’m also the proud mother of two smart, strong daughters who inspire me daily.

In college, I initially declared an English major because I wanted to be a writer. Practical reality eventually led me to build stability first — not to abandon my dream, but to protect it. I entered real estate at nineteen, became a mother in my early twenties, and focused on creating a strong foundation for my family.

After graduating from George Mason University with a major in Accounting, I returned to my calling. I trained at The National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts in Washington, DC., completed a two-year program, and began working consistently in commercials, independent films, and TV shows —
all while running my real estate and tax businesses as a single mother.

My first film, The Last Cry, earned recognition at film festivals, including awards for First-Time Director and Best Actress. I later directed El Poder de Ser Mujer, a film addressing domestic violence. Several years ago, I was selected to train at the Stella Adler Studio in Los Angeles, an experience that led to my representation in L.A.

Today, I continue to audition, act, create, and develop independent films. Storytelling has always been my compass — and my goal remains the same as it was when I was a child sitting in that dark movie theater: to tell meaningful stories that leave an impact.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the most important lessons I had to unlearn was the belief that I wasn’t good enough.

Since the age of thirteen, I carried a deeply ingrained narrative shaped by a traumatic period in my life that lasted several years. During that time, I was forced to leave my home at a very young age, and the experience left me feeling unwanted, unworthy, and incapable of believing that I deserved space, success, or recognition.

That belief followed me quietly into every area of my life, including my creative work. It wasn’t a lack of talent or ambition that held me back — it was the internal story I had learned to tell myself.

The unlearning began when I entered real estate and started helping families achieve one of the most meaningful goals of their lives: becoming homeowners. Seeing the impact of my work helped me recognize my value and contribution. I began to understand that what I brought to the table truly mattered.

A pivotal moment in that healing came with my first film, The Last Cry. The response from women who saw themselves reflected in the story was incredibly powerful. Knowing that the film empowered women and helped others feel less alone made me realize that I wasn’t alone either. Through storytelling, I found connection, purpose, and healing.

An even deeper transformation came through my relationship with God. Faith helped me rebuild my sense of worth from the inside out. I learned that my value isn’t something I have to earn or prove — it is inherent. Knowing that God walks with me, and that my heart and intentions matter, gave me the confidence to fully step into who I am.

Today, I move through life and my career with confidence and fearlessness. I no longer question whether I’m worthy, I know I am and I do life alongside the greatest partner I could ever have: God.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the impact you can have on people’s lives. I’m intentional about creating work that inspires and empowers, and that’s something I will continue to do. There are so many people living in darkness, and I truly believe that a single story, a powerful performance, or an inspiring film can shift perspective and restore hope. If my work helps even one person see life through a more hopeful lens, then it has fulfilled its purpose.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sofiapellegrinoofficial?igsh=MTR5YmR3bm80YmIzeg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18DWq38WUg/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@sofiapellegrino1478?si=bCRLMKUrLAirAHRi
• Other: https://imdb.me/Sofiapellegrino

Image Credits

Photos by: Francesca Cardoza