Today we’d like to introduce you to Akansha Tokas.
Hi Akansha, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Akansha and my story started when I decided to embark on a journey to Los Angeles to pursue my dream of becoming a filmmaker. Like many others in the entertainment industry, My journey began as a production assistant, where I learned the ropes on various student films. With each project, I delved deeper into the world of filmmaking, applying my knowledge and skills to contribute to the success of the films.
As my experience grew, opportunities came knocking, and I found myself working on music videos. The Vibrant energy on set and the chance to work with talented artists not only ignited my creativity but also taught me invaluable lessons about the industry.
However, just when I started feeling confident about manifesting my dreams, a unique challenge presented itself- the unprecedented Covid pandemic. The entire world went into lockdown, causing every aspect of the industry to come to a screeching halt. It was a truly scary time, as I had to navigate my professional life in a gig-based industry now plagued with uncertainty.
Despite the challenges, I refused to let the pandemic dampen my spirit. During the lockdown, with the help of my friends, I kept my optimism alive, knowing that the film industry would eventually roar back to life.
My perseverance paid off when, after graduating from school, I landed a remarkable opportunity to work as a production assistant on a game show hosted by none other than the late-night legend himself, Jay Leno. The show called ” You Bet Your Life” was a platform for me to showcase my abilities, as I contributed behind the scenes to create an engaging and entertaining experience.
My efforts didn’t go unnoticed. Fate smiled upon me, and within the first season, I was promoted to the coveted position of producer. I now had the opportunity to oversee the creative process and collaborate with a renowned host like Jay Leno.
My journey from a wide-eyed Indian student to a successful producer is a testament to my resilience and passion. With determination, hard work, and a dash of luck, dreams could become reality.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, just like the famous Ice-Cream, it has been a rocky road, all thanks to Covid. When it was finally time for me to fully immerse myself in the vibrant filmmaking community of Los Angeles, the pandemic hit, and everything changed. Suddenly, lockdowns and restrictions became the norm, making it incredibly difficult to find work opportunities and establish artistic connections. The hustle and bustle of the industry seemed to come to a standstill, leaving aspiring filmmakers like myself in a state of uncertainty.
Networking, an integral part of building a career in the film industry, became even more daunting. The Barriers created by social distancing made it harder to connect with industry professionals, who were also grappling with the uncertainties brought on by the pandemic. The lack of in-person events, festivals, and gatherings deprived me of the chance to make meaningful connections that could have opened doors to new opportunities.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work as a Producer on the unscripted side of the entertainment industry. Specifically, I am proud to be a part of the energetic team behind the Fox game show, “You Bet Your Life” with the legendary Jay Leno.
As a Producer, my role revolves around the fun and creative side of the production process. I have the incredible opportunity to pair up different unique and eccentric characters, combining their personalities and quirks to create a genuinely funny and charming atmosphere for each episode of the trivia-based game show.
Working on “You Bet Your Life” has been nothing short of a dream come true. Every day brings new challenges, but I’m grateful for the chance to learn from the experienced veterans and legends of the unscripted world. Their guidance and expertise have been invaluable, helping me grow both professionally and creatively.
What many people may not realize is the unseen work that goes on behind the scenes in the unscripted world. As a Producer, it is my responsibility to navigate through unexpected challenges and extinguish fires that the regular audience could never even imagine. Each day is an exercise in problem-solving and quick thinking, ensuring that the smooth operation of the show is maintained.
Despite the tireless efforts and behind-the-scenes nature of my work, I couldn’t be prouder of being part of such a dynamic and entertaining production. The laughter and joy that our show brings to the audience make the long hours and occasional stress all worth it.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Keep trying and never lose sight of your dreams. Understanding the fluidity of this industry and embracing the fact that one job can lead to another, even if it’s not your ideal starting point. With time and relentless effort, you’ll carve your path toward the destination you desire. Remember, success is a journey, not a destination. Keep pushing forward, and soon enough, you’ll end up exactly where you want to be.
