Today we’d like to introduce you to Caiqin (Jennifer) Zhan.
Caiqin (Jennifer), we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I always introduce myself as someone who is rooted on Earth but based in space. My upbringing was culturally diverse, as I was born and raised in Chengdu, China, completed high school in New Jersey, and spent my college years in California. Although I initially dreamed of being in front of the camera, my passion for film and entertainment ultimately led me to explore other creative avenues, such as storytelling, communication, and producing.
After graduating from UC Berkeley, I was fortunate enough to work at a prominent film company, where I worked alongside talented uprising filmmakers and collaborated on several inspiring indie films. As a co-producer, I am honored to have contributed to the making of “Playland,” which premiered at the International Film Festival Rotterdam and was nominated for the Tiger Award. This encouraging medal motivates me to continue learning and growing as a filmmaker.
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?
My life journey has been far from smooth. Growing up as a “good child” left me feeling lost and unsure of my own identity. The expectations placed on “good children” to be good in school, meet their parents’ standards, and follow the rules have made me hesitant to express myself and pursue what truly inspires me.
I’ve faced countless compromises, detours, and dead ends, and my biggest challenge is that I still don’t have a clear sense of where I’m headed. As I mentioned before, I initially aspired to become an actor, but cultural clashes, language barriers, struggles in my family, and my own hesitation derailed that dream.
However, I have come to appreciate the freedom and flexibility that come with not having a fixed path. I started to enjoy the fact that I am shapeless and able to mold myself into anything I want to be. Becoming a producer could be a good starting point for me, but I am eager to explore other opportunities and push through any struggles that come my way. I am excited to see where this constantly changing journey takes me.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I serve as the Director of the Executive Committee at Stars Collective, dedicated to supporting BIPOC/AAPI and female filmmakers and indie films worldwide. Currently, I am writing a short story with the hope of adapting it into a stop-motion animation film.
Apart from filmmaking, I am also exploring other paths of creativity, such as branding and art directing.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I love this city for its passionate spirit. Everywhere I look, people are striving to make a living or pursuing their dreams, even if it means working into their later years. I have many good friends in their 60s, yet still pursuing their Hollywood dreams with joy and determination who inspire and encourage me to act on my free will.
I feel incredibly fortunate to say that there is nothing I dislike about this city. That doesn’t mean I never see the darkness of the city, but I am glad to see that people around me are working hard in changing this place, and more and more people are able to speak out.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denpajenn/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-zhan-caiqin
