Conversations with Maëva Marcognet

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maëva Marcognet.

Hi Maëva, 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?
I was born in the south of France and was fortunate to begin traveling early on with my mom. Growing up in Asia exposed me to diverse cultures and lifestyles, fostering open-mindedness, curiosity about the world, and fluency in English. I attended middle school in Bali, Indonesia, followed by high school in Bangkok, Thailand. I started college and took up teaching opportunities. Eventually, I returned to Paris to complete my Bachelor’s degree in filmmaking while saving up to chase my Acting career in Los Angeles. In 2019, I arrived in California to embark on my studies at UCLA Extension. Recently, I proudly graduated, earning two certificates in Entertainment Studies and Acting. Having spent nearly five years as a dedicated student, I made the decision to apply for a work permit, which has now been approved, marking the beginning of new opportunities and, hopefully, more chances to pursue acting roles.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Challenges are inevitable in life, and the path to success is rarely smooth. I am a strong believer that everything happens for a reason, yet I also recognize the importance of determination and perseverance, which have been instrumental in my journey.

First, entering the creative field is inherently accompanied by pressure. The pursuit of an artistic career is not always universally acknowledged and is often perceived merely as a hobby.

Moreover, the decision to venture miles away from everyone, family & friends, embarking on a lonely journey to start a new life on the other side of the world, constituted a significant leap that demanded taking bold risks without dwelling on potential setbacks.

Then, after settling in Los Angeles, learning from exceptional instructors, and pursuing numerous acting opportunities within the school community, I had the possibility to be temporary employed in the industry for a year during my OPT (Optional Practical Training) in 2020. However, Covid had different plans in mind. Career openings dried up, and my chances to work in the field and secure an agent or sponsor vanished. Despite a whole year seemingly wasted for acting, it became a period of profound self-growth and reflection on my goals. With a second certificate under my belt and four years gone by, my desire to build a bigger life here had never been stronger.

Finally, as an international student, the immigration circumstances posed the most notable obstacle. Limited to on-campus work during my studies, it presented a complicated situation. Once I completed my academic program, I dedicated myself to exploring diverse alternatives to extend my stay in the US and find the best option. After several months of effort, substantial expenses, and completing extensive paperwork, I now have a work permit allowing me an additional three years to continue my cherished journey in the city of Angels.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a passionate and emerging actress and dancer with a lifelong artistic journey that began at a young age in France. Exploring various dance styles, I eventually refined my focus on Heels and Belly dance. Early on, I immersed myself in a Theater group and enrolled in every drama class available during my school years. Whether it was dance or theater, my love for performing, captivating audiences, and evoking emotions only grew stronger.

My initial encounters with cameras came about while modeling for fun in Bali. As I completed high school in Thailand, I embraced acting opportunities, marking the beginning of my acting debuts. I dived into background roles, enjoyed fun commercial shoots, experienced breathtaking music video sets, made some memorable TV appearances, and gathered a wealth of new experiences in the field.

In college, I attended Film school out of curiosity and fascination with the filmmaking process. While I developed a strong interest in directing and editing, it was being in front of the camera that ignited a passion within me and provided the satisfaction and happiness I had always sought.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve had the privilege of training internationally at renowned institutions like Cours Florent in Paris, France; LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) representative in Bali, Indonesia; and The Acting Corps & UCLA Extension in Los Angeles, United States. These endeavors have fueled my motivation to pursue my dream relentlessly.

However, my greatest source of inspiration and pillar of support has been my mom. She raised three kids as a single mother and consistently demonstrated strength and resilience. Although we may not express our emotions openly, actions speak volumes.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maevamarcognet.bookfoto.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maevamcgt

Image Credits
AndrewB Photography PhotoExpozure Photography LeoSophia Photography MT Photography KyleBerg Photography TheChoiceThailand PreludeThefilm