Conversations with Sandra Santiago

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Santiago.

Hi Sandra, 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?
Raised in Mexico, Born in Sinaloa. I began showcasing my passion for performing at a young age, entertaining family and friends with my
acting and dancing.

My father who befriended Banda legends like EL RECODO, often brought music to our home, giving me an early stage
and a glimpse into the world I would one day pursue.

As a child, I danced a ballet solo to “Lara’s Theme”, and when I finished, the audience gave me a standing ovation. In that moment,
I knew this was what I wanted to do with my life-the exchange with the audience became my fuel.

Later in high school, I performed in musicals, and during my senior year in Washignton State
I took a theatre class. I played the Godmother in Disney’s Cinderella, and my accent brought unexpected humor to the role, leaving the audience laughing and engaged. That joy, and their reaction, confirmed I was on the right path.

I continued my studies at EL CENTRO DE CAPACITACION DE TELEVISA in Mexico City, prestigious training ground for many renowned actors including Salma Hayek, Eugenio Derbez, Diego Luna, Gael Garcia Bernal and many others.

I graduated from La Sorbonne with a deep passion for French history and literature .
I speak Japanese and Japan feels like a second home to me. I have a deep love for its culture, cuisine and traditions-it holds a very special
place in my heart.
I had the priviledge of traveling to many countries around the world, experiences that have enriched both my life
and my craft. I’m a strong advocate for anti-drug campaigns and human rights. I also have a great love for the
culinary arts- and if you take me to a Michelin-starred restaurant, you just might win my heart.

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?
I’ve faced many obstacles-my accent, my height, my weight, my ethnic background. So many, in fact, that I’ve stopped giving them power. instead I stay focused on my purpose: using my art to uplift, inspire, and educate the world.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’am a versatile actress , equally at home in both drama and comedy.
Who has had the honor of sharing the screen with talents like Brian Cox, Angela Basset, Erik Estrada, Danny Trejo and Luis Guzman .
Most recently I shared the screen with Paul Rodriguez and Jay Mohr in the comedy “Holy Cash” wich premiered and screened at AMCTheatres nationwide
I’ve also produced several shorts films that have earned awards-achievements I’m incredible proud.
What sets me apart from others is simple-being me. There’s only one Sandra, and that’s my greatest strength.

What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is educating and uplifting the world. I believe that through education, we can raise the tone level of society and inspire others to live fuller, more meaningful lives. For me, that means encouraging people to follow their dreams and listen to their hearts- because that’s what life is truly about. when we’re honest with ourselves and stay true to our path, we live with integrity, and that’s the foundation of who we are.

Image Credits
Poster designed by Reinaldo Vandres