Today we’d like to introduce you to Chiara Tilesi
Hi Chiara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Florence, Italy, and at the age of 18, I decided to leave my country and family to pursue my dream of becoming a filmmaker. It has been a challenging journey filled with numerous obstacles, but my passion for using the power of media to make a difference kept me going. My first movie, titled “All the Invisible Children,” helped shine a spotlight on children who are often forgotten. This experience was incredibly rewarding both personally and professionally.
Creating this anthology film and collaborating with cinematic maestros such as Emir Kusturica, Ridley Scott, Katia Lund, and Spike Lee, among others, has taught me invaluable lessons and greatly enriched my craft.
The big change came in 2015 when I opened Pandora’s box about the gender disparity in the media industry and beyond. This is how “We Do It Together,” the nonprofit film production company, was born. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it unites men and women in the mission to transform the representation of women in media from objects to subjects. Through this initiative, we aim to create a more equitable and inclusive industry.
Our first movie, “Tell It Like a Woman,” was another anthology film. In 2023, we received an Oscar nomination for the song “Applause,” written by Diane Warren and performed by Sofia Carson. This movie was incredibly important because it laid the foundation for the next chapter of “We Do It Together,” creating the first nonprofit film studio dedicated to the empowerment of women.
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?
The obstacles and challenges of achieving a dream are actually the necessary steps for growth and evolution. They prepare you for the moment when you are finally ready to reach your dream. Imagine if everyone got everything they wanted without challenges or obstacles; there wouldn’t be any space for personal or professional growth. Overcoming difficulties not only builds resilience but also deepens your appreciation for the achievements you work hard to attain. It’s through these struggles that you gain the skills, insights, and strength needed to truly succeed. In my case, I faced numerous obstacles. Being a film producer is challenging, especially if you are a foreigner, a woman, and you aspire to produce movies that create a positive social impact. The possibility of success is very low, and the obstacles are immense. The biggest obstacle is that when you want to do something different from the mainstream, you pay the price for it. It has been incredibly hard to raise funds for these types of movies or documentaries, but in the end, it is all worth it because you do it for a greater good. You are trying to be part of the solution and not part of the problem. These challenges have not only strengthened my resolve but have also highlighted the importance of perseverance and dedication in making a meaningful difference. Every obstacle overcome is a step closer to creating a more inclusive and equitable media landscape. Despite the difficulties, the journey has been incredibly rewarding, providing a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a film producer and director. I don’t feel that this is just my job because it is my passion. It’s almost a lifestyle since making things happen in this industry is incredibly challenging. The dedication required goes beyond typical working hours; it involves a deep, personal commitment and an unwavering belief in the stories we want to tell. Despite the hardships, the joy of bringing a vision to life and impacting audiences makes every effort worthwhile.
How do you think about happiness?
Happiness is made up of small moments, sometimes lasting only minutes or even seconds. I believe joy, on the other hand, can be more sustainable. Happiness is often found in fleeting moments and events that bring us immediate pleasure. However, joy comes from a deeper place. I feel joy when I trust the process of life and embrace the unknown. Joy arises when I am at peace, free from expectations, and possess a sense of surrender that empowers me. This inner peace allows me to appreciate life’s journey, finding contentment in the present moment rather than constantly seeking external validation or outcomes.
Moreover, joy is rooted in a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends temporary happiness. It is cultivated through meaningful relationships and personal growth. Joy is also found in the quiet moments of reflection and gratitude, where we can connect with our true selves. Ultimately, joy provides a stable foundation that supports us through life’s ups and downs, making it a more enduring and profound experience than fleeting happiness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wedoittogether.org
- Instagram: chiaratilesi
- Facebook: chiaratilesi
