Today we’d like to introduce you to Melina Farahani.
Hi Melina, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
For much of my life, I felt a pull toward creativity, yet I hesitated to fully embrace it. I’ve always pondered the question, “What would you do if you knew you could not fail?” This quote originates from First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. For me, the answer was always an actress, but even that wasn’t enough to stop my fear. The image of the struggling artist discouraged me from fully pursuing my artistic passions; I valued great things and luxurious experiences, and I didn’t believe an artistic path could provide them.
So, I pursued a degree in chemistry and later earned a master’s in environmental systems engineering from University College London. During my studies, I found myself increasingly drawn to the creative aspects of my academic pursuits. I sought out parallels in my STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees. Chemistry requires us to anticipate how chemicals interact with biological systems, the interactions between various elements and compounds is much like how an actor must understand the nuanced dynamics between characters and their environment. Similarly, in environmental engineering, we consider the social and behavioral factors influencing environmental decisions. This deepened my conviction that even in pursuits seemingly distant from acting, I was desperate in finding connections to my passion.
Towards the end, whilst writing my thesis, I booked an independent film. Till this day, I can say the best days of my life were on that set. Subsequently, I encountered a variation of Eleanor Roosevelt’s question: “What would you do if you knew you would fail?” The problem with the original version it made me focus on wealth or status, which aren’t true sources of happiness.
I realized that if I’m doing something I love, success becomes less of a goal. It dawned on me that I’m in love with the process of being an artist. This revelation, coupled with my academic pursuits and film experience, clarified that the only thing I’m willing to fail for is being an actress. The image of the struggling artist no longer intimidated me; instead, it represented the opportunity to wake up every day and do something I enjoyed without worrying about failure or struggle.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I believe that any worthwhile journey is bound to have its share of challenges. As an artist, I’ve learned that life’s experiences don’t define me; they shape, enrich, and enlighten me.
Recently, one of my biggest challenges was relocating to LA from London. It marked my first time living alone in a city that often felt overwhelmingly large and daunting. Despite feeling close to my dreams, they seemed just out of reach, and every step forward in my career felt like several steps back. The move tested me in every aspect – culturally, financially, and emotionally. I faced the heaviest burdens, but eventually, as they say, I saw the light at the end of the tunnel.
Amidst the chaos, I also experienced the highest peaks. It’s like Newton’s third law of motion: “For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.” This principle resonates deeply with life’s ups and downs – in confronting our toughest moments, we often discover our greatest rewards. Through persevering through the hard times, I was able to understand myself better and shape the woman I have become. And I have to say, I like this version of myself.
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 British Persian actress, writer, and producer now based in Los Angeles. My journey in the arts started professionally with the National Youth Theatre London. There, I had the privilege of collaborating with incredibly talented individuals who opened my eyes to the richness of the artistic world.
In London, I dived into various theater productions, such as portraying Celia in Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” at Pleasance Theatre and bringing Maureen to life in “Katzenmusic” at the Royal Court. Additionally, I co-starred as Sheila in the independent film “Bitter Tears of Zahra Zand.”
Currently, I’m thrilled to be doing voice-over work on a Netflix cartoon series. My journey as a producer and writer began in London, where I wrote comedy sketches and produced them for a Persian television channel. Now, I’m producing my own pieces of work. Recently, I wrote and produced a solo show called “The Godmother.” Inspired by the notorious life of Griselda Blanco, this gripping drama explores the blurred lines between villainy and heroism, love and morality, in a tale of power, sacrifice, and the indomitable bond between mother and son.
Coming from a multicultural background has really enriched my storytelling and enabled me to bring unique perspectives to my work. I’m deeply passionate about what I do. Acting, writing, and producing; they all intertwine and complement each other.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up.
Some of my fondest memories are from family gatherings where I’d take center stage, dancing, singing, and putting on a show for everyone. Those moments of laughter and joy are etched in my heart as some of the sweetest times of my childhood. For as long as I can remember, I was always playing pretend.
I vividly remember imagining myself as anything I wanted to be, just like most kids do. But what made it extra special was feeling like I had a whole crew and audience right there with me – and that was my family.
With my mum behind the camera, capturing my every move, it felt like stepping into different worlds with each scene she directed. My mum has always been my biggest cheerleader. She encouraged my creativity and nurtured my love for entertaining. Back then, I didn’t quite understand the concept of a career in ‘playing pretend’ – I was just a kid, believing I could be anything from a superhero to a mermaid.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/melinafarahani
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melinafarahani/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/melina-farahani-9b998a108
Image Credits
@hullisbeautiful
@thatdapperphotographer
@scottdennis_photography
@alien_photo_
