Meet Pattama Tongphong | Model & Actress

We had the good fortune of connecting with Pattama Tongphong and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pattama, can you share the most important lesson you’ve learned over the course of your career?
The most important lesson I’ve learned in my journey as a model, actor in Chicago is this: learn to love failure.

When I was younger, I was afraid to fail. I kept my opinions to myself if they differed from others, and that fear of being wrong held me back. But over time, I realized that I grow the most when things don’t go as planned. Failure teaches me what doesn’t work and pushes me to try new approaches.

In acting, rejection is a constant. It’s part of the process, influenced by many factors outside our control. But what I can control is how I show up: staying prepared, reading every detail, checking lighting, and letting my personality shine. Each setback is a chance to improve and move forward smarter and stronger.

Failure isn’t something to fear—it’s something to learn from. It helps us evolve, refine our path, and ultimately grow into the best version of ourselves.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Right now, I’m a professional model and actor based in Chicago, IL. I grew up in a small town in Thailand, and when I look back on my life, I remember how deeply I dreamed of becoming an actor. But no one in my family had ever pursued a career in the arts, so I had no idea where to begin. Still, whenever there was a modeling competition, I always asked my mom and dad to take me. I never won—not even once—but I never stopped trying.

In 2017, I moved to the U.S. for school and to be closer to family. Eventually, I realized I wanted to give my dream one last shot—and that decision changed my life. I submitted to an open casting call with BMG Models, and in 2021, I signed with them. A year later, I joined Heyman Talent Agency. That was a turning point. I started booking work with major brands like Kohl’s, Meijer, HP, Nestlé-Purina , Herbal Essences, Cintas, OFF!, Rusk, and Radio Flyer.

Two of my latest campaigns, which I’m especially proud of, will be released at the end of this year: Home Chef x Peppa Pig (Lead) and Home Depot’s Feather River Door campaign (Lead).

Of course, the journey hasn’t always been easy. There was a time when I stopped auditioning altogether. I seriously considered giving up—this was right before I booked my SAG project and became SAG-AFTRA eligible. I remember feeling overwhelmed by rejection and self-doubt. But now, looking back, I realize those setbacks were building the strength I needed. They taught me resilience and helped shape my mindset for the bigger opportunities ahead.

When I came back to acting after that break, I approached everything differently. I invested in training, learned more about the industry, and took each step with purpose. That shift changed everything.

What I’ve learned—and what I want to share—is that magic doesn’t happen when we try to force things. It happens when we keep showing up. That mindset helped me relax, stay present, and start booking more work.

This year, I’m taking another exciting step by co-producing a short film called Time Will Never Tell, which starts filming in October. I’m working with a director Zach Bardwell I’ve collaborated with before, and I’ll be serving as an assistant producer on the project.

My journey is proof that it’s never too late to start, and that every step—even the hardest ones—can lead to something extraordinary.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Last year, my best friend came to visit me from Thailand, and I was so excited to show her around Chicago—especially my favorite neighborhood, Lincoln Park. It’s a beautiful area filled with charm, local gems, and a great mix of nature, food, and culture.

I planned a full day for her, from morning to night. We started our day at my all-time favorite coffee shop, Bourgeois Pig Café. It’s cozy, with vintage charm and great coffee—perfect for catching up and starting the day slowly.

After coffee, we explored the area. If you love live performances, Lincoln Park is home to some amazing theaters. Steppenwolf Theatre is one of my personal favorites, known for its powerful and intimate productions. We also visited the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park Conservatory—both free and beautiful places to walk around and enjoy nature right in the heart of the city.

For dinner and nightlife, Lincoln Park offers incredible options. I’m a huge fan of food, so I took her on a little culinary tour inspired by flavors from around the world:

Café Ba-Ba-Reeba! – A Spanish spot with amazing sangria and tapas.

Charoenkrung by Sathorn – A modern twist on Thai cuisine that reminded us of home but with a fresh, creative take.

The Pasta Bowl – A cozy Italian spot that feels like a comforting home-cooked meal.

To end the night, we went to Kingston Mines, my go-to place for live blues music. The energy, the music, the crowd—it’s the kind of experience you don’t forget.

Of course, I also made sure she experienced some of the iconic Chicago attractions. We strolled along the Riverwalk, tried authentic deep-dish pizza, and walked through Millennium Park, where she got to see “The Bean” and soak in the city skyline.

It was such a memorable time. Sharing the places I love with someone from back home reminded me how special this city really is—and how much beauty there is in discovering it through someone else’s eyes.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are three important groups of people in my life that I want to sincerely thank.

First, my family and friends—thank you for never once saying “no” to any dream I wanted to pursue. I grew up in a small family with limited resources, so having the courage to tell them I wanted to pursue a master’s degree in the U.S. was a big deal. But instead of shutting me down or doubting me, they supported me wholeheartedly. The same happened when I decided to pursue acting. Everyone knows how tough this path can be—especially as an immigrant—but instead of saying it was impossible, they told me, “You never know what could happen, so try it!” That support gave me the strength to keep showing up, take classes, and do my best in every audition room.

Second, my agents (BMG, Heyman Talent) and the casting directors —thank you for believing in me and continuing to open doors. I wouldn’t have earned my SAG-E status without your guidance, encouragement, and trust in my potential. Your support has made all the difference.

Lastly, to all my coaches—thank you for shaping me into the person and performer I am today. I truly believe that no achievement is possible without a strong team and hard work, and your mentorship has played a huge role in my growth.

Website: https://www.ptmmediallc.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pattama_official/

Image Credits
Credit: Claudia Hershner, Jennee Johnson