Through our work we have been constantly amazed at the incredible things people in every neighborhood are working on. What’s even more exciting is that they all have different stories, backgrounds, strengths and weaknesses. That there isn’t a single formula for success means that everyone can take their unique set of strengths and characteristics and turn it into a success story. We recently reached out to some folks we admire and asked them what characteristics they feel are responsible for their success.

Candido Cornejo

Authenticity and education. I grew in casting working with various casting icons like Ronnie Yeskel (“Pulp Fiction”, “Reservoir Dogs”), Fern Champion (“The Mask”, “Mortal Kombat”), and Pam Dixon (“The Craft”, “The Mask Of Zorro”) so I was able to establish a respectable name for myself as far the quality of my work. I have access to movie and television stars and can prepare my creatives on how to reach them. But the more I did it, the more I realized what serious lack of authentic representation existed on our screens. Read More>>

Carson Fifer Brandyn Toney

My success is rooted in the sacrifices and love of the women who raised me. I grew up with my mother and grandmother—two incredibly strong, selfless women who gave everything to make sure I had opportunities they never had. Their work ethic, resilience, and unconditional support shaped the foundation of who I am today. Read More>>

Sean Daly

I’ve always loved creating spaces. As a deeply imaginative kid, I would build forts and set up clubhouses anywhere I could. My sister and I used to play restaurant and saloon bar, taking turns setting tables for invisible customers, mixing imaginary cocktails, and presenting them with plenty of accouterments. Read More>>

Sara Amirkhani

The most important factor behind my success as an artist has been my persistence in exploring and refining my own visual language. Coming from a painting background and expanding into photography and design, I’ve consistently sought to stay true to my artistic vision while being open to growth and experimentation. My work is deeply influenced by cinematic aesthetics and personal identity, and I think my ability to translate those internal narratives into compelling visual forms, no matter the medium, has helped me connect with others and create meaningful work. Read More>>

Elias Posada

I think a huge factor in anyone’s success, but I can say for sure for mine, is just being a good person. Talent and experience go a long way, but in this industry you are always working as part of a team. My goal is to prioritize collaboration and relationship building, respecting the knowledge, experiences, and time of others. The diversity of skill and perspectives are what contribute to a project’s success.  Read More>>

Alexandra Klein

For a long time, success felt like a race I didn’t remember signing up for.

There was this invisible bar I was always trying to reach, some moving target of “enough” shaped by comparison, culture, and quiet internal pressure. Even when I worked hard and achieved things, that unease didn’t go away. Especially in a city like LA, it’s easy to fall into the trap of measuring worth by what’s visible. But that version of success often pulls us away from our own truth. Read More>>

Jarnael Dabney

My 2 kids. My daughter who’s 17 and my son, who’s 5 they are the most important factor behind my success because any time I have even had the slightest thought of stopping I thought of my kids and the life that I envisioned for them and I just go harder at building my brand . I have stayed focused and determined because of them, that is the only motivation I need to get to where I’m headed. Read More>>

Drew Iwankiw

The most important factor behind my success and brand is having passion, authenticity and consistency. Staying true to my vision, being intentional about building genuine connections, and showing up consistently in my work have been key. The success of AR FIRM—has always been a unique focus of creative vision and a willingness to keep evolving. Faith also plays a major role. Trusting my journey, even when the path isn’t clear, has helped me push through challenges and continue building. Success wasn’t overnight, but staying purpose-driven, resilient, and open to learning has been my winning formula. Read More>>