Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Zambrano.
Hi Andrea, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Hi! My name is Andrea Zambrano. I am an Ecuadorian dancer and model passionate about creating and meeting amazing people through art. My journey started at 7 years old with Ballet Nacional Integrado (BNI) in Quito, Ecuador. It was here that I learned that there were multiple ways of expressing myself besides talking; as a shy kid, I always felt out of place everywhere I went. I thought there would never be a space for someone like me, always dreaming, always moving, always creating. BNI opened its doors and helped me with my development as an artist. But more than that, with my overall growth as a human being. During my time as a company member, I had the pleasure and privilege of performing at several national/international dance and performing arts festivals in some of the most important theaters and platforms throughout Quito, as well as renowned live T.V. shows and commercials.
At 19 years old, I moved to the U.S. to pursue an career in arts. I was still unclear as to where this journey would take me, the outcome, and where I would end up. But I did know that I had found my calling and would not stop until my dreams came true. For me to do that, I needed to complete my education. So, I enrolled in Seminole State College of Florida, where I obtained my Associate’s Degree in Arts, and after much work, determination, and drive. I graduated not only Cum Laude, but as a Member of the Grindle Honors Institute, and as Scholarship Officer for the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society.
As of today, I am pursuing a Bachelor’s in Entertainment Management, with a Mass Media Minor, at the University of Central Florida. I have participated as a Translator, Production Assistant, BTS Photographer, and Script Supervisor in several student films in the Orlando, area, such as “Tales of Sunshine, “Gene in a Bottle,” “Michelle,” and “The Well.” My most recent leadership experience includes working as a Director of Volunteers at the Orlando International Film Festival. I am proud of my journey, heritage, nationality, and aim to live my life with as much kindness, compassion, love, and empathy as possible.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
The road has been challenging! As an immigrant, we face more obstacles than most people can ever imagine. The hardest thing was being away from my family and culture. I was in new surroundings, and felt like I had to start all over again. At times, I felt unwelcome, bullied, isolated, and unwanted. But the beauty of being Hispanic is that we are raised with such resilience and an unbelievable work ethic; we will find opportunities where there are none. We’ll find a window where a door has closed, and contrary to popular belief, we will always work hard and strive to become the best version of ourselves while learning how to quiet the voices around us that keep telling us we’re unworthy. There are times when I have questioned myself. I’ve been scared; I’ve wanted to quit. I’ve wanted to leave everything behind and go back to Ecuador. But I am here. I am here on behalf of my previous generations, to ensure I honor them and make them proud. After all, without my parents, the rest of my family members, and my mentors – their love, support, and encouragement, I would not have come as far as I have. I would not be here. So, I must represent them well, and I must fight for what I want.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. What can you tell our readers who might need to be more familiar with what you do?
I am a dancer/bachata instructor and a model. I want my art to feel as inclusive as possible. Given the line of work that I am in, there are always discussions about who or what is enough. If you’re skinny, you’re pretty; if you’re a bit chubby, you’re ugly. I want to change that, especially within the modeling industry. I am against self-worth and self-love being heavily tied to how you look on the outside. So, whenever I create content, I want to spread positivity! To let others know they are beautiful, loved, and valuable the way they are now. I am most proud of my ability to adjust to any situation and my passion for learning about other cultures and points of view. As artists, we must continue learning and improving our skills and understanding of the world, as well as everyone we co-exist with. We are such a melting pot; there are so many beautiful people and places left to explore, that I want to ensure I come to these spaces with an open mind and heart; my ability to listen and be present sets me apart from others.
At this time, everyone is always worried about the likes they get, how many people follow their social media accounts; or always looking for the next best thing, the next project, the next opportunity. So often, people forget they are right in the middle of all they have ever wanted. This is why so many have been unhappy lately. If we take a second to be present, to practice gratitude and mindfulness, we can unlock so many other things that were meant for us. It’s also important to open our minds to the fact that we are blessed, that we have those things we want within each one of us. It’s just a matter of looking up and enjoying what we have.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
It took me a while to understand this, but the journey we take is fueled by the quality of people around us. Therefore, we must choose wisely.
If we want to be kind, we must surround ourselves with people with said mindset; if we want to be successful, we must look for those groups of people that have a routine that allows them to find success, and so on. It isn’t easy to strive in an environment where everyone around you is against your beliefs, or is not supportive of your goals. I have found therapy to be incredibly helpful. It has put me on a path and in a safe space where I can explore what I want, what I like, and what I want to accomplish. As well as what my boundaries are, what my red flags are, and so forth. I am shy, and networking or being social doesn’t always come naturally to me, and that’s ok! I’ve made it a point to challenge myself, and step out of my comfort zone (it’s the only way to grow), by looking for spaces or events that involve my interests and passions. I am much more comfortable with going to a social dance event or a model/photography meet up, where I am actively interacting random people, and exchanging ideas. This is how I have met most of the people and mentors I have now! Being in spaces where my creativity is welcome and I feel safe.
And then, social media comes into place! This is a great tool for exchanging information, getting to know these groups of people more, and seeing what they are up to. It inspires me to see their work, and pushes me to improve my art. It can be a double-edged sword, so I don’t use these tools as the end all be all. I use them as a booster. I try to not compare myself to others (and it’s been a journey!); It has also taken me a while, but each artist is different. Each has different sources of inspiration, goals, and approaches. But we all want to continue to be better than the day before. And to do that, we have to meet people from different walks of life, different skill sets, and different perspectives.
I also take everything I see or hear with a grain of salt. If someone says something to me that I could use, I accept that idea and shape it to fit my goal; I don’t let that information determine my journey. I use it to my advantage. Conversely, if I get feedback that is not useful, I filter it and move on!
I am always available and open to talking with other creatives and sharing what I have come to know and learn. So, If you want to be a model or learn to dance, my dm’s are always open! I like to help when I can. We are all a team.
Pricing:
- Bachata classes $30 per hour
- Model bookings $50 per hour
- Posing coach for models $50 per hour
Contact Info:
- Website: https://andreakzg95.wixsite.com/my-site
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrea_kzg/
Image Credits
Personal Photo: Mike Fried James L. Kira Schaubeck Mojo Photography Photos by Sunset
