Recent Graduate and Newly Hired Nickelodeon Production Assistant

September 2023, Interview facilitated by Tracey Miller-Zarneke

What is your earliest memory of being interested in animation?

When I was 7 years old, I distinctly remember watching Finding Nemo with my dad, and then turning to him saying, “I want to make movies like this someday.” It’s something we still talk about to this day, and I still love watching all the new animated content with him.

Who or what inspires your work?

The desire for more diversity in the industry! As an Indian woman, I am very passionate about representation in the animation industry, and hope to facilitate the production of stories that will connect with people from all around the world.

Why is an organization like Women in Animation important to you?

I love everything WIA stands for. I am a huge advocate for representation in the animation industry, and I really appreciate the opportunities and safe space WIA has created for women like me who are breaking into the industry.

How long have you been a member of WIA?

Since my sophomore year of college, 2019. My professor introduced me to the organization, and have tried to be as engaged as possible since then.

What have you enjoyed most about being part of WIA?

The community! I have met so many incredible people through WIA who I can now call genuine friends. WIA has also given me the opportunity to start a student chapter at my college, and connect with an entire group of individuals at school who I might not have even run into otherwise.

Where are you studying?

I just graduated from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York with a BFA in 3D Animation.

What part of your studies have you enjoyed the most?

As a 3D Animation student in college, I had the creative liberty to tell the stories I want to tell, the way I want to tell them. Being involved in all stages of production on multiple projects has given me an appreciation for every stage of the production pipeline! I will also say that the people were really the best part of the learning process. I loved being surrounded by creative and hardworking individuals, and I was constantly inspired by my classmates.

What do you see for yourself in 5 years? 10 years?

I hope to make my way up the Production Management pipeline and eventually reach my goal of being a Producer for projects that tell meaningful stories that impact people from all around the world. I also hope to have at least three huge dogs.