Support independent art. It’s where honest conversations usually begin. Create more accessible funding paths for emerging creators outside elite circles. Encourage arts education that values emotional intelligence, not just technical skill.

As a part of our series about stars who are making an important social impact, I had the pleasure of interviewing Alex Henry. Alex Henry is a writer, actor, and producer, and the founder of an independent production banner focused on character driven stories with global resonance. Raised between cultures and shaped by life in both Europe and the United States, his work often explores identity, belonging, and the human cost of ambition.

Thank you so much for joining us on this interview series. Can you share with us the backstory that led you to this career path?

First of all, thank you for this opportunity. If I’m being honest, my initial motivation as a kid was the celebrity lifestyle. I was fascinated by it. I wanted fame, attention, validation, all of it. Looking back, that mindset was pretty shallow, but it was real. At the same time, I genuinely loved acting and film. I believed that being popular or successful would automatically bring happiness, that external validation would make me feel complete. Over time, that perspective shifted. As I went deeper into the industry, I realized that what truly fulfills me is the act of storytelling itself, being present in the process of acting, making films, and creating characters people can genuinely connect with. If something I create helps someone feel understood or discover something about themselves, that’s what gives the work meaning for me. Honestly, I can’t picture myself doing anything other than something film-related.

It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? What lesson did you learn?

I don’t think I have enough time to list all the funny mistakes, that just comes with being young and inexperienced. One big mistake was thinking I knew everything. Another was believing that ambition alone was enough. No matter how big your dreams are, if you don’t take action, they stay in your head. You have to make a move, no matter how small it seems. Sometimes I catch myself overthinking past mistakes, what I should’ve done differently , but I try to be grateful for everything that went “wrong.” Every wrong turn leads you closer to the right path. There’s a saying I really like: “How differently would you hear ‘no’ if you knew it was leading you to your ‘yes’?” Or something like that…

What would you advise a young person who wants to emulate your success?

I wouldn’t tell anyone to emulate my “success.” Everyone should focus on finding themselves and figuring out their own path. Don’t chase the version of success you see online. Chase clarity. Learn who you are, what you care about, and what you’re willing to struggle for. Consistency beats talent, and self-awareness beats ambition without direction.

Is there a person who made a profound impact on your life? Can you share a story?

Definitely my parents. They raised me and gave me values that I still live by. Beyond them, my faith is very important to me. God has had the biggest impact on my life. That’s my foundation.

How are you using your success to bring goodness to the world? What meaningful causes are you working on right now?

I use storytelling to humanize people who are often reduced to labels, immigrants, outsiders, or people quietly struggling. My projects focus on empathy, accountability, and emotional honesty. I also try to mentor younger creatives, especially those who feel like they don’t belong in traditional systems. My latest film is about a man who could be anyone, just a guy living in this system, trying to figure his life out like the rest of us.

Can you share the story behind why you chose to take up this particular cause?

I’ve seen how quickly people are judged without context. I’ve lived it. Film has the power to slow judgment down and replace it with understanding. That’s why I focus on stories that sit in the gray area, where real growth happens. Also It’s something that people can relate to.

Can you share a story about a person who was impacted by your cause?

I wouldn’t say I’ve had a huge impact on people yet, but I’ve had people tell me that my work encouraged them to go after what they want, or that it made them feel like it’s okay to try. That alone means a lot to me.

Are there things individuals, society, or the government can do to support you in this effort?

Support independent art. It’s where honest conversations usually begin. Create more accessible funding paths for emerging creators outside elite circles. Encourage arts education that values emotional intelligence, not just technical skill.

What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started”?

1. You don’t need permission to begin.

2. Being uncomfortable often means you’re growing.

3. Not everyone will understand your vision, and that’s okay.

4. Progress matters more than perfection.

5. Integrity compounds faster than popularity.

If you could start a movement that would bring the most good to the most people, what would it be?

A movement of everyone helping each other, mentally, financially and spiritually. A world that rewards empathy as much as achievement. One where listening is considered strength, and vulnerability is not mistaken for weakness. I believe that alone could change how we lead, create, and connect.

Can you share your favorite life-lesson quote and explain why it’s relevant to your life?

“Be yourself, everyone else is already taken.” It sounds so cheesy and simple, but it took me years to stop performing versions of myself I thought others wanted. You don’t need to be liked by everyone, and you don’t have to please everyone and explain yourself for the way you are.

Is there a person you’d love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why?

Nikola Tesla, I wanted to see how his mind works.

Thank you so much for these amazing insights. This was incredibly inspiring, and we wish you continued success!

Thank you. I’m grateful for the opportunity and space to reflect and for the chance to keep building something meaningful.