The Sunday Times Magazine > Filipino Champions
JFERRER inspires Filipino Americans to pursue their passion

THE THOUGHT JUNKIE

Southern California Filipino Creative Director JFERRER is encouraging Asian- Americans everywhere to pursue their passion through his documentary, 'Do What I Want.'

A 'documentary conceived by a local creative about other local creatives,' his ultimate goal was to create the 'Asian Avengers of the Creative world.'

He shared, 'I wanted to find up and coming artists and capture the making of heroes. This project gives a raw glimpse of success in motion. What makes it original is that it documents these rising stars on their way to the top.'

'These artists are in the thick of the battle to be seen and they are setting a new standard not only as Asians in the community but Asians in the creative industry. This documentary examines different areas of creative art from music artists, to a fashion stylist, fashion designers, visual jockey, a choreographer, music producer, and a creative director. 'Do What I Want' highlights each selected artist's talent and work, but also takes into account the reality of being a Creative and the need to churn out creative juices while working a regular 9 to 5 job. The artists are relatable and share the challenges and barriers they went through to make it to where they are now,' JFERRER continued.

And this is a story that he is familiar with saying, 'Four years ago, I was in high school starting out in Film. My community was not too diverse and though my family still was in touch with our Filipino roots and I was exposed to Asian culture through the Karate world, I didn't consider being Asian a big part of my identity. In college, I became more involved with Asian social culture. Many of my friends were pursuing careers in the STEM field and they questioned my decision to be in Film. At first it made me wonder if I was making the right decision. Then, the more I witnessed the immense talent of the Asian community, the more I had the urge and passion to showcase their art through my own art.'

When asked what inspired him to write, produce, and create the documentary, he said, 'Making money doing something creative was usually just a side hustle for many Asians. But why just a side hustle? Why couldn't it be our full-time career? Unfortunately, even Asians themselves endorsed the stereotype that the medical field was the only way you could make it in life. I wanted to eliminate the fear of choosing what you want to do and going against the grain. You can do what you want and be just as successful if not more, in life. I wanted to create this documentary to highlight a community of like-minded individuals who made it past the barrier of being what we were told we couldn't be.'

'Each artist in my documentary is a driven and passionate individual that wants to leave a footprint in the creative world. They are the very representation of why this documentary is being created - to showcase Asian creatives who challenged the stereotypes, parental and peer pressure and are on their way to making a name for themselves. That is where the title 'Do What I Want' comes into play, because the people in this documentary chose their own path. They broke free from societal pressure, and did what they wanted. 'Do what I Want' is also in collaboration with production company Black Hazard,' he added.

At the end of the day, his only hope is to inspire.

'I hope 'Do What I Want' empowers the Asian and Asian American community to realize and pursue their true passion and not buy into the cookie cutter lifestyle. I hope Asian American youth feel a connection to these artists and see their future selves,' JFERRER finally said.

Filipino American creative director JFERRER