Filmmakers Making A Social Impact: Why & How Filmmaker Alex Henry Young of Dragon Studio Is Helping To Change Our World
Things take time. When I first moved here, I thought everything would happen instantly. I wanted success immediately, but looking back, the journey was the most precious part.
As a part of our series about “Filmmakers Making A Social Impact” I had the pleasure of interviewing Alex Henry.
Alex Henry is the founder and director of Young Dragon Studio, an independent production company based in Los Angeles. From a kid in Europe to an aspiring entertainer in America, Vuya’s adventures have just begun. Graduating from the University of California, Los Angeles this summer, he already has an upcoming feature film under his belt. We are excited to have the chance to talk to him.
Thank you so much for doing this interview with us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to get to know you a bit. Can you share your “backstory” that brought you to this career?
Born and raised in Belgrade, Serbia, I have always been fascinated by the media and film industry. As a kid, I attended acting and journalism school and even produced my own animation movies. I took a break to focus on my education. During my junior year of high school, I spent a semester abroad in London, UK. It was the first time I was exposed to various cultures in one place, and speaking English during that semester ignited my dream of working in Los Angeles in the film industry. After moving to the States, I studied the arts, focusing on directing, acting, and media management. This eventually led to the opening of my production company, Young Dragon Studio, in April 2024. Seeing my ideas come to life is surreal, and I’m thrilled to work in a field I’m passionate about.
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? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
I say, make mistakes! From my perspective, every “mistake” was a blessing in disguise. I look at them as plot points in my story, then move on. One of the funniest mistakes was doubting myself at times. It’s all part of growing up, I guess. The lesson I learned is to trust the process and believe in myself.
Who are some of the most interesting people you have interacted with? What was that like? Do you have any stories?
Coming from Serbia, I’ve had the chance to meet some iconic film actors I grew up watching, such as Nikola Djuricko, Rade Šerbedžija, and Vlade Divac. One surreal experience was being at an award show next to James Cameron. That was definitely a “pinch me” moment.
Which people in history inspire you the most? Why?
Jesus Christ inspires me first and foremost for obvious reasons. Historically, the ancient Egyptians are a big part of my inspiration. I grew up watching and playing Yu-Gi-Oh! and became obsessed (and still am) with Egypt and the ancient world. So, I’d say the people from the ancient world inspire me a lot. Shout-out to my peeps from 1000 BC!
Let’s now shift to the main focus of our interview, how are you using your success to bring goodness to the world? Can you share with us the meaningful or exciting social impact causes you are working on right now?
My goal is to tell stories and create art that impacts people. Film has a huge influence on our reality, culture, and societal values. While I love fantasy and sci-fi stories, I’m also a fan of real, raw stories that everyone can relate to. I want my company to be a melting pot of stories from all over the world, bringing movie lovers together.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were actually going to step up and take action for this cause? What was that final trigger?
Moving from Belgrade to LA for the first time in 2019 was a major trigger. Experiencing LA and America as a teenager was eye-opening. Having the chance to pursue my passion was incredibly motivating. Initially, I wanted to be an actor, but after writing movies for some time and studying film and media production, my path evolved. This process of self-discovery led to something truly fulfilling.
Can you tell us a story about a particular individual who was impacted or helped by your cause?
I can’t pinpoint one specific person, but in general, all my friends and the people I’ve met along the way have been impacted. Meeting people from diverse backgrounds and cultures inspires me to express my individuality and culture.
This is the richest part of my life here.
Are there three things that individuals, society or the government can do to support you in this effort?
If you want to support me then I would say Invest in my studio (seriously, if you’re a wealthy individual interested in supporting the film industry, give me a call!). I’m always open to business partnerships and collaborations.For society and the government, I’d say relax, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show.
What are your “5 things I wish someone told me when I first started” and why? Please share a story or example for each.
- Things take time. When I first moved here, I thought everything would happen instantly. I wanted success immediately, but looking back, the journey was the most precious part.
- Classes will pay off. I took numerous classes in college, some I loved and some I didn’t, but they all taught me something valuable. You never know when that knowledge will come in handy.
- Discipline will get you far. Your lifestyle impacts your business success. Treat yourself like a professional.
- Doing things for the first time will be scary. Just go for it, no matter how bad it seems. The next time, you’ll be better prepared.
- Be present. I often daydreamed about the future and missed out on the present. Being in the moment is crucial.
If you could tell other young people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
Find your individuality and think outside the box. Be kind to yourself and others, and don’t be too hard on yourself. You will feel better and happier. Be the change you want to see; you’ve heard that one before.
We are very blessed that many other Social Impact Heroes read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would like to collaborate with, and why? He or she might see this. 🙂
I want to collaborate with passionate people interested in art.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
“Time heals everything.” This quote resonates with me as I graduate college. Reflecting on my journey, I realize how true it is. Time has helped me grow and reach where I am today.
How can our readers follow you online?
They can check my website www.youngdragonstudio.com and follow me on Instagram @alexvhenryy.
This was great, thank you so much for sharing your story and doing this with us. We wish you continued success!
Thank you for giving me this opportunity 🙂
Filmmakers Making A Social Impact: Why & How Filmmaker Alex Henry Young of Dragon Studio Is Helping… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.