Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Jessica Martins, who launched talent agency Hero Artists to help professionals in the film, TV and commercial industries take their careers to the next level. We caught up with Jessica to find out what inspired her career and where she sees herself in five years…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I started with my own business but recently I have partnered in other ventures – I’m starting to feel like an entrepreneur. I am the founder of Hero Artists, a talent agency operating in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal. Hero Artists represents talent in the film, TV and commercial industries. Also, I am a Partner and Producer with newly formed Lightbox Pictures, which procures financing for independent and studio films. More recently, I have become a silent partner in two companies; one within the real estate development sector and the other in bio-tech investments.
My main focus, and where I devote most of my time, is being an agent for the incredible talent that I represent (both in the US and Canada) with my team at Hero Artists. As a producer I have worked on films with budgets ranging from $5-90M, to raise equity financing, and I’m currently in development on a few very exciting films with incredible talent.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
My passion and heart lies in the film and television industry. I became an agent and founded Hero Artists because I love to help build and grow talent. That’s what drives me every day, that’s my inspiration. I initially wanted to become a psychologist, but my love for films and TV was too strong, so I figured I can combine the two. Being an agent allows me to motivate talent that I really believe in. Nothing is more rewarding than helping people’s goals come to life! I realized the challenges in producing films are very similar. In fact, I believe all actors should try to produce something on their own, from conception to completion, to learn what really happens behind the scenes – it is not as easy as it seems!
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part HAS to be working with my incredible team and having the opportunity to represent such great talent. At the same time, my position has allowed me to create close relationships with people that I look up to: producers, casting directors, photographers, directors, etc. The most challenging part is working in an industry that is constantly evolving and changing.
What is one sign that you’ve seen over the years to suggest that your work/life balance is off?
My phone rings 24 hours a day. But, I like to think that I am learning to balance my work/life better. To me, “working” is what I enjoy. I never use the word “working” in a negative way. The moment you do, I think that it is a sign that you are not doing what you love. Being from an immigrant family that has instilled a very strong work ethic, it is difficult for me to not consider my “work” as a part of my personal and social life. The only thing that could maybe use a little more balance is sleep.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Well, it would be fun to be an investor on Dragons’ Den or Shark Tank. I want to continue growing Hero Artists together with my partner and fellow agent Breann Thordarson. I see myself having produced some great films and learning from seasoned producers (and maybe win an Oscar while I am at it…) as well as continuing to align myself with successful companies that are making a difference. I will always seek out opportunities that allow me to constantly grow and improve in all aspects of business and life.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Starting a company is not something that can be taught, as there is no instructional step-by-step recipe, no guidebook. It is a lot of trial and error. I had to teach myself everything, and even though I have experience working with family businesses, branching out on your own ventures at 18 is no walk in the park. The first years were very tough but the important thing is to not be afraid to make mistakes. With these mistakes I was forced to learn very quickly and adapt. I realized that it was okay to not know everything and not get discouraged. Just like an actor who can audition a hundred times before landing a role, persistence is key.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
Success is feeling that you are constantly improving on a business and personal level. As long as I have that drive and surround myself with people that are like-minded, I believe that “success” will be a natural occurrence. Sure, making money is a way to quantify success, but as long as I am working toward achieving my goals and accepting the present, I am happy. Someone dear to me always reminds me that it’s important to constantly put things in perspective… after all, I am simply a spec of dust in a massive universe. All the stresses and issues that we go through on a daily basis become meaningless. There are much bigger issues happening around the world. I am humbled to be where I am today.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
I took a huge risk when I decided to separate from another company to create my own. That was possibly the most difficult and rewarding event in my career to date. I was very lucky to have my friend and partner, Breann Thordarson, and the support of our talent to launch Hero Artists Agency. I believe that my most memorable milestone has not yet happened but I have a strong inclination that it is right around the corner!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t be afraid to take risks! Make mistakes… just don’t do the same mistake twice. Surround yourself with people who are the best of the best and learn from them. Listen and soak it in. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and explore opportunities. You might hit a dead end, but more often than not, Gretzky was right when he said “you miss a hundred percent of the shots you don’t take.” Lastly, don’t take yourself too seriously and have fun.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
Ahh, this is tough… there are a few favorites of mine! My morning ritual is Jimmy’s Coffee. For dinner, I’d have to say that Rodney’s is my absolute favourite. In fact, I do have a dish (not on the menu) named specifically for me and I have been nicknamed “Scallop Girl.” The entire team there is attentive, food is always fantastic; they are like a family. It’s also a great place to take clients and loved ones.
When you’re not working, how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
I am a yogi! I practice yoga multiple times a week and love to swim. Up until recently, I was in intermediate ballet, all of which keeps me focused and centered. I love spending time with my loved ones, as well as travelling (although doing so is quite hard with my schedule). I read a lot of scripts (yes, this is “me” time) and I go on a lot of walks. As a former jazz musician, music and singing are also very important aspects of my life.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Well, I don’t think I’ve found my favourite place in the world yet but I have my favourite places for different reasons. Los Angeles always inspires me in many ways, but being Portuguese, I miss Portugal. My family was from a very simple fishing town and I often miss getting back to the basics. Also, I love the Greek Islands for their beautiful scenery, Spain and Italy for their music, history and incredible wines, Bahamas for the beaches. I am into anywhere that is next to an ocean and is over 20 degrees.
If you had to choose a theme song, what would it be?
Don’t Stop Believing by Journey.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
Wow, that is a tough one. I don’t think I would be in any other industry, but if I was, I would still run my own business. Maybe I would own a big cat sanctuary in South Africa or maybe I would have developed a product/idea to make millions. But to be honest, I am happy in the present and I am busy planting the seeds for tomorrow.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
The Humane Society. Also, I support the research of medical advances with associations that are important to my incredibly strong hero: my mother. And my loved ones. I support Arthritis Association of Canada, Mount Sinai Hospital, Heart and Stroke Foundation, CAMH, and Sick Children’s Hospital. Without these organizations, I would not be alive today.
What to you is notable?
Making something happen out of nothing WITH persistence and hard work.
Finding a balance between being confident AND staying humble.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Everything runs through my iPhone. And like other entrepreneurs, it’s practically glued to me.
#NOTABLE
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