Jessica Orcsik Arts Scholarship

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Pablo Picasso once said, "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up" 

As a little girl, I would watch movies and listen to music, dreaming about the day I would become an actress and storyteller living in Hollywood.  In 2004, that dream became a reality and I ventured across the other side of the world to do just that. Young, alone, and an immigrant, there was nothing I wanted more than my American Dream. My confidence and determination was at its highest and the image of my future so real I could taste it. With 20 years of experience as a working child actor from a showbiz family, being awarded my VISA and a series of opportunities, I thought I was prepared for an exciting journey. 

Unfortunately the road ahead was far from what I had imagined. Instead of achieving my dream, I was challenged, as an artist, as a woman, and as a storyteller. I battled with Self Doubt; Self Sabotage; Fear of Success; Fear of Failure, Body Dysmorphia, #metoo movement; Sexuality identity as a Bi woman; Gender Equality; Mental Health; the importance of Mindset; Battling Addictions and most importantly Self Worth & Self Esteem. I limited myself from truly realising my potential and stepping into my rightful role, as a leader, that I now have the privilege to stand in. 

After 20 years in the United States, I look back to who I was and who I am now and I am beyond grateful. For I have battled, and continue to battle, to be the best version of myself and live in my inner child's artistic freedom and imagination. That is where true artists belong.  A place where anything is possible. If it weren't for my journey I never would have discovered this. For that I am thankful. This has turned out to be my American Dream. I