As part of the prestigious Asia Society Summit, Variety‘s Senior Artisans Editor Jazz Tangcay engaged in an insightful discussion with a powerhouse trio: Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, the president of distribution at Universal Pictures; Wendy Ong, the global co-president and chief marketing officer of TaP Music; and Julie Van, the chief operating officer of 100 Thieves. Together, they participated in the AWE Champions Panel, focusing on how they navigate the complexities and challenges of their respective industries during what many are calling one of the most volatile periods in entertainment history.
In an industry characterized by unpredictability, even seasoned executives such as Ong find their resilience tested. The pressures from gaming, movies, and music can be overwhelming; however, Ong draws strength from her profound love for music, the very passion that originally propelled her into this competitive field.
“You have to be smart and strategic,” Ong explained, “but it’s really important to find the passion. I think it’s easy to starve yourself if you’re just living off passion, but it is a key component of your diet.” Reflecting on her experiences, she shared, “Even today, I get upset and frustrated when my comments and ideas aren’t listened to. Sometimes, I’ve just had to let go and really pick my battles to maintain my sanity amidst the chaos.”
For Vandenberg, the role of president of distribution at Universal extends beyond mere logistics; it’s about fostering an inclusive environment where every team member feels appreciated and valued. She emphasizes the importance of creating unity within her team, striving to ensure that no one feels marginalized or overlooked, a sentiment echoed by Ong.
“I always try to understand and listen to everybody speaking with me,” Vandenberg stated. “Whether that’s my team, my colleagues, my leaders, or the clients and exhibitors that we negotiate with, by trying to find that common ground, I understand what motivates them. This approach can help me chart a path that brings us together, fostering collaboration and mutual support within the industry.”
How did each panelist convey their approach to resilience in the entertainment industry?
**Interview with Jazz Tangcay: Insightful Discussions from the Asia Society Summit**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Jazz! You had the opportunity to lead a discussion with some remarkable industry leaders at the Asia Society Summit. Can you tell us about the key themes that emerged during your talk with Veronika Kwan Vandenberg, Wendy Ong, and Julie Van?
**Jazz Tangcay:** Thank you for having me! It was indeed a privilege to speak with such accomplished professionals. One of the main themes was the resilience required to navigate the current volatility in the entertainment industry. All three panelists shared their unique perspectives on adapting to rapid changes, whether it be due to shifting audience expectations, the impact of technology, or the challenges brought on by the pandemic.
**Interviewer:** That sounds fascinating! How did each panelist approach the idea of resilience in their roles?
**Jazz Tangcay:** Each panelist brought a distinct approach. Veronika spoke about the importance of distribution strategies in reaching audiences effectively, especially in a time when traditional cinema releases are being challenged. Wendy emphasized the power of innovative marketing approaches to connect artists with fans in new ways. Meanwhile, Julie focused on the significance of building community partnerships in the gaming space to foster loyalty and engagement. Their insights highlighted that resilience often means being adaptable and embracing change.
**Interviewer:** Given the current landscape, what were some actionable strategies that the panelists suggested for industry professionals?
**Jazz Tangcay:** One major takeaway was the necessity for collaboration. All three panelists stressed that working together across sectors can help mitigate challenges. They also touched on the importance of data analytics in guiding decision-making processes. Additionally, they urged professionals to remain curious and open to experimentation, reinforcing that innovation is crucial during uncertain times.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like the discussion was both informative and inspiring! What do you think will be the next steps for these leaders and their industries moving forward?
**Jazz Tangcay:** While the landscape remains unpredictable, I believe these leaders will continue to push boundaries in their respective fields. For Veronika, the focus will likely be on redefining distribution models post-pandemic. Wendy will probably look to harness new media platforms for marketing strategies in music, while Julie will likely innovate with community-driven experiences in gaming. their willingness to adapt and explore new avenues will be essential in shaping the future of entertainment.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing these insights, Jazz! It sounds like the AWE Champions Panel provided valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of the entertainment landscape today.
**Jazz Tangcay:** Absolutely! It was an inspiring discussion, and I hope it encourages others in the industry to keep pushing forward during these challenging times. Thank you for having me!