Rising Star Alex Burunova: “They say it takes 10 years in this industry to first see the fruits of your labor; be prepared to achieve your dreams with time”

Know that it’s a long game. A marathon — not a sprint. They say it takes 10 years in this industry to first see the fruits of your labor. And if you are a diversity storyteller, you might add a few more. Just be prepared to achieve your dreams with time.

I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Alex Burunova. An international traveler whose solo journey was highlighted in Conde Nast Traveler and exposed in her award-winning short LONELY PLANET, Alex is described by industry insiders as “one to watch” in the growing world of female directors. Alex Burunova’s short films have been showcased at over 60 festivals worldwide. Her one-hour pilot MEASUREMENTS for A&E’s new digital channel became the most watched series on the channel. Her latest film ENTER THE ANIME, shot and produced in Japan, just released on Netflix this month. Her mother Tatiana Burunova, a famous saxophone player from her native Belarus, traveled worldwide with a young Alex in tow. As a result, Alex’s unconventional upbringing and global perspective…