From dropout to production lead: Turning detours into a creative career path

You don't need to follow the "right path" to build a purpose-driven career.

Sharissa Holopainen’s path from aspiring actor to accomplished production manager reveals how embracing your unique niche and passion can transform obstacles into opportunities. Navigating the complexities of international film production during a pandemic, she mastered bridging cultural gaps and leading diverse teams. Sharissa’s story shines a light on collaboration, adaptability, and uplifting others along the way.

Sharissa began her journey chasing childhood dreams of acting but quickly realized her true strengths lay behind the scenes. After a candid self-assessment during acting classes, she shifted her focus to production, where her love for problem-solving and storytelling could flourish. Her education at UC Irvine emphasized collaboration, a value she carries deeply as a production manager.

Her career took an unexpected turn with the pandemic, leading her to Finland where she spent five years working her way up through various production roles. Being bilingual and bicultural became a unique asset, allowing her to facilitate cross-cultural productions between American and Nordic teams. Sharissa learned that understanding different work ethics and communication styles is critical to a project’s success.

One of her most meaningful projects was the international co-production Code Name Onika, which introduced her to mentors and collaborators who helped shape her leadership style. Working on challenging shoots in remote locations reinforced her passion for coordinating complex logistics, aligning teams, and turning puzzles into finished films. Her leadership philosophy focuses on recognizing individual strengths and fostering purpose in her team.

Read more: Building a career with art, code, and community

Key takeaways

• There is no single “right path” in a creative tech career, finding and embracing your unique niche is key.
• Cross-cultural understanding and clear communication are essential when working on international, diverse teams.
• Effective leadership means uplifting others by identifying their strengths and giving them purposeful projects.

Conclusion

Sharissa’s journey embodies the power of adaptability, collaboration, and mentorship in creative industries. By leaning into her differences and passions, she not only navigated unexpected challenges but also became a beacon for others to find their way. Her story reminds developers and creators alike that success is built through connection, empathy, and lighting the path for those who follow.

Initially, Sharissa turned away from her Finnish heritage, but ultimately, her Finnish heritage was what propelled her success in managing cross-cultural productions by bringing diverse teams together. Her journey invites all of us to ask: What part of myself have I been pushing away that might actually be my greatest gift? Learn more about Sharissa Holopainen’s work and connect with her on LinkedIn.

More from We Love Open Source

• Breaking barriers with Python
• Building a career with art, code, and community
• From journalism to AI: Redefining yourself in tech
• Open source and opportunity: How to grow your career with the right support
• How a Linux Foundation fellow found purpose through curiosity, contribution, and community