Inspired Performer: Celina Jade
Hollywood actress, singer/songwriter, model and martial arts expert Celina Jade is a master of many trades and is at the top of her game. She talks to Infiniti about what makes her tick, what and who inspires her and being so multi-talented.
Celina, you grew up in a household that was passionate about action fighting. Can you tell us a bit more about that?
Yes. My dad, Roy Horan, a student of Hwang Jang Lee and a martial artist, was the token bad 'white' guy in a lot of the old classic Chinese Kung Fu movies. He combined with my Mom, a real sweet lady without an action bone in her, resulted in my sis and I. Mom was upset for a long time at Dad for making us such tom boys. We started fighting and shooting at an early age. Boys never really knew how to place us.
As well as a martial artist, you are a singer/songwriter, model and actress. How do you juggle your time?
I sing/ songwrite/ model between films. Singing and songwriting have great crossovers with film... I've merged them by placing my own songs in films I've acted in in the past. It's also fun writing a song for a specific movie/ character. It helps you really get into character.
In terms of juggling, I believe every spare moment should be spent 'doing'. And that 'doing' something should take you closer to being a person you admire.
You obviously have an incredibly busy schedule. How do you like to spend your time off?
I love traveling when I have long periods off. I like hearing peoples' stories. It fascinates me. Short off-times I spend with my family and friends mostly... Im kind of a homebody. Although any activity involving the ocean refreshes me. So summers, boat trips and wakeboarding are the best!
What's your biggest motivation in life?
Two things: Connecting people. Inspiring people.
Connecting people because I really don't like the idea of separation. It's a lonely world when you see differences left and right.
It really motivates me when a person tells me I'm an inspiration to them. Many people see my decision to pursue my passion after graduating from LSE as an irrational and non-practical one. It makes complete sense to me! But other people don't seem to get it. So when somebody does get me and support my work, I feel really encouraged... I don't believe that life is just about getting by... I believe in truly living it cause every breath is a gift and it deserves to be received like one and let go like a present.
Who do you look up to?
My Mom, for being so generous and compassionate; my Dad for being so intelligent, fearless and adventurous and my sister for being unconditionally loving. It's a lot to look and live up to!
What and who inspires you or has most inspired you in your life?
So many people inspire me.
Oprah for being so connected with the world.
Whitney for having an amazing voice.
Meryl Streep for her ability to empathize and portray characters.
Obama oh 'yes we can'.
Jet Li for his love of the martial arts, his discipline and the One foundation.
... the list goes on...
I admire people who fight for what they believe in.
What's the most sage piece of advice you've ever received, and who gave it to you?
Dad once told me... discipline is the key to happiness... he's right. I hate to admit it. But he's right.
You are about to spend some time filming with Formula One World Champion, Sebastian Vettel. How are you feeling ahead of that, and are excited about being in a car next to him?
I'm stoked. Talent and drive is so sexy! haha
Do you drive? Does driving feature a lot in your life?
Yes I do. I love driving, actually! I feel free when I drive.
Infiniti is all about Inspired Performance and luxury. What qualities do you strive to achieve?
I strive to be a high performance ass-kicking vehicle that brings love, respect, hope and joy to people's hearts.
What are the values you hold most important in your life?
Family. Love. Compassion. Trust. Loyalty. Respect.
When did you first begin practicing martial arts?
As a kid, Dad, my sis and I used to play fight. I learned how to punch, kick, block as play at an early age, but didn't really formally train in Tae Kwan Do until I was 18. It was never a chore, just a way to express myself.
Is it difficult to train to remain at the top of each profession?
I don't really think like that. I just train wherever and whenever I can because I enjoy the process of training. I believe luck is when opportunity meets preparation. So training is my preparation.
Who is the most impressive martial artist you have worked with?
Wu Jing. He was my first co-star in Legendary Assassin. He could do things I never imagined a human body could do. He was so scientific about it too! He was a great teacher and coach!
Have you ever tried to merge several of your talents (acting, martial arts, singing) into one performance?
No, not yet. I don't know if there's a market out there for an action kung fu musical... what do you think?!