In conversation with Rina Varughese

1.     Introduce yourself

My name is Rina Varughese. I am an artist, mother, wife, friend, daughter. I have been in the creative industries for as long as I can remember. I have been working in film for at least 15 years. 

2.     What is your job title?

Director, DEI Creative Programming

3. Who looks after the kids when you are working?

We have an amazing year-long preschool our daughter attends called Harmon Oaks. The teachers are incredible.

4. How long did you take off work after having your baby?

4 months.

5.     Would you say that you have a good work/life balance?

Absolutely not. I don’t think I ever had a good work/life balance. My work is constant. I carve out time for my family, but almost never carve out time for myself. 

6.     Are you job-sharing or working flexibly?

My job is extremely flexible with where I work. That said, I am the only person doing creative programming at the current company I work for, so I have many responsibilities. If I don’t do the job, there really isn’t a person under me to pick up the slack. 

7.     What do you think is the hardest part of being a working/industry parent?

I don’t think America makes it easy to be a parent. I don’t know if this is an “entertainment industry” specific thing, or if this is an American thing. Child care is extremely expensive. It is difficult to turn-off from your job. There is definitely a culture of “your job is your life” in entertainment. 

8.     What are your tips for any other women out there wanting to have kids and keep a career in film?

My advice is to do it. If you want kids, don’t wait for the “right moment,” because that may never come. Our industry makes us feel like we can’t slow down, we can’t take a break, “you are only as good as what you do next”... In the end, life will figure itself out. You will figure out where you land. You can’t get back time to have a baby. Being a mom has been the greatest job of my life. 

9.     Any advice for anyone about to return to work after maternity?

My advice is to find people who have the same values as you about family and work-life balance. I have worked for high-profile companies, mostly male-run. They have been extremely not understanding of the barriers and the obstacles you can face as a working parent. Every human deserves to have balance, whether they be parent, coupled or single. There are people, bosses, organizations that will respect their employees having that balance more than others. 

10.  What advice did you wish someone had given you?

The universe always has a way of figuring things out for you. A big loss can sometimes be the best thing for you. You have to trust in the universe that you will end up exactly where you belong. Also, never hold on too tight to the idea of what you are supposed to be or become. It’s important to keep your mind open to all possibilities.