Hello Mentor S2 EP9 | Reuben Kang’s Secrets to Viral Storytelling: Insights from a Master Filmmaker
In this exciting episode of Hello Mentor, we’re joined by the talented Reuben Kang, a visionary writer-director and master storyteller—best known for his work on JinnyboyTV and as the founder of Imagineers Film.
By Kimberly Chang on 2024-10-22 at 2:27 AM
Updated on 2024-10-22 at 3:28 AM
8 Leadership Lessons from Reuben Kang: Mastering the Art of Storytelling in Malaysia's Creative Industry
In this episode of Hello Mentor, renowned filmmaker Reuben Kang reflects on his journey from YouTube creator to an influential leader in Malaysia’s creative industry. Along the way, he shares seven valuable lessons for mastering storytelling, improving creative skills, and building leadership qualities essential for career success.
Reuben Kang, a visionary writer-director and master storyteller, has spent over 20 years bringing heartfelt stories to life. Best known for his work on Jinnyboy TV and as the founder of Imagineers Film, Reuben has created memorable web films for major celebrations like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, and Merdeka.
Reuben takes us behind the scenes of his creative journey, sharing surprising stories and revealing how he balances artistic vision with the pressures of creating content that resonates with millions. He dives into his unique creative process and how his upbringing shaped his authentic storytelling style, while debunking the common misconceptions about the filmmaking world.
Whether you're a storyteller, filmmaker, or just a fan of inspiring journeys, this episode is filled with insights you won't want to miss!
1. Start Small: The Key to Breaking into Creative Industry
One of Reuben’s core beliefs is that success in creative work lies in the act of doing, not fantasising. Aspiring filmmakers should focus on making small, meaningful projects—whether through internships or side gigs—rather than waiting for the “perfect” opportunity.
“Instead of saying, 'I want to be a director,’ just start making films. The act of doing is more valuable than waiting.”
This practical approach reflects a key takeaway for breaking into the creative industry in Malaysia: start small, learn continuously, and grow your skills through real-world experience.
2. Embrace Malaysia's Multiculturalism
Reuben attributes much of his storytelling success to his multicultural upbringing. Exposure to different communities has given him a richer perspective on crafting relatable stories.
“The best stories are born from understanding diverse perspectives.”
In the creative industry, stories that resonate across cultural lines tend to perform well. Aspiring storytellers can sharpen their storytelling skills by immersing themselves in Malaysia’s diverse cultures and actively engaging with people from different backgrounds—listening to the voices within them.
3. Resilience is Key to Overcoming Creative Challenges
Ruben shares how his first feature film faced tight deadlines and critical feedback, teaching him to manage setbacks constructively:
“I learned the hard way that setbacks are part of the journey. The key is to keep going and grow from the feedback.”
Working in filmmaking and advertising comes with setbacks, from budget cuts to creative disagreements.
“When you face challenges, push forward and use setbacks as lessons to evolve.”
Ruben's own journey reflects the need to stay adaptable. During tight production timelines, he learned to manage stress and evolve his creative strategies—a valuable lesson for those navigating the ups and downs of the creative world.
4. Find Your Community: Surround Yourself with the Right People
Success in Malaysia’s creative industry requires a strong network. Ruben credits much of his growth to the mentors, colleagues, and collaborators he has met along the way.
“Filmmaking isn’t a solo endeavor; you need a community you can rely on.”
In fact, peer-to-peer learning is often the best way to develop new skills and gain valuable insights. This is why initiatives like the Young Leaders Community exist, bringing ambitious individuals together to share experiences, build meaningful connections, and grow in their careers. Communities like this offer invaluable opportunities for creative professionals to learn from one another and find inspiration along the way.
5. Craft Stories with Purpose: Align Creativity with Brand Goals
Reuben explains that balancing creativity with practicality is crucial in professional storytelling. He emphasises the importance of working with a purpose, especially when collaborating with brands.
“It’s not just about creative expression—it’s about aligning your ideas with what the brand wants to achieve.”
For creative professionals in Malaysia, mastering this balance is essential for creating impactful work that meets both artistic and business goals. Brands increasingly value storytellers who can connect authentically with audiences while driving business outcomes.
6. Balance Creativity with Practical Needs
Creative jobs often involve balancing artistic expression with financial realities. Reuben candidly shares that his production company works closely with brands to keep their business sustainable while maintaining creative integrity:
“We love filmmaking, but we also understand that brands have specific objectives. The key is to align creativity with their goals.”
For professionals in Malaysia’s creative industry, success comes from finding this balance between passion and practicality. A key part of maintaining this balance is understanding how you naturally approach work. Some creatives thrive in highly structured environments, while others excel with flexibility and autonomy. Knowing your creative style helps uncover how you work best—and how to lean into your creative potential to thrive in the right environment.
7. Leadership is About Enabling Others to Thrive
Ruben’s leadership philosophy centers on empowering others to thrive. He advises aspiring leaders to immerse themselves in communities and understand the realities faced by the people they aim to serve.
"Leadership is about enabling others to grow—not about control."
Developing leadership skills isn’t just about gaining authority, it’s about understanding how to inspire and uplift those around you. Ruben’s message aligns with the idea that leadership in creative industry jobs involves collaboration and community-building.
8. Learn Continuously: Keep Evolving with Every New Project
One of Ruben’s most important lessons is the value of continuous learning. Whether through success or failure, every project presents an opportunity for growth.
“I’m constantly learning from each film I make—there’s always room to do better.”
For professionals in creative industry jobs, staying relevant requires evolving with new trends and technologies. Continuous learning is a key strategy for long-term success in an industry that is constantly changing.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Malaysia’s Creative Industry through Leadership and Storytelling
Ruben K’s journey exemplifies what it takes to excel in Malaysia’s creative industry—blending storytelling with cultural awareness and purpose-driven leadership. His experiences emphasise the importance of continuously evolving, embracing challenges, and staying connected to the heart of your craft.
Find a workplace that values your creative edge and empowers you to grow as a leader, only on Hiredly!
About Hello Mentor
Hello Mentor is a podcast offering candid conversations on entrepreneurship, career growth, and ambition. Each episode features inspiring individuals who share personal experiences and actionable advice.
Catch all episodes on Spotify or YouTube for more inspiration and career guidance from industry leaders!
By Kimberly Chang on 2024-10-22 at 2:27 AM