Editor’s Note: Welcome to “Reel Women,” our annual tribute to dynamic women in creative industries. For the month of March, let us introduce you to some very special women like healthcare visionary and Producer, Dr. Jacqueline Nguyen.
Dr. Jacqueline Nguyen, affectionately known as Dr. J, stands as a prominent figure in the realm of healthcare, spearheading innovative initiatives that underscore her visionary approach to wellness. With a distinguished degree from USC School of Pharmacy and a wealth of experience as a Clinical Compounding Pharmacist, Dr. J’s Natural emerges as a testament to her unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.
At the core of her philosophy lies a holistic approach to pharmacy, characterized by meticulous attention to detail, profound empathy for patients, a relentless pursuit of knowledge, and an unwavering dedication to leveraging cutting-edge treatments. This holistic perspective ensures that each individual receives personalized care aimed at fostering optimal wellness and vitality.
In addition to her groundbreaking contributions to healthcare, Dr. J has ventured into the realm of filmmaking as a co-founder of TINCOM MEDIA, a pioneering production company dedicated to crafting impactful and thought-provoking cinema. Serving as the executive producer of the new Vietnam/United States co-production, A Fragile Flower, Dr. J continues to push boundaries and amplify diverse voices through compelling storytelling.
Through her multifaceted endeavors, Dr. Jacqueline Nguyen remains a driving force for positive change, embodying a profound commitment to enhancing both individual well-being and societal awareness.
Let’s meet Dr. J!
What’s your origin story?
For the past 25 years, I’ve served as a clinical compounding pharmacist, but what truly fills my heart is being a health coach for my cancer patients. When doctors have given up hope, I step in to provide support and guidance, refusing to accept defeat.
How did you get into the film industry?
My journey into the world of moviemaking was sparked by a dire need for funding for a project close to my heart. When I heard the word “cancer,” I felt an immediate pull to lend my support. Working alongside director Mai Thu Huyền and scriptwriter Nhat Ha, I knew I had found my purpose in helping bring this important story to life.
Who were your mentors?
My greatest mentors are the women who have never accepted “no” as an answer, including my own mother Tam Phan and inspiring figures like Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie, and Ellen DeGeneres.
While there will be others, what do you consider your biggest achievement to date?
Producing A Fragile Flower has been my most challenging yet rewarding achievement. With dedication and determination, my team and I overcame obstacles to bring this groundbreaking Vietnamese/US co-production to audiences around the globe.
What drives you to create?
My driving force behind this project? A deep sense of Vietnamese cultural pride. As the first Vietnamese film to hit theaters in the US, Vietnam, and India, “A Fragile Flower” allows me to share my heritage with the world.
What is a product or service you dream of doing a campaign for?
Through my brand, Dr. J’s Natural, I’ve spent the last 15 years promoting health and wellness. As both creator and advocate, I’m committed to empowering others to lead healthy lives through supplements, skincare, and a positive outlook.
Who are you dying to work with?
My ultimate goal is to collaborate with visionaries like Oprah Winfrey or the savvy entrepreneurs of Shark Tank to make a positive impact on the world. Inspired by their strength and dynamism, I strive to emulate their success.
Award you crave, but haven’t won.
The award I aspire to achieve? An Oscar for my movie A Fragile Flower in the foreign film category. Winning such a prestigious accolade would be a dream come true, a moment I envision with gratitude and excitement.
Female-directed franchise films such as Star Wars or MCU constantly get called “woke” by Internet trolls. Why?
In a male-dominated film industry, my executive team and I have defied expectations and shattered barriers. With a “take no prisoners” mentality, we’ve proven that anything is possible, earning us the title of trailblazers.
Coffee, Lunch or Happy Hour
Whether it’s sharing a coffee with my Angelina Jolie or Jennifer Lopez, discussing health advocacy over lunch with Michelle Obama, or letting loose at happy hour with Oprah or Ellen and my girlfriends, these are the moments I cherish and hope to experience.
It’s an election year, what is keeping you up at night?
Politics may not be my favorite topic, but what concerns me most is the future leadership of our country. As America’s role on the global stage hangs in the balance, our choice of leaders will shape the world’s perception of us.
Favorite movie and TV show of 2023
My favorite movie of 2023 was Oppenheimer, and as for TV shows, there were many contenders.
Band or singer you would ditch your career and go perform with.
If I had to choose a band or singer to perform with, it would be any of the hot K-Pop bands out there.
What’s your theme song for 2024?
As for my theme song for 2024, I can’t help but be partial to the tunes from A Fragile Flower that have accompanied me through countless edits and late-night sessions Sway, Vien Membrasser, and Cowboy Rhinestone.
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