Founder Magazine
Aayushi Bhargava is a name that resonates deeply within the entertainment industry. As the Head of Talent Operations at Media Artists Group, she has made an indelible mark on the world of talent representation, working tirelessly to help actors grow their careers and achieve their dreams. With her unwavering passion for storytelling and a keen eye for talent, Aayushi has transformed the way talent is managed and promoted, not just in the U.S., but globally, with a special focus on international markets like Asia and India.
Aayushi’s journey into the entertainment industry was not a traditional one. She began her career as an Entertainment Journalist, an experience that gave her a deep understanding of the media and entertainment worlds. Her time as a journalist helped her develop a nuanced perspective on how the industry operates, and how talent is shaped, showcased, and connected with the world. However, it was her transition into the role of a Talent Agent Assistant at National Talent LA that ignited her passion for talent representation. In this role, she was responsible for promoting clients, securing auditions, and helping them secure endorsements, which helped her gain valuable insight into the intricacies of talent management.
Her success at National Talent LA opened the doors for her current role at Media Artists Group. Starting as a Talent Coordinator and Junior Talent Agent, Aayushi quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the industry. Her role involved managing talent files, organizing auditions, and connecting directors, actors, and agents to ensure the smooth operation of the talent pipeline. But it was her dedication to helping actors succeed and her drive to find exciting opportunities for them that set her apart from others in her field. Over time, Aayushi’s talent for identifying and nurturing promising actors became evident, and she worked her way up to her current position as Head of Talent Operations.
At Media Artists Group, Aayushi has played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of actors across the globe. With a keen eye for potential and an innate understanding of the industry’s trends, she has helped numerous actors break into highly competitive markets. What sets Aayushi apart is her ability to look beyond the U.S. and tap into international opportunities. A strong believer in the importance of diversity and inclusion, she has worked tirelessly to ensure that talent from all backgrounds is given a platform to succeed, especially in emerging markets like Asia and India.
Media Artists Group, which was founded in 1983, has established itself as a leading talent agency with a rich history of nurturing talent and making a significant impact in the entertainment industry. The company represents actors, directors, writers, and other creative professionals, helping them secure key roles in movies, TV shows, commercials, and other forms of entertainment. Under Aayushi’s leadership, the company has expanded its reach into international markets, positioning itself as a globally recognized agency that is committed to promoting diverse voices and stories.
Aayushi believes that talent agents play a crucial role in shaping both the entertainment industry and society at large. By identifying and promoting fresh talent, agents contribute to the growth and evolution of the industry, while also helping to bring new and diverse stories to audiences. These stories, in turn, can shape culture, challenge norms, and inspire change. The impact of an agent’s work extends far beyond the confines of the entertainment world, as the content they help create influences the way society perceives itself and its values. In this way, Aayushi sees her role not just as a business function but as a form of social contribution.
The entertainment industry, however, is not without its challenges, and Aayushi has faced her share of struggles along the way. One of the most significant hurdles she encountered was the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought the global entertainment industry to a standstill. Productions were halted, projects delayed, and opportunities for actors became limited. The situation worsened with the SAG strike, which further disrupted the industry. But instead of succumbing to these challenges, Aayushi adapted. She recognized the importance of resilience and flexibility and worked hard to maintain strong relationships within the industry. These qualities allowed her to navigate the uncertainty of the pandemic and the strike while continuing to advocate for her clients.
On a more personal level, Aayushi has had to learn how to balance her professional and personal lives. The demands of managing a growing client roster and overseeing a dynamic business can often be overwhelming, but she has learned to prioritize self-care and set boundaries to prevent burnout. The support of her mentors, including Raphael Berko, CEO of Media Artists Group, and Robin Nassif, Head of the Youth Division, has been invaluable in helping her navigate the tough times. Aayushi credits their guidance and belief in her potential as key factors in her career growth.
As an entrepreneur, Aayushi has also learned some critical lessons. One of the most important is the need for persistence. In the entertainment industry, rejection is inevitable, but Aayushi has learned not to be deterred by it. She views each “no” as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and move closer to the next opportunity. This perseverance has not only helped her professionally but has also contributed to her personal growth. She understands that success doesn’t happen overnight and that every setback is simply part of the journey.
Looking to the future, Aayushi is optimistic about the growth of Media Artists Group. With a solid foundation in Europe, the company is now expanding into the burgeoning entertainment markets of China, India, and other parts of Asia. These regions are poised for tremendous growth, and Aayushi sees this as an exciting opportunity to connect her clients with global opportunities. By doing so, she hopes to foster cross-cultural collaborations and contribute to the diversity of global entertainment.
