Apple TungFong On Making Her Mark In The Global Entertainment Industry

Apple TungFong is the founder and CEO of LA-based media company, Entertainment Oxygen (eoFlix), a trusted streaming partner for film festivals to go hybrid and showcase indie films. Before founding Entertainment Oxygen in 2019, Apple was the senior vice president of Legacy Pictures. Apple has also worked as a producer. Her most notable projects include oo-producing with world iconic music composer Diane Warren on multiple seasonal albums for foreign artists from Hong Kong and China and was instrumental in putting together the first international film festival in China. She is a graduate of the University of Hong Kong.

We had the chance to interview this dynamic entrepreneur.

Tell us a little about your background.

My childhood was marked by a constant cycle of moving every few months to various locations, always within the vicinity of diverse military bases. I grew up in Hong Kong in a military family. This upbringing instilled in me a strong sense of discipline and an exceptional ability to adapt to my ever-changing surroundings.

How did you first get into the entertainment industry?

I never explicitly planned on ending up in entertainment. My story is a true testament to the saying, “What is meant for you will not miss you.” I just happened to be in the right place at the right time, and was introduced to a well known Hollywood producer. After chatting for a bit, we really hit it off. He went on to introduce me to some of his industry connections and the rest is history!

Describe your biggest career achievement so far.

I’ve been an entrepreneur since the age of 19. It’s been a lifelong journey to achieve milestones throughout my career. Always trying to improve, and aim for something bigger in the hopes it pays off. Truly, I am the proudest of Entertainment Oxygen and eoFlix. The global potential for my company to fix a broken system and connect creatives around the world is something I hold close to my heart. It’s my biggest achievement to date, and I’m sure Entertainment Oxygen will only continue to surprise me as we grow over the years.

What drives you to create?

At 16, a family friend of mine entrusted me with a copy of The Art of War. The book left an immeasurable mark on my life. It’s been a driving force in my creativity and strategic thinking. I’m eternally grateful for having read that book! It’s impacted the way I approach my business and life overall.

What shows/films are doing the best job of portraying strong women on TV?

I know this came out a while ago, but I really loved Patty Jenkins’ Wonder Woman! I think the movie did such a great job of giving women a new life on screen. Portraying that power comes from within. Also, getting to see a female superhero on screen was so inspiring! Definitely motivated me to go out and take control of my own destiny.

What is the biggest challenge to women in your industry?

I’ve been to tons of tech conferences, and the tech space has always been dominated by men. At times, the landscape can seem intimidating. With a limited number of role models and female mentors it’s easy to feel lost in the crowd. With perseverance, anything can be accomplished. I encourage more women to join the tech space, your perspective is needed now more than ever!

What do you do in your spare time?

I’m always creating! When you’re an entrepreneur, it requires a certain level of dedication. It really is a full-time job. Especially considering how fresh out of the gate we are, the business requires tons of dedication and focus. During my off time, I’m usually pondering on ways to improve my business. Ways to expand Entertainment Oxygen into a global brand and fix our fragmented entertainment ecosystem. Of course, I take breaks and spend time with family and loved ones whenever I can.

Predict your future! Where are you in five years?

In five years I hope to take Entertainment Oxygen public! That’s where I see I believe we’ll be if we keep on this trajectory of growth.