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For Brugel, the importance of having a firm understanding of identity has been developed through a lifetime of self-discovery. Adopted at am early age, she was made aware of both her ethnic and family identities.

"Growing up I was never allowed to discount any facet of my heritage or lineage," Brugel said. "It's important for me to treat every aspect of my background equally. My father is African-American, but I've never met him. I was adopted by the man I speak of as my father, who is half Jewish and half Indian. My mother was born in England and made her way to Canada, so there is this eclectic mix of cultures and histories."

Unlike many in the television and film industry, Brugel's road to 'the biz' was initially relatively easy. Coaxed by a drama teacher to try out for the school play, Brugel landed the lead role playing Anne in Anne of Green Gables. With the offer of a full scholarship, she was soon at York University, flexing her theatrical muscle with other young visionaries.

But soon after graduation, Brugel quickly realized that the multicultural, insulated world of campus theatre bore little resemblance to the global stage.

"After my first two jobs, for the next five years there was almost nothing," Brugel said. "During that time it was difficult, especially when it came to auditioning. Agents would see my colour and not understood why I spoke a certain way. In a lot of cases it would from casting directors, and often African-American female casting directors. There was this thinking that a girl who grew up half-white, half-Jewish, all over Canada, couldn't relate to certain black roles or to the plight of ghetto."

One night while debating whether to continue with her acting career, Brugel's then-boyfriend (and now fianc�©) confronted her with a stark realization.

"My fianc�© looked at me and said, 'Well you say that you are going to leave the business, but when have you ever really been a part of the business?' Until that point I think it was like I was playing dressup. So I came up with a business plan and started taking my auditions more seriously. I began to market myself and got my website going, I just changed the way I looked at the business side of things."

Brugel's new approach has had tremendous results. Her new energy has grabbed the attention of casting agents thrilled by the unique flavour she brings to the screen.

Since her transformation, she's landed plum gigs including a recurring role on the CBC TV series MVP. The career shift she is now experiencing is a much-welcomed trend, and Brugel is intent on using her newfound opportunities to secure a future in the industry that she loves.

"I know that I have a limited time in which to make my mark as an actor," she said. "I want to be producing and writing within the next few years. I also want to give other actors a chance to really take advantage of our beautiful craft. There are so many wonderful people who will make a difference in our business and there are so many great stories to be told."

Jon Sarpong is a Diversity Consultant. He provides independent diversity training and consultation for various organizations. To suggest a story idea for Panorama, e-mail jsarpong@hotmail.com.