Today we’d like to introduce you to Nikki LaShae.
Nikki, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began as an artist, grew as an artist, and now work as an artist. My earlier arts were writing and music. I was a quiet kid but found a way to express myself on paper. I taught myself piano at 14 and guitar at age 16. By my senior year of high school, I was deep into modeling and dance, but I ultimately found my forever with acting, getting my start in a theater that same senior year. I studied theatre at Georgia State University, under the tutelage of some pretty passionate instructors who left no room for fluff. From there, I worked on large studio projects as a pro dancer and had some nice padding for my resume when I officially crossed over as a working professional as a film actress. Along the way, I founded a charitable organization, The Love Effect.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been easy, but what path is it? The hardest part was conquering my own limiting self-beliefs, replacing them with the truth that I’m AMAZING-and STAYING in that place. It takes practice. There are so many variables that have nothing to do with you that appear to be rejection. And it’s easy to internalize these things and wear them as defeat. I really had to have a sit down with myself and define how I wanted to feel, how I wanted to show up as I pursue this path. Also, as you evolve, you begin to realize your potential, and the journey of expansion and experimenting is a whole ‘nother thing to master as far as managing fear… and believing in yourself. That it’s ok to be the first, it’s ok to do it differently. It’s ok to trust yourself. Above all of this, my connection to my work is what sustains me. Time knowing that I am this gifted in this art for a reason much bigger than me. And because of that, I have a responsibility to see this thing through. I owe it to myself to use all the tools I’ve been given and see what I can build.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a filmmaker and founder of a charitable organization. I founded The Love Effect seven years ago to connect with people who are without homes and resources and offer hygienic supplies, love, and fellowship vis our care bags. Each care bag contains a handwritten love letter. The team of volunteers walk and fellowship. We laugh and we cry together. We talk about dreams and learn about each other. The Love Effect began in Atlanta, GA, receiving support from the community and businesses like Kroger and Wing zone. Our donations grew, our volunteers grew, and we were able to assemble over 330 care bags for the Atlanta area. Whatever I do, is done in authenticity and with the understanding that as I do this thing I love and am passionate about, I am also of service to others. This is the exact way I feel about my art when I’m on stage or onset. I know that I’m telling somebody’s story. I know that my vessel, my voice, is being used to call attention, stimulate thought, generate conversation, heal, bring joy, etc etc. I’m on that stage, on that screen, because somebody needs to hear the story that is coming through me.
As an actress and entrepreneur and I am always in creation mode. I recently did a Super Bowl commercial, which was super exciting because I had so much fun auditioning for it, it never felt like a job in the first place. And to be a part of an event of that magnitude-just, wow. I perform on stage and on screen, and each keeps me sharp for the other. I know a lot of actors like to do either, but I feel it’s important to stay connected to the craft of acting, the “going for the gusto” that only theater can give you. And the intimacy, the truth that film requires of you, is absolutely beautiful. It’s the ultimate study of the spectrum of human emotion. People know me for my dramatic work, mostly. When a filmmaker needs someone that can tap into emotional depth, I get that call. I’m honored. I have had wonderful coaches, fellow actors, and amazing directors that made it safe for me to navigate and bring the truth to the surface. I’ve done projects, big and small, and am excited for the projects I am working on now. But I am simply proud to be a storyteller.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
The best way to find a mentor is to show up for yourself. Mentors want to make sure their time is being honored. When I started doing whatever I could to maximize my learning and the application of that learning, I began to attract mentors. People always want to help people who help themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theloveeffectworldwide.org
- Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/officialnikkilashae
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikkilashae/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/nikkilashae
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/c/NikkiLaShae
Image Credits
Photographer 1: Reggie Payton of RPM Urban MUA: Kim Nicole Photographer 2: Twins Dnt Beg
