Today we’d like to introduce you to I’sis Eikner.
I’sis, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My sparkle was birthed in the Golden Isles, also known as Brunswick, Georgia. I have been dancing since I was four years old. It became second nature for me and It will forever be my therapy. My love for theatre developed in middle school and I found a love for acting. The concept of imagination and characterization was and still is fun to explore. During college, I toured film sets and was inspired to pursue film and theatre. After being featured on VH1’s ‘T.I. and Tiny’s Family Hustle,’ I knew the entertainment industry was worth the pursuit. I decided to work as a background artist to gain experience and learn with a ‘hands-on’ approach. While working multiple jobs, I continued to keep acting and dance as my central focus. Four years later, I am now teaching theatre to kids at Synchronicity Theatre, operating as an Assistant Producer, film and theatre acting, dancing, and most importantly writing my own TV series! Stay tuned.
Great, 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?
This journey has not been a smooth one! I tried to talk myself self out of my dreams so many times because dreaming big can be intimidating to others and to yourself. I also chose not to work a consistent 9-5 job because I needed flexibility for auditions and opportunities that are spur of the moment. Working multiple jobs and staying motivated has been tough but I’ve managed to stay focused on the big picture. To the young women who are just starting on their journey, please know that you are powerful and peculiar. I would also say keep an open mind but stay true to who you are. Stay beautiful and stay balanced!
Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
As dance is my first love, I am exercising that gift at Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral where I am a co-leader of L.I.T. Force Dance Ministry. In addition, I am currently Teaching at Synchronicity Theatre’s Playmaking for kids throughout the school year. Film is also a passion, so I am heavily involved with XOD network and Gaylord Parsons Celebrity Acting Studio where I am an Assistant Producer, Production Assistant, and most importantly, a student.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that a lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
My advice for networking would be to talk to everyone. I believe life is one huge chain in which we are all linked for a purpose. In knowing this when I’m at an event, I try to speak to everyone; from the catering staff to the host. Volunteering for small projects and interpersonal communication at events has helped me connect with a lot of people. When finding a mentor, I would recommend choosing someone whose values are congruent with yours.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: isiseikner
- Facebook: I’sis Eikner
Image Credit:
madeamazingmua – Nzinga Imani, Jason Fields photography
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