Life and Work with Dawn Halfkenny

Thanks for sharing your story with us Dawn. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started in this industry roughly ten years ago. I was home watching the news when they announced an open casting call for a popular soap opera show. I had no acting experience whatsoever but knew I wanted a change in direction for my career. I wrote down all the information needed, studied the lines provided and a couple of days later, proceeded to audition. At this time, I had a corporate job and had no idea how I was going to work it (the audition) in my schedule, but I made it happen. Luckily for me, I received a callback and continued to make the next round of cuts. Fast forward a few months later, while submitting myself for a few background roles, I received an email asking if I was available for a stand-in position, which gave me the opportunity to learn some “do’s and dont’s” of being on a professional set. I proudly accepted. From background to leading roles and producing. God is definitely an awesome God!

Has it been a smooth road?
By far, the toughest situation that has happened in my life is losing my mother to breast cancer. Nothing compares to that feeling. She was placed in hospice after I booked my first recurring role. My mother and I briefly spoke about it, she was such a strong-supportive parent, she insisted that I continue to pursue my dreams. Being raised the only child, I was at my weakest but seeing her determination to fight off the disease, I pressed forward. Having faith in God and a consistent prayer life is what kept me strong.
The advice I would give to other women is to know Him. He has gotten me through many trails and tribulations. Life gets hard but remember, He gives the hardest battles to the strongest soldiers.

We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
Currently, I am on Saints and Sinners. I play Angela Parks (Saint Angela) on Bounce tv. Other shows that I’ve booked include: TALES, The Haves and the Have Nots, and ATLANTA, to name a few. Being a working Actor is a true blessing! I believe that my confidence, positive attitude and great energy is what sets me apart from others. Plus, I’m always thinking of unique ways to brand myself. It’s nice to have a team who believes in my vision and genuinely wants to see me to excel in life. I’m also thankful to the casting directors, productions and every individual who has had a hand in the success of my career thus far. I am always sure to express my gratitude.

Do you think there are structural or other barriers impeding the emergence of more female leaders?
Women are empowering queens! The women in this industry, (too many to name) I simply admire. We often see the reward but never the hard work. I’ve witnessed the battles, struggles and hardships and they have conquered without complaining or quitting. There is always a resistance to change in any industry, and whether these roadblocks are deliberate or a matter of tradition, the fact is, this generation of female leaders have reached a point where nothing will hold them back. Slammed doors are turned into opportunities by holding on to faith; accomplishments are created by not accepting “no.”  They inspire me, and I strive to be one of them.