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Life & Work with Kelly Washington of Johns Creek

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Washington.

Kelly, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Hi! I’m Kelly Washington. I am an actor based in Atlanta and Los Angeles. Since I was a child, I’ve always loved acting; I really can’t imagine doing anything else. My passion for acting began to grow when I was young while performing in theater at Christian Youth Theater (CYT) and Atlanta Workshop Players (AWP) in Atlanta. Growing up, I wanted to be a part of any theater group I could! But an opportunity to be in my first film, The Fat Boy Chronicles, which filmed here in Atlanta, got me absolutely hooked on performing for TV and film. Since then, I have followed the work between here and Los Angeles. Through my career as an actor, my experiences and opportunities have led me to pursue some other avenues that I’m passionate about. Having three full time jobs does require little sleep, but it is 100% worth it. After starring in the film Trafficked alongside Ashley Judd, my world was somewhat turned upside down. Like most people, I was unaware of the horrific reality that is human trafficking.

Diving into the character I was playing, doing thousands of hours or research, and speaking with victims left me feeling an overwhelming need to do something. This led me to start “Unchained Threads,” a clothing company that raises awareness and gives money to different nonprofits fighting human trafficking. It has taken me much longer than I would have liked to get it off the ground, but every step is worth it if I can make a difference. My third venture was starting a podcast! For those of you getting to know me through this article, I’m obsessed with Disney. And Goldfish crackers. And Dinosaurs. But I LOVE Disney. I always have. When I am in Los Angeles, I try to go once a week because it feels like home. For years, one of my best friends has told me that I should be using my excessive knowledge of Disney for a podcast. While I loved the idea, I was always nervous. Fear of failure, it gets us all at times. Then 2020 came, and the pandemic took over. Shaking up our lives and really highlighting what’s important to us. It may sound silly, but I really missed Disneyland and the magic and feeling of hope it gave me. So I decided to join forces with my friend, a casual Disney go-er, to bring the joy and love of Disney to Disney lovers and casual goers alike through “Slice of Disney.” We bring two very different Disney experiences, but both finding a fondness of the parks allows for a very unique voice that isn’t always offered to Disney fans. I give a guided history and story of rides creations and attractions, while my co-host brings me back to reality. We found that for some Disney lovers, the culture can be a little overwhelming, so we want to bring you in and bring the magic without drowning you in it! That seems like a whirlwind of all different adventures, but that’s me, and that’s where I’m at today!

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Oh my! There is nothing smooth about this road. I think it would be hard to find an actor who feels their journey was smooth sailing. It’s a career full of rejection and redemption, combined with opportunities and challenges; but all the work is so worth it. My job is to be the most vulnerable and authentic human I can be and put everything on the table. I think that’s a feeling many entrepreneurs and creatives can relate to. It’s certainly not easy, but it’s all worth it because there is no feeling better than creating something amazing. And I am so thankful I get to do that every day.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an actor, writer, and freedom fighter. I’ve been blessed to work in both comedy and drama. And honestly, nothing makes me happier than doing it all. I am probably most recognized for my role as “mini Leslie Knope” on Parks and Recreation, but had been very fortunate to work on some amazing sets. I don’t know if I have an exact answer for “work I’m most proud of”. I’m proud to be a part of big projects like Parks and Recreation, Jurassic World, and Bunk’d that can bring a smile and brighten your day, and also smaller projects like The Fat Boy Chronicles and Trafficked that shed a light on very real problems like bullying, obesity and human trafficking. I’m proud of the work, because I believe it’s all part of the process. I’m proud of the effort that’s been put into everything, and I’m so proud to be a part of projects that can make a difference. So, if I were to break it down, I’m proud to be a part of projects that can help shed light on a topic or even just bring a smile to someone’s face. I’m proud of Unchained Threads, because I’m able to bring light to human trafficking and spread awareness. I am proud of Slice of Disney and my work on shows like Parks and Recreation and BUNK’D because it brings a smile to someone’s face. I want to make an impact and be a source of positivity at the end of the day. So anything I’ve done to do those things, makes me proud.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Find someone you can trust. I think trust and authenticity is the most important thing in any relationship, professional and personal. Especially as someone in the entertainment industry. You need someone who is always going to push you to grow and be your best, even when it’s difficult. I had an acting coach growing up who completely changed my life. Finding that person who can challenge you and bring the best out of you is so special. I am so thankful for the mentors who have pushed me, continue to open me up, and give me advice for how to survive a very difficult industry. I don’t think anyone can do this alone, so asking for help is so crucial. It’s about growing and supporting each other. Of course, (post covid), go to networking events, put yourself out there. But I really don’t think there’s any right answer on where you’re going to find people to work with. You could be at a coffee shop, shooting a film, or maybe it’s a family friend! Always be open to finding that person.

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Image Credits
Corrine Louie Photography Mike Glatzer Photography John Washington Graphic Design

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