Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Angela Ray of North Fulton

We recently had the chance to connect with Angela Ray and have shared our conversation below.

Angela, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Nature. The weather has so many extremes, especially in the south but I enjoy those days when I can take in a moment by the river, a walk in the park or just sitting in my office and taking in the sunshine.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I work at the intersection of creativity and impact. I work as an actress performing in film, television, and theatre. I also perform spoken word poetry, which has been rewarding. I am the author of three books, where I explore themes of identity, resilience, and the beauty of human experience.

Beyond the creative side, I’m a host and speaker, which allows me to connect directly with audiences in a more personal way. Whether I’m performing on screen, on stage, or speaking from the heart, my mission is always the same; to inspire, to spark emotion, and to remind people of their own power to create and express.

Right now, I’m continuing to grow my work as both an artist and storyteller. I am also developing new projects that merge poetry, performance, and purpose. I believe storytelling has the power to heal and connect us, and that’s the thread that runs through everything I do.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Definitely my mom. I started speaking at a young age and I was competing in oratorical contests in elementary school. My sixth-grade year, I won a competition at my school and that advanced me to the district competition.

At the district contest, I remember there was a student from another school who I thought was simply amazing. I was nervous during the break, but my mom talked to me and truly poured positive words into me. Not only did I go on to advance beyond that student, but I also went on the state competition.

My mom often pushed me to present material beyond what I could imagine accomplishing at a young age. That ultimately laid the foundation for what would become a successful speaking career.

(That student in the contest was a good speaker though. Today, she’s an attorney and is still speaking as well.)

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, more than once. And almost every time, I score a major victory just after making the decision to keep pressing forward.

During the pandemic, I had to make some major pivots. Initially, all sets were closed down. I could not do any speaking or hosting either initially. Most of my career paths required me to be around other people so I was at home.

When the entertainment industry figured out how to shoot safely, auditions resumed, and filming started again. I was auditioning a lot, but I wasn’t booking. After a while, I thought I should focus my energy on a regular job as opposed to all the auditions I was taking the time to do. I had a conversation with a longtime friend, sharing my plans to tap out of entertainment for a while. He advised me not to even though I said it wasn’t forever. I took his advice. Less than a week later, I booked a TV role.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Like the movie Soul Food, in my family, gatherings are meaningful for us. So, we put effort into maintaining those traditions. While we don’t necessarily have Sunday dinner each week, we do gather often to break bread for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions. And sometimes, that special occasion is a visit from an out of town relative.

Historically in the African American community, mealtime was the part of the day when all the members of the family could gather together. For me, that tradition is still very important along with the actual food we serve.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel the most peace when I am in nature. I absolutely love the beach and anytime I can get to the ocean is time well spent. But even when I can’t see the waves, I take the time to walk near a river, lake or waterfall. I drink in as much sunshine as possible.

Having a blanket brunch in the park is my jam. Smelling honey suckles during the spring warms my heart. Eating by the firepit during the winter feels like home. Nature is peace to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.speakandreach.com
• Instagram: TheAngelaRay
• Facebook: TheAngelaRay