Today we’d like to introduce you to Neko Parham.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My spark for training young actors began when I myself was a student in training in NYC. I was presented the opportunity to work for an inner-city after-school arts program in Harlem. It was during this endeavor that my love for working with kids grew into a true passion and personal aspiration. After leaving NY for Los Angeles, I found yet another acting troupe to grow with, which soon after allotted me the chance to create a private workspace for young artists. From that I begin to venture out as an independent screenwriter, creating projects in which I’d write for students that trained under me.
One of those projects sent me to Atlanta to set up production. While there, I met the most fabulous girl in the world. Less than a year later I had relocated to Atlanta (which happens to be my hometown). Three years later we were engaged. And this April will be 4 years of bliss. My wife obviously knew of my love for training youth, so being the wonderful encourager that she is, she urged me on to start my own acting school. What started as 6, young and eager actors has now evolved into a full steam creative machine known as TEAMGREATNESS ATL. We self-describe ourselves as a ‘faith-based/sports infused’ style of acting training.
This innovative style of training quickly proved itself to be quite successful, as many of our students launched into mainstream TV and FILM at a rapid pace. We Inspire the hearts of Champions! We encourage one another! We work to WIN! Our motto is “Play Heart or Go Home!” And we do it ALL to Glorify GOD!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Though we’ve found great success at TeamGreatness ATL, the journey has been anything but smooth. One of the greatest challenges I was faced with was how to maintain a consistent structure with classes. Being a professional actor and writer certainly created some schedule challenges.
There were times when I would literally get off a plane and make it to the studio just in time to start class. Because of the specific and focused style of training, it has been difficult finding and trusting someone to train under me. But it has most definitely been the Grace of God seeing us through thus far.
TeamGreatness ATL – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
TeamGreatness ATL is a professional acting studio, specializing in youth. It was founded by husband and wife, actor duo, Neko & Onira Parham. We are best known for what we call “our atmosphere of love”. Though we are so excited to have so many of our young actors working professionally in film and TV, our constant goal is that we support one another in a loving and caring manner.
This is what we’re most proud of. The one thing that sets us apart from other acting schools is that we are a faith-based, sports-infused style of acting training. We not only rely on our creativity but also our faith from within as well as various sports methods.
One of the first things you will notice when you walk into our studio is an 80lb boxing bag glaring at you. Yes, we use it for acting training!
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is when you meet with your purpose & passion face-to-face every day and say to it… I Love you. I Like you! I Live for you! And for those reasons… I thank God for you! At TeamGreatness, our one true criteria that never changes is that you always remain true to yourself. Likened to the effervescent words of William Shakespeare…” Above all, to thine own self, be true.”
Pricing:
- Youth classes are held bi-weekly Saturdays. Tuition is $150/Month
- Adult classes are bi-weekly Wednesdays. Tuition is $60/Class
- We also provide coaching and self-taping for auditions. Cost is $75 for Coaching & Taping. $50 for Taping.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.teamgreatnessatl.com
- Email: teamgreatness@yabilane.com
- Instagram: teamgreatness_atl
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
