Meet Shadia Shunnara

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shadia Shunnara.

So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
As a kid, I spent a lot of time writing stories and creating books. I’d put on shows for my stuffed animals and unamused family members. What I didn’t know then was the “why”. Why did I want to create and explore different worlds? I wanted so badly to play with the unknown. I still do.

I followed the routine of life. I went to university, earned my degree in Communication Studies, landed a great job at a law firm in Atlanta. But I wasn’t satisfied. Growing up a first generation American, my family taught me the importance of stability. But I was done suppressing my “why” to satisfy other’s versions of what my life should be. When I quit my stable job to pursue acting and writing full time, they had a lot to say. But I knew that I had to take the chance.

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?
Absolutely not! I’m a perfectionist. There are times when I get incredibly frustrated and overwhelmed. It’s been a struggle to let go of my need for control and to let things happen as they happen.

What else should we know?
I am an actress and writer but, I daylight as a nanny. I spend my days enriching the young minds of Atlanta. While they nap, I’m writing scripts or rehearsing for an audition. Having a positive impact in the lives of children is something that’s always been a part of me. Seeing the world through their eyes is inspiring. For them, everything is new and has potential. They help me stay grounded.

On the creative side, I get to explore the unknown. The best part of my day is opening a blank page and letting my imagination soar.

When I get an audition, the first thing I do is research everything. I set up a session with my coach, Sara Mornell. Then, I play.

I am most proud of the fact that I have a job that I enjoy, let alone one that allows me the flexibility to pursue my creative passions.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
On my birthday, a few years back, I went skydiving. I went 14,000 feet into the air and jumped. The second my feet flew out of the doorway, my fight or flight response took over. I held my breath and closed my eyes. In that moment, when fear was my captor, I said to myself, “breathe, open your eyes”. So, I did. I chose to enjoy it. I was as close to flying as I’ll ever get. I would’ve missed it if I let myself be ruled by fear.

I never experienced such intense vulnerability as I did when I jumped. Hurdling 120 miles per hour toward the earth, heart pounding with exhilaration, I learned something: to be vulnerable is to be free.

Moral of the story: Feel the fear and do it anyway. That is what’s going to get you to the next level.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/shadiashunnara/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/shadiashunnara/
• Other: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm8617560/?ref_=pro_nm_visitcons

Image Credit:
Tara Gulledge
Daniel Patton

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