Today we’d like to introduce you to Tarina West.
Hi Tarina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a working actress and model based here in Atlanta! I’m born and raised in Gwinnett county. My mom fought really hard to live and survive here in the states so when I grew up, she always encouraged me to follow my dreams and I think she definitely saw some star power in me. I did high school theater and decided to continue pursuing it going into college. The only school I had my eyes set on since the 7th grade was Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). So applied and much to my surprise, I got accepted. I uprooted my life to Savannah and began studying Performing Arts. There, I met some lifelong friends and made unbreakable connections. I earned my earliest background work there, being on the sets for May December and Clean Slate as well as student projects and being featured in student photography shoots. I’ve learned almost everything I needed to know there but I missed home and was growing exhausted from the Savannah heat. So I came back home for Senior year to really focus and begin developing my craft to be able to create wonderful works and gain new experiences. I’ve met new friends and remain close with my old ones who have all supported me through my high’s and low’s. I have had a shoulder to lean on even in the face of constant adversity for nearly 10 years and my support system continues to grow. Now I am working full time on my career and am taking the steps to get my foot in the right doors and my talent has never been more evident.
Alright, 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?
Oh absolutely not lol. Watching the city develop in real time was beautiful but also environmentally and financially damaging. Every place we moved into growing up, we were priced out of. And you can only keep up with the economy with the right job but believe it or not, this country still dislikes immigrants. My mom continues to sacrifice daily to put food on our table. And by no means are we still “okay” but we’re here and surviving. We have found community in the people who we’ve supported in the past.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m an actress and model. I do film and tv work and currently I’m most known for the cute bows I wear in my hair. I’m most proud of my talent when it comes to working on camera. I find myself a little impressed when I view the work I’ve done after completion and it only motivates me to continue and get better. I think what sets me apart is my confidence to just be myself around others. I learned to stop caring how people view me and my character once I realized it came down to my overexcitement or happiness. Remaining positive despite everything truly has turned my mindset around.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Watching power rangers or the live action scooby doo movie while eating heated cereal (yes I like it a little soggy) or warm donuts.
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