Meet Gley Viera | Actress

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gley Viera and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gley, what principle do you value most?
Truth in my intention, and recognizing the God in all that I stumble on, as well as being the observant awareness of how I do EVERYTHING, and most importantly… why? The why of my vocation specially. Because when we are not intentional with our thoughts and actions, we tend to give our power away, even more so in my line of work. Practicing this has put me in the driver’s seat of my path.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I work as an actress in film and television. I see myself as an explorer of stories, making what is unreal, real.

I have always believed I am not better than anyone and no one is better than me; this keeps me grounded and in my heart vs my ego. We each stand out through the energy we bring into a space, & I aim for mine to be an infusion of with ease and inspiration.

My acting journey began at five years old on a Cuban film set, where I used my skills as a young ballerina to portray my real life aunt, Claudia Rojas, in “La Vida es Silvar.” The experience was eye-opening, even as a child, I felt to intimidated that it stifled my desire for self-expression in front of a camera until nearly 15 years later when storytelling called to me again.

Since 2015, I’ve felt a strong urge to dive into the creation process of film and television. I left the security of Corporate America to pursue acting, and my mom, single with 3, supported me through every free student project and low paying job that helped me get my foot in the door.

It was not easy, both emotionally and spiritually, but with resilience and a willingness to take risks, my hard work began to pay off the very next year. I found myself in national commercial campaigns, leading roles in feature films overseas, and various print campaigns that helped me grow in the industry.

One important lesson I’ve learned about following a creative passion is that the journey is unique for everyone. But as long as you keep searching for your propose IN it, you will find success, and each milestone will lead to new opportunities.

My story reflects the classic themes of immigration, humanity, acceptance of all that is, which includes acceptance of what my passions are, who I am, what my chosen industry has to offer, and transforming that into art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First and foremost, sunrise! I mean when in the East right?

My favorite moments are at the very start of the day when the sun and nature put on a show for us, creating a real-life movie. After that, it’s time to eat. You can choose from various cuisines, after all we are in the biggest melting pot city, wherever we end up, it MUST have a colada/espresso option. I love letting my people guide the day —I enjoy it all!

Then we thrift! If you’re my friend, you know I have a knack for finding hidden gems in secondhand stores (so much so that my mom and I have our own shop, “Clothing Colors”).

After the exciting and overwhelming world of thrifting, we ground ourselves by connecting with nature, I have many go-to parks near me that are always a good idea—hug trees, read oracle cards and twirl in the grass, which will likely lead us to a beautiful sunset.

Last but not least, music. We’ll be sure to find some live music or at least a place to dance for a while, and release.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Biggest shoutout to Michael Jacques, for being a solid figure and example of self reliance, truthfulness, authenticity and professionalism, & who continues to inspire many to drop the BS and get to work. As well the entire Talent Direct Agency family, its been quite a journey of growth, and I trust there is more on the way.

Website: https://gleyviera.com

Instagram: @gleyviera

Youtube: Gley Viera

Image Credits
1. “La Vida Es Silvar” by Fernando Perez
2. Miss Cuba Queen of the Continents 2015
3. First Feature Film, “Still Waters Run Deep”, Bogotà, Colombia
3. Student Film “Exodos”
4. AT&T Billboard
5. Mom and I, Cocacola Billboard
6. Miss Spa campaign
7. “Pit bulls & Piranhas” by Tabatha Mudra