Meet Shanna J | Actress | Filmmaker | Writer

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

Hi Shanna, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
I truly believe as a mother, having a dream…especially in the entertainment industry is extremely difficult. Taking the time to film a project or show up on set may sometimes require 12 hour days or more from me. The time spent in rehearsals, studying my characters and lines, self tapes, etc. There’s times where I turn around and realize how much my daughter is growing right before my eyes , but i’m just not looking up. Because i’m so busy working towards the goals and dreams that I see for myself, that I always hope in turn will benefit her in so many ways in her future. It’s not always easy to be present as her mother but over time i’ve learned to dedicate an allotted amount of time doing the little things that she wants to enjoy. It could even be as simple as enjoying an ice cream cone together or drinking hot chocolate. My work/life balance isn’t the best because my concern is always I have to get to the money. I have to have a way to provide for her. But it is important to remember that in the midst of it all she still needs me and I try my best to be there for her as much as I can. Even through FaceTime calls while i’m away in other states or countries. I’m blessed to have a village that supports me with her while I work towards those goals.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an Actress, Filmmaker, & Screenwriter; it has been my pleasure to be able to create stories that resonate with people from all walks of life. Creating and completing the series “Blurred Ties” at the top of the year has been an extremely proud moment for me. Especially with the recognition that it’s been receiving in the festival market with numerous amount of nominations and wins. Getting to where I am today professionally has simply been through consistency and allowing my passions to drive me beyond what I could ever even imagine for myself. It hasn’t been an easy journey and still isn’t but, the challenges I have faced continue to influence my art in so many ways. Being able to overcome the challenges has been nothing but the grace of God and just wholeheartedly believing in myself. Not getting discouraged when i’m faced with rejection. Not giving up when it gets to hard. Taking the time to look in the mirror and reminding myself of who I am and what I am capable of. Along the way I have learned that if I don’t one hundred percent believe in what i’m doing, then who else will? I have learned to be open to criticism and make the investments where necessary to better myself and my craft. I have learned that no one is just going to give me a handout and save me, I have to put in the work. I want the world to know that as long as they have air in their lungs , that dream they desire is still possible. My story at its core is bittersweet but i’ve never let it stop me from going after what I want, it’s only helped drive me to be better.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If someone was visiting I would recommend a few spots around South Florida. Starting with Nikki Beach, it’s like your own little island getaway without the hassle of dealing with the huge crowds at the regular beaches. Wynwood to appreciate the grafitti art and dope restaurants/shops. If your in Hollywood it only makes sense to check out the Hard Rock Hotel because who doesn’t want to see a hotel shaped like a guitar light up! For more chill vibes I would suggest a stroll down Las Olas or a ride down A1A to take in the beach while also getting a peak of all of the interesting and exciting people South Florida has to offer. If you’re looking for a treat, Localicious in Lauderhill, Fl as well as Sloans by Commercial Blvd. are absolutely delicious. Set aside a day to window shop at Sawgrass Mills Mall. There are so many hidden gems all over.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would definitely love to highlight my mother, Revlon. Who has had so much patience with my career choices over the years. It’s not easy being a creative and remaining financially afloat in the beginning stages.
But she has been so supportive of my journey for as long as I can remember and it’s rare to have parents, especially island parents who are willing to see the vision too.
My grandmother Enid, who passed away earlier this year. She instilled so much strength in me and was a huge believer that I could be anything I set my mind to. I hold her and all the amazing
conversations we have had close to my heart. When you have a family that believes in you it helps make the journey that much more rewarding.
I last would love to shout out all of my close friends and family. They know who they are. Who have all helped to better my craft or encourage me in some way. It is because of them why I still
go full force behind my goals and dreams today.

Website: https://www.shannajohnson.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannaj_