Today we’d like to introduce you to Ajia Munns.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ajia. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I was created with a twin but born alone. Coming into the world was a miracle, born in Cleveland, OH. At the age of about eight, I began my superstardom on the stage at Prospect Elementary School doing plays and holiday productions. After spending my first nine years in Cleveland, I moved to Dallas with my siblings, mom and new stepdad.
Growing up in Dallas, TX, I had the opportunity to explore deeper into the world of performing arts working as a model/actress. I knew what I wanted to do but didn’t always believe it was possible so I went to college. During my college years, I studied Psychology at the University of Houston and was very unhappy and that unhappiness made way for me to make the brave decision to move to Los Angeles, CA in August 2012. But I use psychology all the time with my acting roles. My LA journey has been a struggle battling homeless and breaking into the industry but there has always been a rainbow in my clouds. A major rainbow was been I studied at the Ruskin School of Acting in Santa Monica, CA and finished the two years Meisner program. That two years was life-changing! I’m a better actor and human being. Throughout my time in LA, I have had some amazing opportunities, being the lead in two pilots was the highlights of my career as well as playing Crystal Harlins in “Latasha Harlins: A Rose That Grew from Concrete.
However, I have also been a part of so many indie projects and over the years, I observed a lot! This led me to co-create my organization called Woven Colors which invites artist of all kind to network, share, and showcase their talents amongst each other. We do events all over the Los Angeles area. The next event is December 7th, 2019. I am very proud of Woven Colors, as well as stepping into producer and writer roles now. This year I produced my first series independently with four other amazing women, it was aw-inspiring and plan to do many more. I’m also very proud to be a co-founder of Black Women’s Day of Mediation! It’s an organization…a movement to incorporate meditation into the daily lives of Black/Indigenous women all over the world. Through mindful meditation we will improve the lives of many as well as introduce a NATIONAL HOLIDAY that will connect us in our pursuit of peace and optimal health in mind, body & spirit.
Has it been a smooth road?
I booked a national commercial all my friends and family saw within the first two months I was here. That gave me false expectations! Because it never happens like that again for me. I’ve had to create my opportunities, build them through relationships, and show up to auditions on time consistently. Oh but that’s not it, not having agents and people not taking you serious, changing agents. That’s not it either, it’s expensive pursuing an acting career in LA. We need headshot, we need to keep them current, we pay for breakdown services (which that’s a place where actors can submit themselves for acting role), etc.! There is so much to do and pay for and that’s not to mention the cost of LA, family and sacrifices. I have been homeless, jobless, but the greatest challenge has been not knowing anyone in the industry, no one in my family is a part of entertainment, and no one they know either. The only thing is I don’t give up so easily. I know what it’s like to live a life without passion and purpose so no matter the challenge in front of me I know there is a way! Luck helps too. My journey wasn’t easy, but it has been beautiful. I’m still walking my path but all I need to do is keep straight.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am an actress turned filmmaker, but acting is my love. Acting isn’t what I do, it’s who I am. As a matter of fact my favorite quote is by Eleonora Duse and she said “Work is worship.” What sets me apart in the space of acting is my magic. We all have it, I just found mine, within of me. My constant study of my craft through books, classes; acting, dance, & singing, observation of life & industry, and so much more helps also! I walk into a room and come with experience of life and a love for what I do and it shows. Not to mention, I give back to the community of art with my organization Woven Colors. Which our most popular event is our Film Screening event. I enjoy doing mediation events with Black Women’s Day of Meditation and My podcast Stories & Poems on Apple Podcast, Soundcloud, and Spotify. It’s a way for me to express my creativity and what’s on my heart. I am most proud of my inner-journey. I had no idea when I moved to LA, it would be a time for me to get in touch with the inter most parts of myself because I would need it in everything I do.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I have a love hate relationship with Los Angeles. In so many ways, it is the land of opportunity, the weather is great, and I LOVE my neighborhood. I live right near LACMA and Little Ethiopia. You can go to the desert, the beach, and the mountains all in a weekend if you wanted to. It’s beautiful and full of culture. But it is expensive and it’s the little things that add up like parking tickets!
Pricing:
- Ajia is currently raising funds for her short film titled Drunks about three unlikely alcoholics reluctantly on the road to sobriety. Here is the link gofundme.com/f/drunks-short-film
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ajiamunns.com/
- Phone: 3106282592
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @ajiamunns
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ajiamunns
Image Credit:
The photos include my podcast poster, myself leading a Woven Colors event, Headshot by Peter Konerko, stills of my acting, etc
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
