Today we’d like to introduce you to Raymond Watanga.
Hi Raymond, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I am a Kenyan-born American actor. Born and raised in Nairobi, Kenya. My family and I moved to America and settled in Euless, Texas when I was just 12 years old.
After years of focusing on basketball, I took a chance on acting after a significant ankle injury and ended up taking acting for non-majors class at Midwestern State University and thereafter changing my major.
I then graduated in 2018 with a BA in Theatre performance from the University of North Texas and then moved to Los Angeles a month later to further pursue my career. And I’ve been doing my best to let my work speak for itself.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not! It never is. The thing about this industry is that it can be completely quiet for 6 months, then all of a sudden you’re thrust into the spotlight so to speak off of maybe your only booking in the year. It’s pretty crazy. And that’s the part people don’t know or see.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I consider myself a thespian. I love to do the work and don’t shy away from it. At the moment, I’m known more for my African roles. I have an ear for accents and dialects and that’s helped me get a foot in the industry. But eventually, I want to be known for much more than that, because I’m capable of more.
I’m most proud of myself for sticking to my guns and forging my path along with my team and the support from my family. I believe what sets me apart is my unique upbringing, aptitude for languages, and knowledge of different cultures.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I don’t believe so much in luck. I believe more so that when you put the work in and speak well into the world, then eventually you’ll be repaid accordingly. And I call that opportunity meeting preparation.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: @Raymond Watanga
- Twitter: @RayWatanga
- Youtube: @Raymond Watanga
Image Credits
Zachariah Schmitt, Kamia Green, and Cooper Bates
