Life & Work with Monique Dudley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Monique Dudley.

Hi Monique, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
How I started was actually a little funny. I was getting a Master’s degree in Physical Science in North Carolina. I realized fairly early into the program that I hated it. I’ve always wanted to pursue acting and voice over work but I didn’t really know how to get started. I’m from a small town in North Carolina and not very many people pursue a career in the arts. But I applied to New York Film Academy just on a whim. I honestly didn’t think I would get in. But I did shockingly and I dropped everything and came to California to pursue my dreams.

It was a bit rough when I first got here. I was homeless when I got here. I had really thought about giving up and going home but I found a place to live and everything fell into place after that. I got my Master of Fine Arts degree in January and I started my production company, MLD Productions. I have written a couple of scripts and will be putting on a play production of one of my stories in December.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I am a US Army veteran but I don’t want to be known as just that. As I said before, I was homeless and it took me a bit to find my path. I also have PTSD from time to time. I talk to a therapist and with this business, it’s only natural to question yourself. But all in all, it’s worth it because I’m doing what I love, my way.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am an actress but I like to think of myself as an artist. I write scripts and I do voice over work as well. I am most proud of finishing my Master’s degree. But I’m most proud that I chose to pursue what I wanted and I’m working in the field I love. I promised myself that I would make it my way and right now, I’m on my way.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
I’ve learned to trust myself. I always question whether I am doing the right thing or should I go a different way. Really, I know which way I want to go, it’s just about trusting myself to follow my instincts.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: moniquedudley.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lionessnique/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/monique.dudley.9