Today we’d like to introduce you to Sydney Lavette
Hi Sydney, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Yes, hi! My name is Sydney Lavette. I’m a writer, producer, researcher, and content creator from South Florida, now based in Los Angeles. My long-term goal is to amplify Black female storytelling in the entertainment industry while advocating for social progress through media and philanthropy.
My journey towards these goals started when I was a kid! I’ve always been drawn to storytelling in every form. Whether through writing short stories, music (I played violin for most of my life), acting, dancing, or creating short videos, I naturally gravitated towards anything that allowed me to express myself.
I didn’t officially choose a career path until middle school– which, in hindsight, was still pretty early. But at the time, it felt crucial to know! A mentor once asked me what I wanted to do, and when I said that I wasn’t sure, he advised me to reflect on what I loved most as a kid. He told me that my passions would reveal my purpose, and how I could make an impact. That conversation made me realize that I wanted to work in a creative field, using my talents to inspire and uplift others. That decision (along with a lot of hard work) led me to USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, where I’m currently studying with the goal of becoming an executive producer and showrunner. So far, I’ve worked on multiple short films, music videos, and feature-length projects–one of which was selected for the 2024 Tribeca Festival! When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me listening to music, working on my research, or creating content for my YouTube Channel.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I would say that my journey has been a mix of gratitude and challenges. I am incredibly thankful to have grown up with supportive parents who always encouraged my dreams, no matter how crazy they were– Foe example, I used to want to be a marine biologist, and so my mom bought me a book on marine life. My parents have always been my loudest cheerleaders.
I’m also fortunate to have had many mentors, professors, and friends who saw greatness in me before I fully saw it in myself. But it definitely hasn’t always been smooth sailing– getting to this point has required a lot of me, and I know that I have a long way to go. I’m just getting started on my dreams!
One of my biggest struggles, though, has been the battle between me in myself. I’ve had to overcome self-imposed barriers in many, many ways. For example, for a long time, I struggled with both confidence and boundaries. My lack of boundaries led me to overextend myself in situations I could’ve avoided–energy that could’ve been spent better elsewhere. At the same time, my lack of confidence held me back from recognizing my own value and stepping into spaces that could have empowered me.
These two struggles fed into each other– I would drain myself by giving myself too much, and then, lacking belief in myself, I wouldn’t have the persistence to push myself forward. Overcoming this has been an ongoing journey. But I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and I’m committed to continuing that progress for myself and others.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Yes! I specialize filmmaking, with a strong focus on storytelling through screenwriting and producing projects that truly resonate with me. Beyond film, I’ve also explored photography, graphic design, and content creation. Again, I really just love anything that allows me to express myself fully.
As an artist, I’ve come to realize that my vulnerability is my greatest strength. A few years ago, I heard an actress say that “Representation is specificity.” That quote completely influenced how I approach creativity. As someone deeply passionate about representation and impact, I adopted the idea that the more specific I am in my storytelling, the more universal it can become– People are more alike than we are different!
I believe that the experiences I’ve been through and the wisdom I’ve gained can help others, and I try to bring as much authenticity and detail to my work as possible. The smallest details can have a big emotional impact, and I think that perspective is what sets me apart: I’m meticulous about the specifics that shape a story, and am always thinking about how those nuances can move an audience and make meaningful change.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
There’s absolutely no way I could have achieved everything I have without the incredible people who have supported me along the way– The individuals I’m mentioning here are just a few of the many who have made a difference in my journey.
First and foremost, like I said before, my parents have always been my loudest cheerleaders. I chose to enter an industry that is unpredictable, constantly evolving, and outside of their fields of expertise– the total opposite of a “secure path.” Yet, their faith in me has never wavered. They’ve done everything in their power to set me up for success, while encouraging em to chase my dreams.
My extended family and aunties have also been some of my loudest supporters– While my parents are the cheerleaders, I’d say that they’re the marching band! They always support my content and film projects, and help me find new opportunities. I’m grateful to have them!
When I mentioned earlier that I’ve had mentors who saw greatness in me before I saw it in myself, I was primarily thinking of my high school teachers, Melissa Glosmanova, as well as my former boss, Tiffany Moe. Mrs. Glosmanova– or “Mrs. G, as we called her– was my high school art teacher. She always encouraged my creative vision, and gave me the tools to navigate the art and entertainment industry at an early age. I wouldn’t be where I am without her advice.
Mrs. Zietz became a source of refuge and unwavering support during difficult times, always speaking life into me when I needed it the most.
T.Moe, my first ever boss at my first ever job, showed me what it means to be a great leader. She made it look effortless, too– I later realized through my own journey that leadership is not effortless at all! She constantly put people first, while maintaining a fun yet productive work environment, which is an incredibly hard balance to strike, and something I aspire to. To this day, I find myself asking W.W.T.M.D (“What Would T.Moe Do?”) whenever I’m in a leadership role or facing a challenge. I can imagine that I’ll think this once I assume higher level positions!
My former dance teacher, Sean Green, instilled many invaluable life lessons in me. He taught me the power of discipline, the importance of staying humble yet hungry in pursuit of my goals, and how to navigate professional spaces with both confidence and authenticity. His guidance continues to shape the way I approach my work and personal growth.
Of course, these are just a few of the many incredible people who have shaped my journey. I could write an essay about the people who I’ve crossed paths with. I’m truly grateful for everyone that I know, I’ve gained a lot of wisdom from each of them.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydneylavette/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydney-lavette/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sydneylavette
Image Credits
Second Photo: Omarion Vivrette
Third Photo: Miles Collins
