Conversations with Zelika Chante

Today we’d like to introduce you to Zelika Chante.

Hi Zelika, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Movies, music, and television were a big part of my household. I always knew I would end up working in entertainment or some kind of creative field. I studied it all, singing, dancing, acting, modeling, even playing different instruments, but somehow acting was always the throughline. Other passions came and went, but acting was always there. I went to a performing arts school and then continued to study dramatic arts in and after college. Eventually, I started pondering if I should make the big move to California in pursuit of my dreams, but I could never decide. One day I was on the L train in NY reading a book, and a voice pops into my head saying, “Look up.” I ignore it because I’m trying to focus on what I’m reading. Finally, I give in and look up, and it’s an airline advertisement that says, “Destination Hollywood!” That was my answer right there. I quit my job, gave up my apartment, moved to Los Angeles, and never looked back.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. I’m in a new city without family, friends, and a job. It takes time to build up your network of supporters. What I struggle with the most is missing my family. It’s hard not to be there for weddings, birthdays, and new babies being born into the family. What gets me through is face timing, weekly phone calls and my parents sending me care packages from NY. There’s some food and other items that I still can’t find out here in LA.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am an actor. By being an actor has led me to being a director, producer, writer, editor, and even a website builder. I like to say I am an actor-preneur. As an actor, you are running your own business. I have been in plays, films, tv shows, and commercials but those jobs end and you have to keep yourself working, by producing your own projects. It’s a lot of work, but the fact that I am staying creative is the reward.

I’ve starred, written, and directed my own film Bend the Universe. I am also a content creator. I have a DIY (do-it-yourself) and video reaction channel on YouTube. Currently, I just started a podcast called LA Layover. It’s about the adventures of being an actor living in Los Angeles while still feeling like you’re a tourist.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Take your time. You will find your tribe and your core supporters. I would say don’t let the goal be “I have to network” your goal is to be your true self. While being your true self, networking will happen naturally.

When I first moved to LA, I wanted my “day job” to be in the arts industry. I was trying to get a job at this theater company. They weren’t hiring, but I ended up joining the company. One of the actors I met there became one of my closest friends, and that friend introduced me to my manager. Later on, I joined an acting school. I got my first agent because a scene partner in my acting class recommended me to them.

My goal wasn’t to get an agent or a manager or “to network.” My goal was to get a job so I can pay bills, my goal was to get into an acting class so I can hone my craft, and by doing those things I was networking naturally, which led me to acquire an agent and manager.

Contact Info:

• Website: zelikachante.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zelikachante/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zelikachante
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/zelikachante
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mszelika
• Other: https://www.youtube.com/@zelikachante