Today we’d like to introduce you to Gem Nelson.
Hi Gem, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Born to Caribbean parents, in Miami FL. was an experience. I was raised in a Caribbean household with its culture. As a child, I was the timid girl who would go to the restroom and cry before going to classes, the little girl who would need her mom to be with her always because of fear (even in middle school/high school), the girl who was dealing with anxiety before I learned that attacks were a thing.
My mom had no idea I was having anxiety attacks as a child, we just knew I had a hard time breathing at random times. I was the girl who would wake up in the early morning hours to watch my mom out of the window as she prepared for work to make sure she left the driveway safely. Why? I lost my dad at a young age, two years old specifically, and until recently, I was unaware of the trauma that children go through when losing a loved one. It never clicked to me that losing my dad at two would affect my life so much. Although, I have no memory of him.
Throughout my life and into adulthood, I’ve been on a journey of figuring out “WHO AM I?” and what is my “PURPOSE”? However, as a result of the pandemic, I’ve had time to sit with myself and truly reflect on the meaning of life and what makes me happy. Learning who I am as a woman — a black woman in America. I reflected on my voice and the stereotypes that are often thrown at me. I took a dive into the deep to face every negative self-talk or seeds others planted in me. I realized words create life, and I am choosing mines. No longer will I believe the stories that have been written about me or people who look like me.
I was introduced to theatre in high school. Drama class was like halftime at an HBCU football game for me. It was my escape! Yes, I am an artist, a creator of imagination, who has taken what I’ve been through to help myself and I’m proud of it. Being an “actress” has allowed me to find my voice and know that I have something to say. This course has led me to a “Becoming Love” journey, to be gentle with myself and honestly look within and ground myself. I’ve never been so self-aware in my entire life since training as an actress in New York at HB Studio. Attending the conservatory probably saved my mental health in going into the pandemic along with my spiritual growth and foundation in Christ. As an artist, we sometimes forget about self. The whole self. At least for me, it’s a habit to just keep going and producing.
I accept who I am and give room for who I am becoming. Life for me wasn’t easy — I felt like a feather being tossed in the wind but realized as the wind settled and as I settle my mind knowing God has me right where I need to be. I am like the feather which lands gracefully in place. I don’t know what the future entails, however, I do know that at this moment, I am perfectly imperfect.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, it hasn’t been easy, however, it’s definitely worth it. Without the obstacles, I wouldn’t be who I am today. The refining process of fire produces some of the most beautiful artwork. I’ve learned when enough is enough for me. Most struggles have been within. A battle of the mind. Yes, I’ve had the financial struggles and been through homelessness, moving away at 18 to Los Angeles not know ANYTHING and etc. However, that wasn’t the obstacle, it was how I chose to go through what life brought my way and how I processed it.
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 am a storyteller. I’m currently writing two screenplays which I am super excited about. Additionally, I just finished collaborating with a colleague on a short film and we’re looking to submit to festivals. Recently, completed a Directing program with Eòlia, Escola Superior d’Art Dramàtic/ under HB Studio and will be exploring this avenue as well. I am creating a blog that will be launching soon (www.lovethebecoming.com). I am thrilled to share about caring for the whole artist/person through self- love and care, while blossoming as a human being. Thank you VoyageLA for having me and holding the space to share. It was a pleasure!
What makes you happy?
Being curious of the unknown and the unseen. Being with my family and friend. Eating my favorite food. Having a lot of quiet time with self. The simple things. Seeing new artwork and hearing about a story that changed someone’s life for the better. Seeing people of color succeed despite the obstacles and rise with our fist high saying “still I rise” not letting our voice be silenced- that’s pure strength and grit.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gemnelson.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamgem/
