Today we’d like to introduce you to Ahmed Al-kadri.
Ahmed, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
When I graduated from college in 2014, I immediately got a job as an accountant. I have to admit I was unsatisfied, but my life forever changed when I started my first improv class at Dallas Comedy House. My greatest appreciation for the art of improv is making choices in a scene that are supported no matter what. When I’m around improvisors, I feel more committed to the choices I make on stage, especially with my favorite troupe, Sunglow.
We started together two years ago and headlined every weekend at Dallas Comedy House and performed in festivals around the nation. I wasn’t just known for improv at the Dallas Comedy House, I did a lot of stand up, sketch, and even hip hop class one summer.
I made some huge decisions in August of 2018 and decided to move to LA. I quit my job as an accountant, which I was amazing at (sort of), and moved to LA to pursue a career in comedy, acting, and writing. Since I moved, I’ve been doing my best to network and further my career however I can. I’ve been performing stand up all around LA and training at Groundlings and Upright Citizens Brigade. Be sure to check out my open mic at Acme Comedy NoHo every Wednesday and Sunday at 5pm with my awesome co-host Eric Lewis-Baker.
Ultimately, I want to be a role model for young Muslims and Arab-Americans. When I read success stories of my idols, it pushes me towards exceeding expectations and turning my dreams into a reality. Granted they’re much more talented and slightly better looking than me but hey, I believe in myself and my mother says I’m handsome all the time!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I am a very optimistic person so I try to look at the silver-linings with everything. However, It has been a struggle mentally for me moving to a whole different city, considering the fact I have lived in Dallas my whole life. I really miss my family, friends, and the DCH community but they all have my back and wish me the best (I hope so lol).
My car got broken into. TWICE! The first time was not a big deal because he (yes I am assuming its a man) just stole a pack a gum and a small $11 tripod. The second time was worse. My car was parked in a neighborhood in East Hollywood/Silverlake area, the guy (again, assuming its a man) smashed my window and stole my backpack and puma sweatpants. I was really bummed out because along with my joke book and planner there was a small pocketbook that was gift from my old boss back in Dallas and in the first few pages of that pocketbook were words of encouragement from her and other coworkers wishing me luck on my journey and all of that sentimental value is just gone now. I will admit, this turned into great comedy material.
So to answer your question, it has not been a smooth road at all, but life is not easy so just smile and try your best. #MondayMotivation
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I do get a lot of questions about my “brand” as a comedian. I do have a website/blog that I try to post every week but my majority of my activity is on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter (follow me @ahmedalkadriii). I started #FastFoodFriday over a year ago where I go to different restaurants and write a review about the food, and I do #MondayMotivation where I give solid advice to young entrepreneurs.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Don’t do comedy and instead do another hobby like knitting or axe-throwing.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ahmedalkadriii/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ahmedalkadriii/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AhmedAlkadriii
Image Credit:
Michelle Marshall
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