Meet Daisha Graf

Today we’d like to introduce you to Daisha Graf.

Daisha, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am an artist. I am a creative and a creator. I strive to use my art to effect change. I started as a backup dancer to the world’s most famous Pop and R&B artists. Rihanna, Beyonce, Santigold, Ariana Grande, and Jill Scott to name a few. I also ventured into the music business as a recording artist under MBK/Epic Records for some time. Still not able to quench my artistic thirst, I ventured into my latest expression: acting. Thank you to ICM Partners, BGB Studios, and Identity School of Acting in LA for supporting and stretching me as an actor. I just wrapped a movie called “Covers” starring Tracee Ellis Ross and Dakota Johnson, Directed by Nisha Ganatra. When people ask which arts medium I like best, I always say they work hand in hand. I do not feel I have to choose one. I’ve never been one to accept the labels someone has put on me. Some people are born knowing exactly what they want to do, and they go ahead and pursue that one thing. I’ve never been that kind of person, and I have grown to understand that there is nothing wrong with pursuing several passions. If that wasn’t enough, I teach dance and fitness in Los Angeles as well as Nationally. I love empowering people in that way. What I do for fun is pretty much what I do for work. Who knows what ill be doing 1, 2, even five years from now… or even tomorrow ha…but for now, I will continue to learn, grow, and create in my craft.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It all depends on perspective. If I look at things one way: 1) I was never the class favorite in dance growing up, I had to really train and hone my talent. It was super hard and competitive 2) I auditioned for a couple of years before I landed my first dance job 3.) I was dropped from my music label for reasons I’ll never know, and because of being in a less than par situation with my team, I up and left everything and everyone to start over. 4) I moved to LA with no money, raw, disappointed, and depressed. 5) Pursing acting is everything but simple. I get rejected daily after pouring my heart out. It is tough to stay positive.

BUT THIS IS THE WAY I CHOOSE TO LOOK AT IT:

1) I do not feel I was born with natural ability as a dancer, but it forced me to work hard, be disciplined, be faithful, and grow confident in myself. I had drive and spirit which made me interesting to watch 2) I auditioned for years before I landed my first job, and during that time, I was forced to keep training and honing my craft. Looking back I wasn’t ready…and then I was. 3) The music industry is unforgiving, but I grew so much personally and spiritually during that time. I learned what I will and will not tolerate moving forward. I found my power and continue to do so. 5) Acting has been the most challenging and vulnerable things I’ve pursued thus far. It has forced me to look really deep inside so that I can connect with millions of stories that deserve to be told. I get to express myself fully and feel deeply which is such an honor. I feel like my most authentic self.

Life is all about perspective. I could have quit a million times by now, but that little voice inside keeps telling me to push forward. The struggles, the hard times, the disappointments and tears… its all a part of my unique journey, and my growth. For whatever reason, I do believe I was supposed to go through everything I went through, so for everyone involved (good or “bad”), I’m grateful. When I get my wins and my joys (which have been many!), it feels THAT much sweeter.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
I believe success is feeling at peace with how you live your life. Maya Angelou said, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.” I like that idea. I want to lead a life of purpose knowing I’ve done all I can to make even one person’s life a little better. I feel I’m doing that. Although money helps to live a more comfortable life, I do not associate it with my true definition of personal success. Money helps to finance the works and ventures I pursue. Money is energy. Success for me is feeling at peace with who I am knowing God has a unique plan for my life.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.iamthedaisha.com
• Email: iamthedaisha@gmail.com
• Instagram: @iamthedaisha

Image Credit:
Jacob Garcia, Azusa Takano, MountainBikeKeith, Scott Irving, Tayo Ola

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