Rising Stars: Meet Leon Taylor of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leon Taylor.

Hi Leon , we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Originally from the Inland Empire, I moved to LA in 2017 to pursue my dreams of working in the entertainment industry. I had no idea how I was going to make that happen, I just knew I needed to be in LA to get the momentum going. Working odd jobs, and doing muggle work as I like to call it, I landed my first PA gig in 2022 two months after being fired from my retail job. I had no idea that this was going to be more that a one time thing. After that, the work just kept pouring in. With hard work, consistency and determination even in the midst of film industry, I remained steadfast and hungry with passion and desire. Now, I am gainfully and consistently employed with an online news publication that does PR work and produces two amazing award shows annually one called The Daytime Beauty Awards which honors the science behind beauty and cannabis. We just had our 7th DBAs and the other called The Hollywood Beauty Awards which honors the architects of beauty. So your hairstylists, makeup artists, stylists and photographers.

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 has definitely had its challenges. As I mentioned earlier, I JUST got in to this industry in 2022 right before the strike. Mind you, I was booked and busy. I even had to turn down a gig because the work was LITERALLY coming in non-stop. So imagine your dreams coming true and then being brought to a hard stop due to something completely out of your control. I had to go back to “muggle” work doing security and even going back to retail. But I was smart about it. I tailored it to work in my favor. Both were part time so that if a PA gig did come along, I was able to accept. Also, any time I did a security job, I made sure it was event security, so award shows, conventions, concerts, expos etc. Gotta stay in the loop so you can network and make those connections.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I currently work in entertainment production. It was always a dream to work in entertainment and create art. I’m known for my work ethic. I’m always told how great my work ethic is and how it’s rare to find these days. I have my mother to thank for that. I show up early, willing to do what needs to be done to make things happen. I think that’s what sets me apart from others. I’m just happy to be on the project creating something for people to enjoy. I have to say my proudest moment is pitching to Meagan Good and Jonathan Majors for their lifestyle brand Honor Culture to be honored at our 7th Daytime Beauty Awards this year and they were able to accept. Only being in this industry less than five years, that truly meant the world to me! My specialty, I’d have to say is being resourceful.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
When I first started I was told about The Production Assistant’s Pocket Handbook. That really help me set the foundation for my career. I ended up passing it on to someone else who I thought it could help. I highly recommend it to those just starting out but don’t have an idea of what to expect once landing their first gig.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://latfusa.com
• Instagram: ayubu_yazeed