Rising Stars: Meet Walid Chaya of West Hollywood, CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Walid Chaya

Hi Walid, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m an actor, director, and writer based in Los Angeles, but my journey began long before I landed on the West Coast. Alongside my creative work, I’ve also become an entertainment entrepreneur, specializing as an acting and publicity coach.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of appearing in popular television shows and films like NBC’s Blacklist: Redemption, CBS’s Madam Secretary, and Hulu’s The Looming Tower. I host the “Lights Camera Conversation” show, available wherever you listen to podcasts. I also enjoy working behind the scenes, creating projects that tell meaningful stories.

One of my proudest accomplishments is my film ‘Driving Ms. Saudi,’ which I wrote, directed, and starred in. It won “Best Comedy Short” at Dubai’s WOW Mid-East Film Fair, received global acclaim, and was even presented at the World Expo. My latest short film “Darn It Darla!” is currently in the film festival circuit. The film follows Naveen, a former child star, as she fights for meaningful roles in Hollywood while contending with her manipulative talent manager—portrayed by me—in a dark comedy that exposes the industry’s control over artists.

My production company, Moonlit Wings Productions, started in my hometown in the greater DC area and has since expanded to Hollywood. It’s been recognized as offering some of the “Best Arts Programs” by Washington Family Magazine readers, with exciting new projects always in development.

I’m also the founder of Studio for Performing Arts LA, where I help jumpstart actors’ careers through programs led by myself and industry VIPs. Whether in-person or online, I’m committed to creating opportunities for talent from all backgrounds. The studio’s dedication to diversity earned a BroadwayWorld Award for “Best Special Event,” specifically for supporting MENASA performers in partnership with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.

In addition to teaching and creating, I use my expertise to offer publicity services, helping artists elevate their profiles and advance their careers. Every step of the way, I aim to empower others to reach their full creative potential while continuing to grow as an artist myself. Learn more at studioforperformingarts.com and walidchaya.com.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’m fortunate now to share everything I’ve learned with rising artists, helping them navigate the same blockages and hurdles I faced, offering a more streamlined path with the support I didn’t always have. The road has definitely not been smooth. I’ve had to carve my own way in this industry, figuring things out as I went. My parents, being first-generation Americans, did everything they could to support me—they put me through college and encouraged my dreams in showbiz and arts education. But since they weren’t familiar with the entertainment world, their guidance was mostly limited to the basics, although I do dedicate my entrepreneurial spirit to my father.

There were times when I wasn’t sure how to break through, moments of self-doubt, and periods when the road ahead seemed unclear. I had to rely on my own perseverance and determination to push through. Fortunately, I had mentors and supporters who believed in me and helped me find my way. And today, I’m grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, as they’ve shaped not only my journey but my ability to guide others who are starting out on their own path.

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’m an actor, director, writer, and entertainment entrepreneur based in Los Angeles. My work spans across acting, film directing, and arts education, but I also specialize in coaching aspiring actors and providing publicity services for artists looking to elevate their careers. I’m best known for my work in popular TV shows like “Blacklist: Redemption” and “Madam Secretary”, as well as for writing, directing, and starring in my breakout film “Driving Ms. Saudi”, which won “Best Comedy Short” at the WOW Mid-East Film Fair in Dubai.

I’m also the founder of Studio For Performing Arts LA*, where I help aspiring actors jumpstart their careers through programs I lead alongside industry experts. Our studio is known for its focus on diversity and its commitment to helping artists develop both their craft and their public image. We were honored with a BroadwayWorld Award for “Best Special Event” for our work supporting MENASA performers, in collaboration with the MENA Arts Advocacy Coalition.

What sets me apart is my dedication to providing a comprehensive, supportive environment for artists. I believe that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about resilience, preparation, and having the right guidance. My unique perspective comes from having navigated this industry largely on my own, learning from both the triumphs and struggles along the way. What I’m most proud of is being able to use what I’ve learned to help other artists avoid the obstacles I faced, creating opportunities for them to flourish. It’s this commitment to mentorship, along with my diverse experience in both the front and behind the scenes of the industry, that I think truly sets me apart.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I believe perseverance is the most important quality to my success. This industry is full of challenges, and there are countless moments of uncertainty and self-doubt along the way. What has carried me through is the ability to keep pushing forward, even when things seemed tough or unclear. Perseverance means staying committed to your goals, learning from setbacks, and continuously adapting to new circumstances. It’s this resilience that has helped me not only overcome obstacles but also stay passionate and focused on my work, despite the ups and downs of the journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://walidchaya.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/walid.chaya
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/walidc
• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/walidchaya/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/walidchaya
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@walidchaya
• Other: https://studioforperformingarts.com