Today we’d like to introduce you to Nadia Adelay.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born a Creative. I felt it at a very young age. From writing books, with self-drawn illustrations, to forming amateur girl groups with my younger family members; I was always one who preferred entertaining over being entertained. Needless to say, my creativity peaked at an early age, and I was well aware of it. My mom and dad (a self-employed special event coordinator, and a Grammy-award winning producer; respectively), are both creatives in their own right, and I truly believe that had a big hand in inspiring my path towards my own goals and passions. Writing, acting, and storytelling has been my life’s passions for as long as I can recall. I’ve always subconsciously known I was put on this planet to execute and pursue those activities, however, my biggest qualm was always in which the way I would go about doing so. School was always a deterrent; as well as my extra-curricular and for such a long time, I felt like I could never really give it my all. Fortunately, after I graduated from Florida International University with my bachelorette degree in Business Marketing, an unforeseen sense of urgency arose within me, and I felt no other necessity in life than to truly devote myself to achieving my dreams. I started writing more songs, envisioning more content, and really taking my creative life back into my own control. My first ever single called “Teriyaki” released in October of 2018. That alone lit a fire in my core to keep it going; to keep reaching for more, and to keep striving towards better. Soon after, my very first self-directed music video, (for Teriyaki) dropped about four months later and I could not have been more proud of the work that I invested in. Not just of the physical outcome, but simply because of my tenacity to do what I’ve always dreamt of doing, to ultimately follow and nurture my passions.
Great, 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?
In my opinion, the road to success will never be smooth. Throughout your journey, you’ll experience so many ups and downs, cries and laughs, unforgettable times and moments that you pray will escape your memory. It’s inevitable. Personally, I have faced a number of disappointments; as well as rejection, fear, heartbreak, discouragement, and the list goes on. Throughout all the turmoil though, I would say my biggest struggle was keeping my faith in the Lord and entrusting that everything that has happened and will happen in my life is already predetermined by the Almighty. The best advice that I can extend to young women just starting their journey would be to keep your focus on the reason(s) why you’re doing what you’re doing; and try your very best not to lose sight of that. Your “reason why” will always be your guiding factor whenever you feel the obstacles of life are derailing you from staying on track or clouding your vision. Also, self-reassurance is more important than people tend to give credit to. Just remember to give yourself a pat on the back every now and then. You work hard, so at least you deserve that.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am currently a free-lance actor, unsigned artist, and an amateur director. I know, lol, I have a few hats that I interchange every now and then. But out of those three titles, I wouldn’t necessarily say I specialize in just one. I earnestly try to allocate my time and attention to practicing and progressing in each of my talents. I LOVE every nuance that encompasses the art of film & cinematography, while simultaneously keeping music extremely close to my heart. I take immense pride in all my endeavors; however, the most recent accomplishment that takes precedence in my mind is the release of my very own, self-directed music video to my single “Teriyaki”. And I feel as though what sets me apart from the others is my inability to deliver half-ass work. Whenever I pursue a project you, can bet that my blood, sweat, and tears will be left on the floor every time. No doubt about that. If not, I’d just be doing an injustice to not only myself, but the artistry as a whole.
We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
Female leadership has always been a topic that is praised very seldom. In my particular industry, you don’t hear too many situations of female leaders being held in the forefront. Being that the film and music industries are so male-dominated, it forces women to keep a strong mind and diligent demeanor to actually make an impact, let alone be considered a leader. I learned that lesson at a very early stage in my career, while still continuing to learn as I go along. Females are essentially just human beings at the end of the day; we worry, we cry, we make mistakes… we’re not perfect. But what makes a quintessential leader is being able to go through all of those trials, while still holding your head high, standing your ground firmly, and getting the job done.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=adelay
- Email: nadia4life@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadia_adelay/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nadia.rami.58
Image Credit:
IdoEyo, Remy_xdd, XBryanPhoto, Gerry.laurore
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