Meet Ne’shaunda Mays | Actress

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ne’shaunda Mays and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ne’Shaunda, how do you think about risk?
You never know what you’re capable of accomplishing without taking risks! Taking a leap of faith is how I landed many roles in film and television! I never wanted to be a “Should’ve, Would’ve, Could’ve been” girl. When applying yourself, you have a possibility of succeeding! If it doesn’t work out, there’s always a different route or another time. It’s never a loss. You only fail if you don’t try!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started acting in Theater at the age of six. I auditioned and participated in stage plays from elementary through high school. I continued theater classes as my elective courses. I took another theater class in college at Prairie View A&M University.

At the age of twenty one, I met actor/casting director Timothy Slater. He introduced me to the film side of acting, by doing a few background projects as an extra. That was when I decided to give theater a break and pursue acting in film!

I paid close attention on set. I soaked up information like a sponge. Went to acting seminars and watched online courses. Once I was comfortable enough, I began to audition for Stand In and featured roles. From there, crime tv reenactment shows, independent films, etc.

It wasn’t easy. I got A LOT of no’s, and minimal support for a while. I worked twelve hour jobs over night, and amazon flex part time. Just to be able to pay bills and go to auditions during the day. I was physically and mentally drained many times. But with prayer, patience, and persistence, I continued to move forward.

I’m proud of myself for never giving up!! In spite of the obstacles life threw at me. I honestly believe God gave me a vision and a purpose. With that, I had tunnel vision. I never let anyone’s negativity or doubt pull me away from my purpose! I’ve come so far, and still have so much further to go!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Lol honestly, I work and travel so much from being booked and busy. I’m not sure I have the best local recommendations. I always try to find things to do when I travel.

However, I do love the zydeco, trail ride culture in Houston and Bar 5015. Also, stop and try Dona Leti’s Surf & Turf egg rolls! For Caribbean food lovers, Love Bird or Nyammings restaurant!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give recognition to those who genuinely support me! Whether it’s tough love (my mother Joanna Howard), honest criticism (my friend Jahmar Hill), or acknowledging my accomplishments (my cousin Patricia Carmon)! I get so much love from everyone in different places, including castmates and strangers on social media! Teachers, coaches, classmates (Alief, Tx), Family (Beaumont/Houston Tx, Crowley/Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, LA). Lol it wouldn’t be right not to mention them. They go so hard for me! I also want to thank the directors who saw something in me and took a chance with me!

Website: https://imdb.com/name/nm12824432

Instagram: @iam_neshaunda

Image Credits
Warren Austin

Akaah Eyimah

Kevo Aregbe