We had the good fortune of connecting with Nadjana Chandra and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nadjana, what role has risk played in your life or career?

I love and hate risk all at the same time. However, I wouldn’t be a professional dancer and model if it wasn’t for taking several risks in my life. At 21 years of age I faced the decision of either continuing my studies at university or move to VIVA LAS VEGAS and start my professional dance career. After training at New York City’s top dance schools such as Alvin Ailey, Steps on Broadway and BDC, I knew I had what it took to turn my dreams into reality. Two years after leaving NYC, I decided to face my fears, take a risk and pack my bags. I was headed to Las Vegas on a one way ticket, ready to turn my dreams into reality. I remember being so scared not knowing how things would turn out, but I always knew that I would rather “say oh“ well than “what if”! On the other side of risk is always a reward. The reward might not always appear when we want it to appear, but let me tell you: It WILL appear.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

I believe my most unique gift is my extroverted personality and being able to connect with people from anywhere in the world. Regardless of how influential or famous they may be, I will walk up and introduce myself and strike up a conversation with anyone. I’ve done so with some of the most famous people in our industry and even though I may have been a real fan girl and nervous at that moment, I did not let it stop me from doing what I do best lol. Your NETWORK is your NET WORTH in this industry, and my outgoing personality has been a huge plus. It has helped me get to know the right people who have been very influential in my life and career. I’ve gotten to where I am today by putting in the WORK! No shortcuts just hard work, consistency and real blood, sweat and tears. It has not been easy and I’ve gotten so many more No’s than Yes’s, but all it really ever takes is that one YES. I absolutely love what I do, which has helped me overcome some dark and sad moments when I wanted to give up. Learning to deal with rejection and not take it so personal is probably the hardest lesson I had to overcome. However, the one thing I do know and am a testament of: What is meant for you, WILL FIND YOU! I am proud to say that I’ve worked in three different industries of dance. I’m currently living and working in L.A. as a commercial dancer. Prior to that, I danced in several famous Las Vegas review shows on the strip, and I also was a company ensemble member of The Las Vegas Contemporary Dance Theater now known as Contemporary West Dance Theater. I am extremely proud of myself for keeping the promise I made to myself as a child.

I was born and raised in Munich Germany, and as a little girl I always dreamt of being a performer. I’ve been able to support myself as a working dancer and model since the age of 23 and now have performed with some of the world’s biggest celebrities.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Ooooh, I love this question but it’s also tough one because L.A. is so huge and has so much to offer. But first I would take my bestie to my favorite breakfast spot on Ventura Blvd called Blu Jam cafe. From there on I would give her a tour of Ventura Blvd. Ventura Boulevard is home to so many great shops, thrift shops restaurants, cafes etc. After that I would hit up Melrose Blvd and look for some cute outfits. Melrose has so many unique vintage and brand name shops. Next
up would be the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach which one can visit in the
same day since they are close to each other. Then I would take the PCH (Pacific Coast Hwy) all the way up to Malibu and show her my very favorite beach, El Matador Beach. It’s one of the prettiest beaches in the Los Angeles area in my opinion. Malibu has so many amazing restaurants as well.  Therefore we would stop somewhere for food and drinks before heading back to the Valley. Another must do while in L.A. would be my favorite brunch Spot, Castaway in Burbank. I absolutely love their brunch. Their bottomless Mimosas are my favorite. Nobody tops their unique mimosa menu. I would also take my bestie to the SLS pool, I always have a blast when going there. The W and Highlight Room have great pool parties which are always a blast. Another spot that I very much enjoy for
drinks and party vibes is Lock and Key. However, L.A. has the best SPEAKEASIES I’ve ever been to! They are somewhat hidden and you have to figure out how to find them or get in, but I won’t give away anymore secrets hahaha. Lastly, I would rent a boat in either Long Beach or Marina Del Rey and cruise the ocean. Oh, how could I forget hiking! Runyon Canyon and Griffith Park are an absolute MUST!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I don’t even know where to begin because it took a village to help facilitate my success. First off, I would love to shout out my parents who were and are artists themselves. They have always supported my career and continue to encourage me even on the days I don’t necessarily believe in myself. I would love to dedicate my shout out to several people, because they honestly ALL played a role. My godfather Armando Acosta, helped set up my move to Las Vegas and always supported my dream of being a dancer. He played a huge role and deserves so much recognition. He taught me that ART is LIFE and for me ART truly is life. I also owe a major thank you to my man Alexander W. He is my daily support system and my biggest fan alongside my mom. There have been several times I wanted to cancel or not show up to auditions, but he would make me go anyways which resulted in my first major job booking on the Las Vegas strip. He is also the reason I decided to move to L.A. 4 years ago. He had the vision that I would flourish in L.A. not only as a performer, but also as an actress and business owner. Lastly, I would love to dedicate my story to some amazing mentors and friends that have taken me under their wing in LA. First off is my brother, Adrian Wiltshire Aka DJ Dubz. You are a major force in the industry and I have learned so much from you. You may not know it but you inspire me on so many levels. Next up, the one and only, my mentor and friend Amy Allen!
She is a master at helping you discover who you truly are as an artist and finding your star quality. I couldn’t be more thankful for her mentorship, I have grown
tremendously during my time learning/working with her. Lastly, I want to thank Hollywood and Tia Rivera. Hollywood is probably one of the most creative people I’ve ever met. Thank you for taking me under your wing and kicking my a*s in
class. Tia girl, you already know what it is. I learn from you everyday, you have elevated my mindset and personal growth to a whole new level, and I’m forever thankful to you.

Instagram: @hotchocolate23

Facebook: Nadjana Chandra

Youtube: Nadjana Chandra

Image Credits
Cecile Boko Ivan Avila

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