Meet Aja Mahogany | Actor, Singer, Model, & Dancer

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

Hi Aja, what role has risk played in your life or career?
For a long time I was afraid to take risks- for fear of looking stupid or doing something wrong. I was afraid that risk would put my insecurities on display. Because of that, I wasn’t doing well in my acting classes. I was focused on trying to mimic someone else and give THEIR performance as opposed to my own. The feedback I received reflected that, and it crushed me.

I couldn’t let fear be the reason I missed out on my dreams. I decided then that I had to take the risk of loving myself, my work, and trust that I am a creative, sensitive, and strong actor. To trust yourself is a great risk, but it has opened many doors for me. I’ve been able to book work within film/tv, theatre (both on and backstage), modeling, and fashion among other industries. Risk has granted me the foundation of my career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a Kansas born actor, singer, model, and dancer. I left home to attend The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York back in 2018. I was left in the city and grappling with my declining mental health and budding adulthood alone. Not to mention the cost of living is way higher than back home- and I don’t come from money. On top of that, I had to focus on developing my skills as an actor. I was extremely overwhelmed and unsure of my worth to hold the title of “creator”. These things were very challenging to handle all at once.

The biggest thing I’ve learned is, if you keep your head up and do what you’re called to do and you’re kind (to yourself and others)- everything else will fall in line. Progress is never linear, but I am extremely proud of myself for pushing through and continuing to do so. Most recently I played Winny in We Jump Broom, a short play that presented at The Samuel French 47th Annual Off-Broadway Short Play Festival at Playwrights Horizons.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
1. I’m a huge book lover, so I’d have to take my friend to The Strand Bookstore. 2. Because my dad’s side of the family is originally from South Carolina, I’m a sucker for southern comfort food. That being said, we would 100% eat at Sylvia’s.
3. A dance class!
4. MoCADA- Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Art.

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 would love to shoutout my family first and foremost. Their love and support has kept me headstrong and my heart full. I would also like to thank Adrienne D. Williams, The National Black Theatre, and Janet Igah for planting seeds.

Website: ajamahogany.com

Instagram: @ajamahogany

Linkedin: @ajamahogany

Other: TV/Film Reel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CF96Nbr8V7g&feature=youtu.be

Image Credits
J. Monroe, Jade from JD Photography, Yaya Sonyini, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, On the Quays