Meet Alexandria Collins: Screenwriter, Director and Actress

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

Hi Alexandria, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think risk can be a scary but necessary part of life and of someone’s growth journey. We all strive for safety and protection biologically but for some, the call to adventure or risk is dominant. I suppose I would be considered a risk taker although I’ve only just followed instinct and interest. But, I took risks as a child to share my poetry and stories with friends. I took risks in high school and college to run of SGA offices and be a leader on campus. I took risks by moving to NYC and LA alone on one-way flights to pursue my dreams. I’m risking looking foolish now or “failing” when I take risks like start my own digital series (Goals N’ Shit) or write screenplays and pitch myself. Risk is the only way to long-lasting reward. I believe when we shy from taking the leap, we leave a lot of fulfillment on the table.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been creating most of my life. I started telling stories and writing stories as a young child and thankfully had a family that supported me in following my instincts and abilities. I’m really proud of how multi-disciplinary my creative work is. I love acting, directing, writing, painting, dancing — staying true to exploring all sides of myself and not closing anything off makes me really proud. Career wise though, I’ve focused on filmmaking and acting and it’s been quite the journey! The past eight years I’ve worked in NYC and LA and through many highs and lows, what’s kept me going is an enduring belief in my talents. Also having really supportive friends and family has been a saving grace. They’ve never wavered and that has filled my cup when it’s gotten hard. I want folks that encounter my work to be inspired to tell their own authentic stories. I’m still building my “brand” but I believe that when a person lives in their true, full authenticity all good things will follow.

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.
Okay, a few must visit places in no particular order: – Griffith Park (take long hikes through back trails!) – DTLA Artists District – Zuma Beach in Malibu – All Time restaurant in Los Feliz – The Getty Museum So much more to explore but the city in general is great!

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?
My mother deserves all the credit for me being where I am–hands down. My mother, Lucretia Shaw Collins, has been my advocate, my rock, my cheerleader from day one. I am so thankful that as a young child, she fostered my talents and never made me hide my gifts. I was put in theatre camps, dance camps, gymnastics etc. all at my own asking. She’s just given me so much and no matter what, is in my corner with full belief. Having that kind of support is exactly what a creative needs when the going gets tough.

Website: https://www.alexandriacollins.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acscollins/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandriacscollins/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ACSCollins