Meet Jessica Kemejuk | Actor, writer and producer

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

Hi Jessica, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
I’ve learned that timing can’t be forced. I’ve found this to be true in all the big things in life, and my career is no exception! There are ways to prepare yourself for opportunities by being the best you can be in your craft, taking the right actions, etc.- but when it comes to actually booking the acting job, there are so many factors that are completely out of your control that go into the decision made to hire or not hire you. It’ll drive you crazy if you try to control the situation or worry too much about fixing anything (unless it’s concrete feedback) so the best you can do is show up, do your best, and leave the rest to fate.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an actor who also writes and produces! I am most proud of the first short film that I co-wrote, co-produced and acted in. I wrote a piece about my mother and the AAPI community, and was able to collaborate with some of the most incredible and talented people I have met in this industry. I loved the experience of making my first film after having been a part of the industry for so long, because I was able to bring in some really special people I’ve met along the way. I was particularly proud of the diversity we had in every area, from crew to post production.

The journey of being an actor is full of ups and downs- it has never been easy, though I have been so fortunate in many ways. I have always had a really incredible team of people behind me and have had the opportunity to act in many beautiful projects. Creating in-between jobs and not just waiting for auditions and jobs to come in has been the key to staying sane and enjoying the process.

I also go through periods of being in class and not being in class. I was always religious about being in class until I realized I started gripping to the direction of others without leaving freedom for my own instincts. Whenever I feel myself losing my own intuition, I’ll take a break and find myself in other ways – whether it’s personal growth, movement or voice workshops, or traveling and just being completely present. Once I can hear my own voice again, I go back to class and enjoy all the magic and reflection that space has to offer. Acting is a collaborative art, so finding the right class or creative space for you to dive in is so important.

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?
As an LA Native I have so many suggestions! I recently moved to the East Side, so I’m particularly excited about this side of town these days. Sadly, one of my favorite places is Alta Dena. Everything about it is so special, the nature, way it’s nestled against the mountains and the history and strength of its community. It will take time, but it will be back.

I am partial to Pasadena and Highland Park- I’d start with a yoga class at Kinship Highland Park, then walk over to Highly Likely for brunch. I’d show them my favorite flower shop, Lenita by Grita, a Brazillian flower shop and take them to KOTN, an all organic, all cotton clothing store to do some shopping! Then, I’d take them down to Kumquat and wait in line for my favorite drink (GPS) and do a little more browsing on York before having a yummy Taiwanese lunch at JOY!

Then, I’d take them over to Pasadena to walk up Green Street to just browse and take in the beautiful architecture. I’d end the day taking them to a couple of the secret parks I found…but I’ll have to keep them a secret for now!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shoutout to my sister, Danielle Carter! We are technically best friends who have been in each others’ lives since preschool , but she is every bit my actual sister! She always holds a vision for me of what I am capable of, even when I deeply feel the downs of what can be a very up-and-down journey.

Instagram: jessicakemejuk

Image Credits
Adam Hendershott