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

Hi Lauryn, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
i’ve always been drawn to the arts; my mother says I was singing before I could talk and dancing before I could fully walk. Creativity has been a fundamental part of who I am for as long as I can remember. I had my first performance was at the age of five, and from that moment, I fell in love with the stage.

For me, pursuing a creative career is about more than just self-expression; it’s about harnessing the power of influence to write a new narrative that fosters a more conscious and inclusive future. I believe that storytelling is a powerful tool that can reflect the diverse heroes of our past and illuminate the paths we can take moving forward.

Through my work, I aim to create art that resonates deeply, challenges societal norms, and opens up conversations about representation and inclusivity. I want my performances and stories to inspire others to see themselves reflected in the narratives we share, ultimately contributing to a more empathetic and understanding world.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m an actress, writer , model, producer, and director based in LA—essentially, I like to think of myself as a well-rounded creative. I’m particularly excited about my most recent film, *You Picked the Wrong One*, where I star and also serve as an executive producer. This project is very meaningful to me because I truly enjoy all the different aspects of filmmaking and creating a positive environment on set. I can’t wait to share it with audiences.

At the moment, I’m incredibly proud of my work in producing and writing new films. I recently founded my production company, Tell-A-Vision Productions, a full-service company with both film and marketing divisions. Our mission is to bring together local filmmakers and artists to meet the needs of brands and networks, while prioritizing fair compensation and inclusivity. In our first quarter, we’ve produced two commercials and are currently in pre-production for two upcoming film projects.

Reaching this point in my career has been possible through a crystal-clear vision, tenacity, consistency, and a deep faith in God. I wouldn’t say the journey has been easy, nor would I label it as hard; rather, every trial has been a lesson that has brought me closer to understanding who God has created me to be. One of the primary ways I navigate challenges is through prayer—because prayer truly changes things. I’ve also learned to embrace humility, recognizing that I don’t have all the answers leaves space for God to work.

A few key lessons I’ve learned along the way are the importance of maintaining a positive presence on set and practicing radically positive self-talk. Many of the roles I’ve booked have come through recommendations because I bring energy and enthusiasm to every project. I work hard, stay available to my directors, listen, and always aim to create a joyful atmosphere. This mindset is only possible because of my internal dialogue—what you put in truly comes out. To foster more grace with others, you first have to nurture it within yourself.

Additionally, I’ve learned not to take things personally in this industry. More often than not, decisions made are not a reflection of you. I’ve also come to celebrate the small victories; there’s no such thing as a minor project or premiere. Every opportunity is a step closer to manifesting your dreams, and every moment deserves to be celebrated.

One thing I want the world to know about me and my brand is that your dreams are valid. Your gifts and talents are intrinsically linked to those dreams, and they exist not just for you but for the benefit of the world. The world needs your unique contributions. I want people to understand that it’s possible to rise from adversity—I’ve faced challenging relationships and bullying, but I’ve emerged from those experiences forged by fire, without a hint of smoke. I want everyone to know that they can do the same.

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.
Maru Coffee
Kodo Coffee
Lost Issa Rae
My two Cents soul food
Ditroit Tacos

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to dedicate this article to my mother, who recognized my gifts and talents at a young age. She took the time to cultivate my interests, enrolling me in classes, fostering an environment where I could hone my skills- and she did not play about my rehearsals lol. She made it to every performance, and as a founder and CEO of her own company she has always been a shining example of intelligence and beauty. Thanks to her dedication and guidance, I have the opportunity to pursue my passions professionally today. A true believer in the power of dreams, I’m grateful to have a role model that inspires me everyday.
Her unwavering support and belief in me laid the foundation for my artistic journey. Her influence has been instrumental in shaping the artist I am, and for that, I am eternally grateful

Soundcloud: n.a

Other: n.a

Image Credits
Aaron Lacy
Robert Brody
RJ Maurer
Bernadette Marciniak

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.