We recently connected with Maurice Antonio and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Maurice thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
The first time I knew I wanted to pursue the artistic path was when I was casted as the lead in the school play during my second grade year. Initially, the part was given to another student. When it was time to rehearse, he had not learned his lines. The teacher asked if someone else wanted to take on the role. Immediately I said yes and literally had a weekend to learn my lines. I knew at that moment I was drawn to the entertainment industry because of the reception I received from the audience. I would go on to be the lead in a number of school plays. However, being from South Carolina during that time, the opportunities for a career in the entertainment industry were few and far in between. So I pursued a career in health. Upon receiving my degree, I still had a great love for entertainment and decided to uproot my life to Los Angeles to take on the industry.
Maurice, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am from South Carolina and a proud graduate of SC State University and the Medical University of South Carolina. I earned my Doctor of Pharmacy degree and became the first black male pharmacist of Eutawville. After working years in pharmacy, I decided to move to Los Angeles to do voiceover work. After two years of being in Los Angeles, Inwas cast in my first feature film ‘Ole B.R.Y.C.E.’ and immediately knew I was where I was supposed to be. In 2017, I started my own production company M.O.E. Productions where we create excellent and high quality content that impacts, engages audiences and brings diverse stories to life; while fostering a collaborative environment that amplifies creative voices.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
As an artist, creative and business owner, the most satisfying aspect of my role is the fact that my company can offer a platform for fellow creatives to exhibit their talents and craftsmanship. Given the industry’s changes, our objective is to keep productions ongoing, thereby safeguarding the narrative tradition and the passion that fuels it.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
In a world often dominated by negativity, I endeavored to create a space that exudes positivity, which originates from within. My objective and intended outcome from my profile is to convey a message that showcases the power of perseverance and faith in surmounting obstacles and achieving one’s goals. Furthermore, it is vital to recognize that one’s initial career choices do not predetermine their future, and that passion can be utilized to craft a purposeful life. Additionally, age is not a determining factor in one’s career path, and individuals can make a strategic pivot at any moment to bring their dreams to fruition.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://moeproductionsllc.net
- Instagram: DrMALee
- Facebook: Maurice A. Lee
