We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Fayza Khalifa a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Fayza , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you signed with an agent or manager? Why or why not?

Yes, I have an agent who helps me find opportunities and supports me in navigating the creative industry. We connected after I auditioned for them, and they gave me incredibly positive feedback about my work. That meeting left me feeling like they not only understood my potential but also shared a genuine excitement about my career, which was really encouraging. I decided to work with them because I felt they believed in me and could help open doors I might not be able to on my own. They also had a strong reputation for representing talent with care and integrity, which was really important to me.
I think they decided to work with me because they saw my passion and commitment to my craft. I always try to approach every project with authenticity and a willingness to learn and grow, which I think stood out to them. I also bring a unique perspective to my work, and I try to let my individuality shine through in every role or opportunity I take on. I feel fortunate to have someone in my corner who sees the value in what I do and is invested in helping me build my career.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Fayza Khalifa, a Brazilian actress and performing artist based in NYC. My journey into the creative industry began with a passion for storytelling and a belief in the transformative power of performance. Growing up, I was captivated by how art can connect people, inspire reflection, and challenge perspectives. This passion led me to pursue a career in theater and film, where I’ve found endless opportunities to grow and create meaningful work.
As an actress, I’ve had the privilege of performing in several Off-Broadway plays and collaborating with well-known directors and theater groups in both New York and Brazil. My experiences in Brazil, working with acclaimed directors and companies, were instrumental in shaping my craft and fueling my passion for socially and culturally relevant storytelling. Recently, I was part of a play written by Grammy-nominated JC Hopkins, which gave me the opportunity to contribute to a compelling and resonant production.
In addition to theater, I’ve worked in commercials, including leading the Away campaign as the main talent and collaborating on a commercial for Saks, a major global brand. These projects allowed me to combine performance with visual storytelling, further broadening my creative experience. I also had the opportunity to work as a performing artist during New York Fashion Week for Padina Bondar’s sustainable collection at the DTR Modern Gallery. This innovative show celebrated eco-conscious fashion and allowed me to bring my love for performance to a new platform.
What sets me apart is my commitment to creating work that feels both authentic and impactful. Whether performing on stage, in front of the camera, or in alternative performance spaces, I strive to bring depth and intention to every role. I’m particularly drawn to projects that explore social and cultural themes, as I believe art is a powerful tool for sparking dialogue and inspiring change.
I’m most proud of the diversity of my career so far—performing in Off-Broadway productions, collaborating with major brands, and engaging in meaningful storytelling across different mediums. Each experience has been a stepping stone, allowing me to connect with audiences and continue growing as an artist.
For those who follow my work, I want them to know that my journey is driven by passion, persistence, and a love for storytelling. Whether in theater, film, commercials, or performance art, my goal is to create meaningful and transformative experiences that resonate with people and leave a lasting impact.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

By recognizing the immense value that art brings to our culture, communities, and collective growth. One of the most important things is to create accessible opportunities for artists to develop their craft, share their work, and sustain their careers. This can include increasing funding for the arts, establishing grants, and providing affordable spaces for artists to rehearse, perform, and exhibit their work.
Another key aspect is fostering a culture that values creativity—not just as entertainment, but as an essential part of human expression and social progress. This means integrating the arts into education, ensuring that children and young people have access to creative programs that inspire them to dream and innovate. It also means celebrating diverse voices and stories, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and ensuring that every artist has a platform to be seen and heard.
Additionally, there needs to be more respect and fair compensation for artists. Too often, creative work is undervalued, and many artists struggle to make a living despite the impact their work has on society. Supporting fair pay and ethical practices within industries that rely on creative talent is essential for building a sustainable ecosystem.
Finally, audiences play a big role. Supporting local artists, attending performances, buying tickets, and sharing their work can make a huge difference. When people engage with the arts, they help create a world where creativity is not just appreciated but actively nurtured.
Art has the power to challenge, heal, and transform, and society thrives when its artists thrive. By investing in and valuing creativity, we can build a more connected, empathetic, and inspired world.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a deep desire to tell stories that matter—stories that challenge, inspire, and spark meaningful conversations. As an artist, I feel a responsibility to create work that goes beyond entertainment, shedding light on social issues and exploring the complexities of human experience. Whether I’m acting in a play, performing in a film, or collaborating on a creative project, my goal is always to connect with audiences on a deeper level and encourage reflection.
I’m particularly passionate about highlighting themes of resistance, personal transformation, and mental health. These are subjects that resonate deeply with me, and I believe they deserve more space in our collective narratives. Through my work, I hope to bring visibility to underrepresented voices and experiences, creating a platform where people can see themselves reflected and feel less alone.
Ultimately, my mission is to create transformative art that not only inspires but also challenges societal norms. I want my work to open doors for new perspectives, cultivate empathy, and remind people of their capacity for growth and connection. It’s not always an easy path, but I firmly believe in the power of storytelling to make a difference, and that belief drives me every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fayzakhalifa.com
• Instagram: @fakhalifa

Image Credits

Mike Santiago
Jefferson Fernandes
Sophie Fabri
Cole Chilton