We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Gena Lashay. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Gena below.

Hi Gena , thanks for joining us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

My journey hasn’t been traditional, but it’s mine—and I own it completely. I believe there was purpose in my process, and I wouldn’t change a single thing. I am right where I’m meant to be. God’s timing is perfect!

My acting career began in grade school and continued through high school, where I was an active member of the drama club. However, life took a different turn when I became a teen mom and had to choose between pursuing my dream and raising my daughter. Twenty-five years later, after both of my children graduated from high school, I found my way back to the stage through local theatre in Orlando, Florida.

During that time, I balanced a full-time career in education while performing in several stage plays back-to-back. Yet deep down, I knew I wanted more—I saw myself on the big screen. Determined to take the next step, I found a reputable acting coach, began working toward finding representation, and invested in myself through researching, acting in a few short films, and taking professional headshots. Six months later, I proudly signed with East Coast Talent Agency.

I’m now a proud Southeast-based working actor, grateful to be part of a community where heart, hustle, and artistry meet.

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

I am most proud of my resilience and my faith. Starting a career in television and film acting at the age of 40 can be both overwhelming and intimidating, but I truly believe that I have no limits in this industry. I take great pride in learning and studying the craft. I respect it wholeheartedly. My commitment and dedication to continuous growth sets me apart from others.

I also never wanted to be a one-trick pony—I asked God to allow me to use all of my gifts, and He has done just that. In addition to acting, I am an award-winning, internationally published model with experience in runway, print, commercial work, and red-carpet hosting. I modeled for my first magazine cover shoot last fall. My passion for organization and fashion also led me to work behind the scenes in film and television, where I’ve served as Prop Master, Set Dresser, Costume Assistant, and Costume Supervisor. Most recently, I proudly completed my first job as Costume Department Head.

My journey is a testament to faith, hard work, and the belief that it’s never too late to walk in your purpose.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an actor is the ability to connect — to touch people through storytelling. I love being able to step into someone else’s world, feel their emotions, and bring truth to their story in a way that resonates with others. It’s healing, not just for the audience, but for me as well.

Every role I play reminds me that purpose has no deadline. After taking a long break to raise my children and returning to this industry later in life, I see acting as a gift — one that allows me to express my faith, resilience, and creativity all at once. Knowing that my work can inspire someone else to chase their dreams, no matter where they are in life, is the most rewarding feeling in the world.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My mission as an actor is to inspire others through authenticity, faith, and perseverance. I want my journey to be living proof that it’s never too late to follow your calling. Every role I take on is an opportunity to represent real people — women with strength, vulnerability, and depth — and to tell stories that move and empower others.

I also see my work as a form of ministry. Acting allows me to use the gifts God has given me to uplift, connect, and remind people that purpose has no expiration date. Whether I’m in front of the camera, on stage, or behind the scenes, my goal is to leave a positive impact — to create art that resonates long after the credits roll.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/genalashay/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gena.a.lashay/
• Other: Linktr.ee
  https://linktr.ee/genalashay

Image Credits

Timothy Phillips
Spanclick Media
Anasthashia Photography