Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jada Capri Ward. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Jada Capri thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I knew for as long as I can remember. I grew up watching Disney Channel; and around five years old I made up my mind that being a performer was what I wanted to do. I would watch an episode or a scene from a movie, then run to a mirror and practice what I saw. All of the actors at that time danced, sang, and acted; so for me it just made sense to practice and get really good at all three. My family always instilled the importance of education; so as I got older, I knew that needed to be top priority. Pursuing my education was important to me too; but performing was always right there as well.

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

I am a performer, creative, advocate, and activist. I started performing recreationally when I was young; and I was always a part of school clubs and various groups for dancing, acting, and singing. I knew early on that I wanted to have a career as a performer but I wasn’t sure how to pursue it professionally at the time. Growing up, I also loved helping others and did so in any way I could. I knew that I also wanted that to be a part of my career as well. Both my passions for helping others and performing continued through college where I decided to double major in both Political Science and Music (with a concentration in voice). I served in an array of clubs and held positions where I first began to establish my roots in advocacy and activism, such as the Student Government Association (Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity Representative), Minority Students in the Social Sciences Association (President), NAACP Club (Vice President), and the Commemoration Committee (President Appointed-Only Student Member). I was also a part of clubs and groups that contributed to my performing aspirations such as the Dance Club, Women’s Choir, and Chamber Singers’ Choir.
Once I graduated college in May 2019, I began working for Congress in Congressman Steny Hoyer’s district offices; first as a Constituent Liaison and then as an Associate Liaison. In my role, I communicated with all federal agencies, organizations, and other political offices in hopes resolving issues that were brought to our office’s attention. I also corresponded with our legislative staff to bring awareness to the legislative gaps in policies and procedures that hinder resolutions. Within my role as a congressional staffer, I also mentored students who aspire to work for Congress as well.

Aside from my work in Congress, I have been actively pursuing my performance career. It’s been a good challenge because there isn’t really a blueprint. You truly have to be passionate about your craft and know what you want out of it in order to navigate the path that’s best for you. For me, training, mentorship, and building community have been my best friends. Also, travelling between the DMV, NYC, ATL, and LA for classes and auditions has been really helpful. I’m currently enrolled in dancing, acting, and singing lessons; and I have also been a part of dance/performance mentorship programs by Tia Rivera and Kiki Ely. So far, I booked my first live performance with Asake at Broccoli City Festival 2023; and I also participated in a video with political commentator Angela Rye. One of the biggest lessons that I’ve learned so far is to take advantage of every opportunity that feels right.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

All in all, I would say mentors and mentorship programs. There are so many benefits to being directly mentored and trained by someone who has already been where you aspire to be, or who at least is in the same field and can offer insight and advice. As I mentioned, there isn’t a blueprint or a direct path for this field so it can be difficult to navigate on your own.

With that being said, I think everything happens for a reason. I believe that the programs I joined and the people that I am being trained by, presented at the perfect time for me. I knew when I was really young that I wanted to pursue a career in the entertainment and T.V./film industries; however, there were life lessons and experiences that I needed to go through first. Everything that I have experienced in life has gotten me exactly where I am supposed to be; which is why all of the right people and opportunities flow in perfect alignment.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

Since college, I usually received weird looks when I told people that I was double majoring in Political Science and Music. They would say that it is an odd combination. I even had people suggest that I should major in Political Science and only minor in Music as “people major in what they can find a job in, and minor in their passions.” I completely disagree with that mindset. For me, my combination makes sense. When I look back at the course of my life, I can’t think of anything more fitting.

I majored in Political Science because I want to help others in the most profound way that I can; and politics literally determines everything in society. It’s best to learn and understand it to know how you can influence and create positive changes in people’s lives and communities. I majored in Music because I wanted to learn about it, be trained in it, and pursue a career in it.

I know that I am going to be in the entertainment industry and I want to be known for being a great all around performer in terms of dance, music, and T.V/film. With that, I want to use my platform to bring awareness to various issues. I want to be a voice for my generation helping to bridge the gap between (what seems to be) complex politics and how people are impacted daily. I also want to have a hand in influencing/contributing to the policies that impact people’s lives. When most celebs gain platforms, they then become advocates; however, I want to already have my roots in advocacy established before my platform arrives. With my work in Congress, along with my rising performance career I definitely think I’m off to a great start.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @Jadaacapri
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/jadaward

Image Credits
Neely Townes Michael Webber Anaiise Diaz