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

Jaya , appreciate you joining us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

The moment writing clicked for me was in the eighth grade. We were assigned to adapt our own version of a classic fairytale, and I chose to retell the story of Little Red Riding Hood. I had always been a daydreamer, but being able write down my ideas was exciting. I had already had the idea wanting to work in entertainment from always being glued to my tv, but now I had a path.

Throughout high school and undergrad, I typed scripts without using proper software and just formatting on my own. It was a tough way of learning that would have been much easier with scriptwriting software. Finally, when I attended graduate school at the New York Film Academy, I gained access to Final Draft. Using Final Draft made everything much easier and taught me the proper placement of things on scripts. I would have loved to have this and learn it sooner!

Skills that I found most essential were reading, discipline, and being open to feedback. Reading creates a stronger writer. Taking time to read scripts strengthens creativity and challenges the way you approach storytelling. From reading to writing scripts requires discipline. It requires plenty of self accountability being a writer making sure I hit my own deadlines and deadlines of others when writing for others. Lastly, never feel above feedback. It is important being able to listen to others and be open to what they have to say. This does not mean all feedback has to be taken, but at least take time to consider. Stay open to learning.

Time management has always been an obstacle for me. Balancing assignments, life, and just finding down time. I have to keep myself accountable.

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

I am a writer and director originally from Texas who found her imagination through comic books. I love writing out of this world fantasy and action stories with characters that audiences can relate with even if their worlds are not the same.

I started my way into the industry by volunteering on production sets at during my time at Texas Christian University being a member of the Student Film Association. There I was able to build my on set skills, Being able to work on production sets and meet other crew members is amazing. Since then I have continued to work on production sets and work on my own projects. One of my favorite experiences was being a production intern with FOX Sports for eight months. At FOX Sports, I was able to gain high level production training with their NFL/NASCAR team working in the studio and at live events.

Although I write and direct my own work, I do provide writing, directing, and production assistance as a freelancer. I am always open to collaborate on projects and assist on sets. My writing skills also lends beyond just scripts but also copywriting, editorial, and content writing. For future collaborators and clients, I offer my writing abilities and production experience. I want to help bring your ideas to life.

I am most proud of my work and brand because it represents everything I believe in and love. Growing up as a little black girl who love comics and fantasy shows, I dreamed of being able to create them one day. Now having the opportunity to reach that dream has been everything for me. I hope my characters and their stories provide strong representation and excitement. It’s important for me that it is shown throughout my work.

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

Early in my creative journey, I wish I knew more about different entertainment organizations and importance of taking advantage of on campus resources. There are various entertainment organizations that align by profession, identity, and more. I am a member of the Alliance of Women Directors, HUSSLUP, and Women of Color United. Each of these organizations has brought me closer to other creatives and workshop opportunities that I might not have had without them. They have given me a sense of community and allowed me to meet some wonder creatives. If available, take advantage of on campus resources. If there’s a networking night or job fair on campus, take the time to meet people especially from companies you are interested in. Try to stay in contact after meeting and continue building communication. That is something I wish I did more of.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is being able to share stories with people and getting their reception. Whether its sharing my script or reading someone else’s work, it is so much fun to be able to discuss and create together. I love being able to share ideas especially when it is time to bring them to life in production. Now do not get me wrong being on set can be tough for long hours, but there is so many cool parts to it. Even when I interned in sports entertainment with FOX Sports, I loved taking on storytelling from a different perspective by providing b-roll clips to enhance the scripts for teasers. Being able to see people gravitate to your work is one of the best feelings as a creative.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jayaarmstead.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaya-armstead-40251814b/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZnmsrWOeBuUfmKFNx3ilAg

Image Credits
Daniel Ebomwonyi, Soba Pictures Nethra Gururaj Cinematography