We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Maya Koshaba. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Maya below.
Maya, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
Growing up in the barrio of an oil town in the heart of West Texas, I discovered my love for live performance despite living in an art-deprived community. As a young girl, I created small plays with my stuffed animals and danced along with movie characters in my room.
Living in a small town, I had limited resources. Yet, the artist in me was found through great movies, playwrights, and musicians, who guided and took me under their wings from a young age. The truthful moments experienced in my own life—challenges, triumphs, and lessons— oozed out of me through storytelling which developed into a passion.
With just my last few dollars, I packed one bag and bought a one-way ticket to New York City to fully embrace my calling. In New York, I immersed myself in my craft, studying with many of the best actors and teachers. This journey taught me to trust in the magic within myself.
How have you learned to trust that magic and remain present in the roles you take on?
One important lesson I’ve learned is to trust the ‘magic’ within myself and lean on my training. My experience with the Meisner technique, along with other methodologies, has taught me the importance of being present and fully in the moment—an essential skill for living truthfully under imaginary circumstances. This approach allows me to tackle each role with a fresh perspective, discovering the most effective way to use my vessel to bring each character to life.
The intangible connection between the actor, the character, and the audience is also a form of magic. I focus my energy on surrendering to the moment and letting go of preconceived notions, allowing the character’s truth to emerge naturally through me. This requires a deep sense of trust, not only in the process but in the choices I’ve made and in the synergy with my fellow actors.
Every role I take on becomes a unique journey, shaped by this versatility. This openness enables me to discover new dimensions within myself and the character, finding the most effective way to tell their story in a way that resonates with the souls of the audience.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
I would like to see more roles specifically written for multicultural actors that go beyond stereotypes and tokenism. Multicultural actors should have equal opportunities to audition for roles that align with their backgrounds and identities, regardless of traditional casting norms. Also, providing mentorship and training programs for emerging multicultural actors can help cultivate a diverse pipeline of talent we haven’t seen before.
Despite the challenges, I’ve seen progress and positive change. The industry is shifting towards greater inclusivity, and I’m hopeful for the future. More roles are being written for women and people of color, and there’s a growing appreciation for diverse stories. As an artist, I’m committed to contributing to this change by bringing forward inclusive and inspirational content that has the potential to resonate with a wide audience.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Outside of acting, I focus on living life – really living it. I am deeply passionate about mindfulness and meditation, which play a significant role in my daily life and creative process. I believe in the power of meditation to center the mind, cultivate inner peace, and enhance creativity. It allows me to maintain balance and clarity, especially during busy filming schedules.
I also love nature and being outdoors. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, exploring trails, or soaking in the beauty of natural landscapes, I find inspiration and rejuvenation in connecting with the natural world. Being outdoors nourishes my creativity and helps me stay grounded in my artistic pursuits.
In addition to meditation and nature, I am passionate about using my creative energy to contribute positively to the world around me. Whether through advocacy, storytelling, or personal growth, I strive to make a meaningful impact and inspire others through my actions and artistic endeavors. These passions shape who I am beyond the roles I play on screen, and they are integral to my journey as an actress and as a person committed to personal and collective well-being.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10207407/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayakoshaba/
Image Credits
Sergio Garcia