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

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

I starred in my first short film when I was 12. A year later, a friend of mine was cast in “The Mickey Mouse Club”. Her mother offered my mother the chance to link me with her agent, and my mother declined. I was upset at her for saying no for years, but the more I see of the abuse that the majority of child actors endured in the industry during that time, the more I’m grateful for her decision. It wasn’t just the film industry, either. As a singer and rapper in high school, I was approached by a number of people in the music industry looking to “recruit” me – including the now infamous R Kelly. Once my mother let him know she wasn’t open to my touring without her accompaniment, he passed on the deal. I needn’t go into the hindsight around that topic.

I’m now an advocate of trusting the timing of the Universe. I understand that the majority of things I felt rejected from, were actually protecting me – to this day. I’m grateful for the wealth of experiences my gifts and talents have brought me – from world travel, to meeting and being supported by people I never would have met otherwise. I’m sure the proper timing helped keep these experiences in alignment with what is best for me – even if it took a while to happen :)

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As a filmmaker, actor, writer, and educator, my work is rooted in a deep commitment to furthering artistry, fostering diversity, and promoting equity. Drawing from over 15 years of experience leading workshops and creating content that amplifies underrepresented voices, I view art as a powerful vehicle for storytelling, cultural reflection, and social change. My projects consistently aim to challenge stereotypes, create opportunities for historically underserved communities, and inspire meaningful conversations that foster understanding and growth.
Artistry is at the heart of everything I do, whether it’s producing, writing, or acting in films that challenge conventional narratives. My first feature project, Black Joy Always Wins, reflects this mission by celebrating Black resilience and joy in a society that often frames Black experiences through a lens of struggle. Similarly, my short films, Space is the Place and Daughters, explore themes of identity, family, and community through unique and underexplored perspectives. Space is the Place screened at Black Harvest Film Festival in 2024, and Daughters will be screened at Music Box Theater Chicago during the Black History Month “Melanin, Roots, and Culture” series. Daughters was also featured on WGN’s “Spotlight Chicago” segment and the front page of the Chicago Sun-Times on February 1st. These projects are not only creative expressions but also invitations to audiences to engage with nuanced, authentic stories.
Beyond my own work, I collaborate on indie projects that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling. These collaborations allow me to uplift diverse voices and ideas, enriching the artistic landscape with fresh perspectives. My goal is to ensure that every project I touch serves as a platform for innovative and inclusive storytelling.
Having worked as a military contractor in over 39 countries, I’ve witnessed firsthand the beauty of cultural diversity and the systemic inequities that often silence marginalized voices. My background as an actor on nationally recognized TV shows like The Chi and Chicago PD has further illuminated the urgent need for more diverse representation in the entertainment industry. In response, I founded a media company that prioritizes hiring BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women creatives in key roles, ensuring that our stories are shaped by those who live them.
My career has been dedicated to breaking down barriers in industries that historically exclude marginalized groups. From designing DE&I and anti-bias programming for universities, corporations, and even the U.S. House of Representatives, to facilitating discussions on microaggressions and sexual violence reduction, I’ve worked to create spaces where equity can flourish. These experiences inform my approach to filmmaking and mentorship, where I actively advocate for fair pay, equitable access, and professional growth opportunities for underrepresented talent.
At its core, my work is about creating art that uplifts. Whether it’s through workshops that build soft skills and leadership in underrepresented groups, or through films that shine a light on untold stories, I strive to leave a lasting impact. My content dedicated to social justice is designed not only to entertain but to provoke dialogue that leads to change. By combining my passion for artistry with a commitment to equity, I hope to inspire others to see themselves as powerful agents of transformation.
As I continue to grow as an artist and leader, my goal is to expand the reach and impact of my work. I dream of a future where storytelling is a true reflection of our collective humanity and where every voice has the opportunity to be heard. By prioritizing artistry, diversity, and equity in all aspects of my career, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive, just, and creative world.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

In 2019, I was in rehearsals, for a production of “For Colored Girls Who Considered Suicide When the Rainbow Wasn’t Enuf” in Kansas City, MO. I’d booked two anti-bias trainings that I created in Iowa and Nebraska. My director let me go do the workshops, but I needed to be back in rehearsals the next day.

Unfortunately, there were no flights that got me from the Bovine college where I was doing the last workshop in NE to get me back in time. So, after discussing micro aggressions with 18 year-olds holding shotguns, that I’m pretty sure had never seen a Black person in real life before, I drove overnight the 7 hours from NE to MO – fueled by gas station energy drinks and fear…and was in rehearsals at 10am sharp. Sleepy, but ready.

I’m very proud of things I’ve done and been through, but these days, I celebrate when I advocate for my rest.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Society can best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem by investing in accessible funding, providing affordable spaces for artists to work and showcase their talents, and prioritizing equity in the arts. Financial support through grants, fellowships, and guaranteed income programs can provide stability, while tax incentives and subsidies help sustain creative businesses. Ensuring fair pay, labor protections, and inclusivity—especially for marginalized groups—can break down barriers to artistic careers. Public engagement in arts education, a shift toward paying for creative work, and government-sponsored programming can further normalize the value of art. By fostering a culture of appreciation, investment, and accessibility, society can create an environment where artists can thrive and make meaningful contributions.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://actorsharyonculberson.com/
• Instagram: @Sharyon_Anita
• Facebook: Sharyon Anita
• Linkedin: Sharyon Anita
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpyONwlbnK2n7N-5itKSuyQ