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

Tonja, appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Mastering the craft of filmmaking has proven to be both gratifying and demanding. Starting without any prior training or education, I leaped into producing a feature film. That was nine years back, and now, with nearly a dozen films under my belt, I’ve acquired a wealth of knowledge and experience in production, scheduling, writing, and the business aspects of filmmaking. Taking that leap of faith to pursue a dream has been incredibly fulfilling, especially when many people pass away holding onto unfulfilled dreams, held back by their fear of stepping out on faith.

Tonja, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My journey as an entrepreneur began in the year 2000 when I started selling shoes, marking the inception of “The Shoe Lady.” Since that pivotal moment, my career has evolved significantly—I have authored 10 books spanning genres from urban fiction to self-help and business. In 2015, I ventured into filmmaking with a movie adaptation of my first book, “Stay in Your Place,” and have since contributed to the production and writing of 12 films. The thought of directing initially intimidated me, but I conquered that fear by co-directing “The Landlord” in January and “Ten Toes Down” in February. As I transition my focus entirely to filmmaking, I’ve decided to retire from the shoe retail industry. Reflecting on my journey, I feel immense gratitude for the wonderful people I’ve met and the opportunities that emerged from my shoe business.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Supporting local filmmakers is crucial for the growth and diversity of the film industry, offering unique stories and perspectives that might otherwise go unnoticed. Two main ways to support is by attending local film premieres or festivals and by spreading the word about a local filmmaker and their project. Word-of-mouth promotion is incredibly powerful.

Also, if a person owns a local business, allow a filmmaker to film in your location and cross promote.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the ability to express and share my perspective with others, evoking emotions and sparking conversations about my films or the characters.

Another rewarding aspect is witnessing the cycle of completion. To birth an idea, type it out, hire cast and crew, film the movie, edit it and watch your “baby” is so rewarding.

It’s fulfilling to see my work resonate with people, inspire them, or even challenge their views or my own. I received some negative feedback for my film “God Forgives, I Don’t” however I had dozens of women and men who thanked me saying the film encouraged them to address personal trauma which had been swept under the rug. The fact that these viewers from across the nation sought me out to express their feelings, meant the world to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.theshoeladyproductions.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/theshoeladyproductions
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theshoeladydetroit