hile sitting in front of the television set with family watching a commercial, I recall

saying to my mother, “I want to be on T.V.” Soon after, she enrolled my siblings and me in an acting workshop. We did charitable shows in the community performing “skits” that included acting, singing, and dancing. I took an interest in modeling, and specifically recall a modeling competition at Hollywood Bowl where the judges were indecisive about which contestant to select. My mother

and cousin Kay encourage me to wink at the judges… I did, and was chosen to model in the final competition!

Throughout school I participated in drama and dance programs, and modeled in community fashion shows. Local pageants included: Miss Southern California, Miss United World, and Miss Carson pageant among others, where I won, or placed as a runner-up, or a finalist—and I took the title as “Miss Grand Talent” and traveled with the court to Acapulco, Mexico.

Amid my career, I was blessed with a beautiful son and motherhood… After shaping up again and honing my craft, I resumed modeling endeavors and auditioned for John Casablanca’s Petite Modeling School. They liked my “style” and suggested that I attend their modeling school and upgrade my portfolio to better market me. Moreover, to enter their showcase where casting directors and modeling agents would attend to scout for ‘new faces and talent.’ For personal reasons I declined their offer, and, ironically, a few months later, they offered me a position to “teach” modeling. I have delved into the casting end of the business, as well, sending talent out to work

on the set of Boston Public, “Hollywood Homicide” starring Harrison Ford, BET Comic View…And, I sat on the panel to assist in casting for the community gospel stage play, “Choose You This Day,” after auditioning and being cast for the role of Marlene Funn. I continued to pursue modeling relentlessly, submitting photos and visiting local agencies only to be told that I was “too short.” Finally, I was accepted by an agency that was, unfortunately, against my better judgment—the agency took my money—I was left with a box of useless zed cards and no work! Subsequently, I met with and became a part of the Ann Dandrige Beauty Connection—Ann Dandrige, a relative of the late and legendary actress-singer Dorothy Dandrige, promoted us for modeling and swimwear competitions, musi videos, etc. Shows included Arsenio Hall, Soul Train Awards and the Lu Rawls Telethon to name a few. My other credits include “background” work in music videos with renowned artists such as Snoop & Dre, Miche’le, and Babyface. We took Paris by Storm where I modeled on the catwalk wearing the hand-beaded “body jewelry” of fashion designer and friend Kiba Gisele Gomez; we heated up the runway in Cote Ivoire, Africa and Libreville, Gabon. My most recent credits include being featured on Inside Edition surrounding the Michael Jackson Documentary, “Why Do Fools Fall in Love” (feature film), starring Larenz Tate and Academy Award winner Halle Berry, “Fete Noir” (student film), and my second gospel stage play entitled: “A Man That Finds A Wife Finds A Good Thing” starring Howard Hewett.

My son, now seventeen, has been in the business since infancy and has an impressive resume including commercials, film, theatre and print.

I believe the desire for stage, whether acting or modeling, will always burn within, however, parenting and a steady income took presidency over model pursuits. I am currently employed by the city of Los Angeles, and I freelance model, act, manage my son’s career and travel in my spare time.

The birth of Showbiz, A Practical Guide To Getting Started is attributable to my son’s blossoming career as an aspiring actor and model. Word got out, and friends and referrals wanted to know “how do I get my child started?” As a result, I decided to extend what I know about the business to YOU, in hope that every chapter will be a helpful tool-guide in making your journey to success a little less bumpy. I dedicate this manual to my mother who has been my friend and life support system… I want to say, “Thanks, and I love you” to my Creator God Almighty. And, (thank you) to my son Marquis, who has made this all possible. To my readers, may this book be your beginner’s bible in the entertainment industry. I would love to hear how this information is blessing you. E-mail your story or comments to: showbizguide@yahoo.com.