Bella Maori, a Multi-Award-Winning and Exceptionally Talented Filmmaker, is Revolutionizing The Entertainment Industry With Her Groundbreaking New Film Series, Ugly. 

Bella Maori, a native of Southern California, grew up in Los Angeles and discovered her passion for writing at a young age. She began her writing journey at eight years old. Alongside her writing career, she also explored modeling and made her debut in the independent film industry with "The Internship Games" in 2015. Fast forward to 2021, Bella was featured as the lead model on the album cover trailer for Grammy-nominated Hip Hop rap star Baby Keem's debut album, "The Melodic Blue." In addition to her acting and modeling pursuits, Bella has also ventured into writing and producing various independent projects. 

Currently, Bella is fully immersed in her latest project, a pilot called "Ugly," which she wrote, produced, and directed. This pilot explores the profound impact of colorism on the black identity of an African American actress. The pilot episode of "Ugly" received critical acclaim and garnered nominations in multiple categories at the LA Independent Women Film Awards, including Best Web and New Media, Best Web Series/TV Pilot, Television-Pilot Program, and Best Series-Web-Pilot. Furthermore, in 2021, "Ugly" achieved success by winning the prestigious Best Pilot-Series award at the LA Independent Film Channel Festival. Bella Māori's talent and dedication continue to shine through her remarkable achievements in the entertainment industry. I had the opportunity to speak with Bella about her journey in film. Here's what she shared. 

Hi Bella, how are you today? I'm good. Thank you.  

That's impressive! So, you are a fiction writer, novelist, model, and actress. On top of that, you are currently pursuing a PhD in philosophy and interdisciplinary studies, with a focus on women's studies and the clinical aspect of black women's identity in media, film, television, and professional work environments. You are also an advocate for social justice, particularly for women's rights, animal rights, homeless people's rights, and racial injustice. You are active in leading marginalized groups and have been accepted to present your essay "Empowering Black Women's Identity in Private and Public Sectors of Professional America" at the 2022 National Student Leadership Diversity Convention. Miss Bella Maori,  thank you for speaking with me today and for your time. Thank you, it's an honor to be here. I want to acknowledge your inspiring presence and positive impact on my life. Congratulations on your success with the magazine. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to speak with you today. 

Thank you for your kind words. They mean a lot to me. Today, Bella, it's all about you. Let's get started. Okay. 

First and foremost, where were you born, and where do you currently reside? I was born in Harbor City, which is within Los Angeles County in California. Currently, I still reside in California. 

Awesome. Bella, assuming you could choose your birthplace before being born, where in the world would you pick? That's a great question. I often feel displaced and wonder if being born in Africa would help fill that void. It would be great to experience a place where I'm not discriminated against because of my race. It would be wonderful to see people who look like me succeeding in business and other areas without having to deal with the racism that's prevalent in the United States. There may still be classism, but I could deal with that. I want to feel grounded in a community that accepts me. So, I would choose Ghana. 

I understand that Africa is a beautiful place. Thank you for sharing that with me. Bella, I learned that you are not only talented but also fluent in a language other than English. Can you tell me more about the different languages you speak and what motivated you to learn them? I've learned Mandarin, Chinese, and French. I just wanted to see if I could do it. My father served in the military and spoke numerous languages, including German, Russian, and Spanish. I remember when he took us out to dinner; if the waitress were from an exotic place, he would speak to her in her language. I always thought that was cool, even as a child.  

I wanted to challenge myself because I'm always looking for ways to push my limits. So, I decided to do it. And it turned out to be much easier than I expected. It was kind of fun to challenge myself in unconventional ways. I don't know if I inherited this trait from him or someone else, but it definitely gave me a sense of accomplishment. I particularly found it useful when I visited France in 2015. I loved the experience and embraced the culture wholeheartedly. 

It would be fantastic if children were introduced to a second language at a young age, beginning in kindergarten. Delaying language learning until high school or college, when one is older and burdened with more responsibilities, makes it more challenging to grasp. Acquiring another language is particularly crucial in our culturally diverse society. Depending on the area, it might be beneficial to incorporate Spanish or Asian languages into a child's education alongside English. I agree; that's an interesting point you made about language acquisition. Studies have shown that it is easier for children to learn languages because their brains are more receptive to them. As we grow older, it becomes more challenging to learn a new language due to changes in our brains. So, it's important to start learning a new language at a young age. When you start young, you have a better chance of acquiring the language successfully. 

Serena Williams recently had a baby, and she's teaching children different languages, which is so cute and wise. It's incredible how empowering and inspirational she is as a strong black female athlete. Also, I admire her perseverance in the face of racism during her time in Palm Springs and at tournaments. 

I completely agree. Thank you so much for that. It's absolutely wonderful to have you here, and I truly value your presence. So, Bella, I heard through the grapevine that you have a deep love for animals and an exceptional dog. Could you please tell me more about your furry friend and what makes him so extraordinary to you? Yes, I do. I've been saving animals for many years and helping them find new homes. Some I decided to keep, while others I let go. My beloved furry companion is named Banana, a Chihuahua I rescued in 2017. He's a tiny little guy, and I genuinely believe he was a gift from above because of how sweet he is. Banana doesn't bark, and his heart is full of love. He's like a little angel. He's still thriving, although he's toothless now, which is just adorable. I also have a cat and a turtle that I've rescued. The turtle is almost a decade old, and my love for animals knows no bounds. 

Wow, Bella! That's absolutely amazing! What a wonderful gesture to show your love for God's magnificent creations. It truly reflects the immense kindness in your heart. Speaking of our affection for animals, I have a fun question for you. Is there a particular animal that captivates your attention with its unique appearance? I'm not referring to the typical pets that people usually have, but rather an animal that looks amusing or intrigues you in some extraordinary way. I'm genuinely curious to hear your answer! Sure. I believe it's quite cliché, but I find monkeys and apes incredibly intriguing because of their striking resemblance to humans. When you look at them, you can't help but notice their five-fingered hands and expressive eyes. They are undeniably adorable creatures. Personally, I've always been captivated by them. However, I wouldn't want to own one as a pet because I've heard they can be aggressive and might even bite your face off. Despite their small size, they possess remarkable strength. Nevertheless, their cuteness and the depth of their ancestry never fail to amaze me. So, yes, I would definitely choose apes and monkeys as my top choice. 

That's incredible! I enjoy visiting the zoo. It's amusing because whenever I'm there, I always make a beeline for the wildcats and the apes. It's quite funny because you can wander around the other areas and spot deer or wildebeest, but they all seem pretty similar. Poor things, nobody seems too interested in them. (laughs)  

But when it comes to the apes, I find myself maneuvering through the crowd just to catch a glimpse of them. They are absolutely hilarious! And the majestic big cats, they are so enormous and awe-inspiring. It's truly a sight to behold. Speaking of animals, let's switch gears and talk about food. Oops, my bad! I can't help but mention how much I adore Thai food here in the UK, as well as Indian cuisine. They are bursting with flavors and are also vegan-friendly, which is a huge plus for me. Now, I'm curious to know what some of your favorite foods are. Since you've traveled the world, I'm sure you have some unique and creative choices. My guilty pleasure is pizza, but unfortunately, I can no longer enjoy it because of my dairy restrictions. Therefore, I've been on the hunt for a dairy-free pizza recipe. On the bright side, I'm a big fan of sushi, which seems to be a healthier alternative. I absolutely adore the kick of wasabi and the delightful teas that accompany sushi. While I appreciate and respect diverse cultures and their cuisines, I must admit that Japanese food holds a special place in my heart as my favorite. 

Both Pizza and Sushi are delicious, but if it's pizza, it has to be vegan cheese, and I can't eat it 3 hours before bed, or I'll have acid reflux of the worst kind. If it's sushi, it has to be a cooked roll. I can't do raw and slimy. (Laughs)  

On another note, several years ago, I decided to be courageous and went on an Eat, Pray, Love trip to Canada. I wanted to walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which was something different for me. I went by myself, and I was so proud that I did it. I was cool until the kids started shaking it while I was on the bridge. Then I was like, oh no! Let me get off this thing! (Laughs)  

Recently, I had to face another one of my fears when I held an African millipede in my hand while I was in the UK. Bugs have always made me feel uneasy, but for a brief moment, I decided to gather my strength and conquer my fear. The millipede was placed in my hand, and although I wanted to let go of it immediately, I resisted the urge because I knew there could be consequences if I did. It was a brave act on my part, and I'm proud to say I accomplished it. Have you ever experienced something similar? I'm curious to know about the most courageous thing you've done when you had to confront your own fears. Yeah, I jumped out of a plane. I went skydiving. I can't quite recall the exact year, but it was around 2014. It was definitely before the pandemic, that's for sure. Let's leave it at that. 

It was definitely before the pandemic, that's for sure. Let's leave it at that. But It was absolutely terrifying and probably the most frightening thing I've ever done. I was the first one to jump out, and I remember feeling so nervous that I thought I might wet my pants. There was no turning back; I had to go for it, and I did.  

And it happened that way because the free fall is absolutely terrifying. However, once you deploy the parachute, everything becomes calm and serene, and it's simply breathtaking. It's almost as if you're viewing the world from a bird's eye view. And let me tell you, it was the most incredible thing I've ever encountered. Will I do it again? No. I definitely would not do it again, but I'm grateful I had the opportunity to experience it. The experience was indescribable.  

That's fantastic, Bella! You know what? I can totally relate to that feeling because, believe it or not, I used to have dreams where I could fly too. It was such a surreal experience! I would jump from one mountain to another, feeling so free and weightless. Those dreams kept coming back, and in them, I could fly whenever I pleased. If I ever felt threatened, I would just lift off the ground and soar away to safety, always ending up on top of a peaceful mountain. So, in a way, I feel like I've experienced flying, but I wouldn't dare try it in real life. (Laughs) Anyway, hats off to you! As I said, you're a woman of many talents, and that's truly impressive. Since I'm a big fan of movies, let's talk about acting. When did you first realize you wanted to pursue acting? That's a fantastic question! Back when I was in the 7th grade, there was this play that I auditioned for. It was quite an experience because another girl was also vying for the lead role. She was incredibly talented, and we were both competing against each other. 

 Unfortunately, I didn't get the part and was cast as an elephant. It was pretty humiliating at the time, especially during the recital. I even asked the teacher if there was a chance I could take over the lead role, but it wasn't possible. However, looking back, that experience taught me a lot about humility and the realities of the industry.  

Fast forward to my college years, I was involved in a play called The V***** Monologues. It was fantastic to be up on stage, performing a monologue in front of everyone. I felt a surge of energy inside me as if I had come alive. It was then that I realized this was something I wanted to pursue. Despite lacking confidence initially, I gradually started testing the waters and exploring my potential. 

In either 2014 or 2015 (I can't quite recall), I had the opportunity to be part of an independent film where I played one of the main characters. It was an incredible experience, and it boosted my self-confidence. It made me even more determined to achieve more extraordinary things on a larger scale. The desire to pursue acting has always been within me, and I'm excited to see where this journey takes me. 

What aspects of acting captivate you the most, what factors do you enjoy, and what motivates you to continue pursuing it and say, 'I want to do more of this'? I have always been a private person. I tend to keep my personal life confidential and secure. It's almost as if I have a secret vault where I store all my personal information. Even my closest friends are unaware of many aspects of my personal life. This is just the way I am. 

Growing up in an unstable and emotionally abusive household has had a profound impact on me. However, I've discovered that when I transform into different characters, it becomes a cathartic experience. It's like stepping into another person's shoes and finding solace in that transformation. The beauty of it is that I can be anyone I want to be, free from the constraints of my own identity. Playing other characters feels liberating because it allows me to escape from myself temporarily. 

Interestingly, I struggle to watch myself on screen, feeling a sense of discomfort and self-criticism. Nonetheless, I believe that this process serves as a therapeutic outlet, helping me heal from past traumas. It allows me to release pent-up emotions and find a sense of redemption. Ultimately, it's a way for me to break free, become someone else for a short time, and discover a temporary refuge in the world of acting. 

Bella, I want to express my gratitude for sharing your inspiring journey with me. Despite the obstacles you've faced, you've managed to persevere and keep moving forward. Your willingness to share your experiences will undoubtedly inspire others who are going through their own struggles. I'm curious: when did you realize that being a professional actress was your true passion? It's fascinating how some people's stories can have unexpected twists and turns. For aspiring actors and filmmakers who are reading this, could you share a bit about the path you took to becoming a professional actress? If you have any advice for those trying to break into the industry, it would be incredibly valuable. Right. Finding a good agent is crucial to landing big auditions and taking your career to the next level. You also need a publicist to increase your visibility and get more roles. Personally, I don't have a manager as I feel like I can manage my own career, but a good agent is essential. Remember that persistence and having thick skin is important because you will face many rejections before getting that one “Yes.” 

Having a true passion and a love for it is essential, as it distinguishes those who become stars or celebrities. The path to success can be challenging, filled with numerous setbacks and periods of uncertainty. While many may consider giving up, it is those who persist and hold onto their dreams that ultimately succeed in this field. Success does not always equate to being a top-tier actor; it can manifest in various ways. Personally, I do not aim to reach that level of fame either.  

I really enjoy doing indie films and similar projects because of the connection it brings with other indie people. I appreciate the freedom that comes with it and the ability to go places without people prying into my personal life. Finding your own lane and knowing your motivation for pursuing it is important. You have to decide whether you are in it because you love it and would do it regardless of pay or recognition or if you are in it for fame. I personally don't see fame as a measure of talent or passion. It's crucial to be honest with yourself about your intentions in this industry, or you'll be in for a rude awakening. 

That is so true. You know, Bella, there was a time when the film and music industry were very different, and opportunities were limited, especially for independent artists. However, things have changed now, and even major actors are going independent, producing and creating their own films. People are building their own audiences and fan bases because they realize that with hard work and determination, they can achieve their dreams and succeed in their careers. 

The music industry often exploits independent artists by failing to pay them fairly. Regrettably, there is a lack of advocates willing to speak up for them. This issue extends beyond music and can be seen in other areas of entertainment like film. Being an independent artist is becoming increasingly popular, offering a sense of freedom as you take control of your career and pave your own path. However, it also comes with its own set of obstacles. The current approach to evaluating an individual's talent and significance in today's entertainment sector is severely flawed. Take my agent, for instance - they frequently send me alerts for auditions that require a specific number of followers to qualify. It's puzzling to me because I'm more of an introvert and prefer a smaller social circle. I don't prioritize social media, which is why I don't have a massive following. Yet, auditions are now being determined by your follower count.  

Unfortunately, having a huge following seems to be more important than actual talent nowadays. It's a shame that people who truly care about their craft are being overshadowed by those who are just popular for the sake of it. The entertainment industry should be about skill and passion, not just numbers. It's disheartening to see this shift happening, but maybe it's time for independent creators to pave their own way and stay true to their art. 

Ultimately, I firmly believe that everything unfolds according to God's purpose and plan. If opportunities are destined to come your way, they will. If certain individuals fail to notice you, it's because they are not meant to play a role in your life at this moment, or perhaps ever. Those who appreciate your genuine self and skills will invite you to join them. In the grand scheme of things, the audience knows what they like, and regardless of fame, if they enjoy your work, they will support you. Therefore, it's the industry's loss if they overlook you. This means that you can reap the rewards of your own talent. I agree with you, that's true. 

Oh, absolutely! Alright, let's dive into it. I'm curious to ask you something. What's next? We've discussed the challenges you face in the acting industry, including likes and dislikes. Now, I'd like to shift gears and talk about your role as a screenwriter. You're truly talented in this field, juggling writing, screenwriting, and cinematography. Your repertoire of movies and projects is truly impressive. Let's unpack it all. There's so much greatness to cover in this interview, and I'm trying to fit it all in. It's like condensing a full-length feature film into a short conversation. So, what inspired you to pursue a career in filmmaking? I think I just wanted to share my stories. I wanted to have control over the narrative of stories that depict the black perspective. For so long, people who don't look like us have been telling our stories, and as a result, there are numerous challenges that I, along with other black women, face. I'm singling out black women so that it won't be too broad.   

I've noticed in the media that black women are often portrayed in a negative light, and I find it disheartening. It seems that to be accepted in the industry, you have to play into stereotypes like being funny, hood, ratchet, or ghetto. I don't want to tell stories from that perspective. I want to tell stories from a black woman's point of view that doesn't rely on those stereotypes. I don't have a problem with stories that address the issues we face, but they should be told by someone who has experienced them firsthand.  

So, that's what made me want to create my own path. I was tired of waiting for people to give me permission to do something. I was tired of constantly seeking approval and acceptance. Instead, I decided to accept myself and create my own opportunities by making my own films. I couldn't keep waiting for others to give me the green light or hold me back. That's how it all started. 

I agree; it's very empowering for women to hear that they shouldn't wait around for others to take action. People have their own schedules and priorities, and if you wait for them, you may never achieve your dreams. I'm proud of you for taking the initiative to pursue your goals, and by doing so, you inspire others to do the same.   

Speaking of movies, have you heard of 'Ugly'? It's a pilot that focuses on how Hollywood's colorism oppresses black women's identity. The pilot has won seven awards, including Best Writer, Director, Cinematographer, and Web Series. First of all, congratulations, Bella. I would love to know more about the story behind the creation of your award-winning film, 'Ugly.' 

Early in my professional journey, I was in many music videos. However, upon arriving at the set, I often faced the unfortunate reality of being relegated to the background or denied access altogether. Instead, they would prioritize placing lighter-skinned black women or ethnically ambiguous girls at the forefront while treating individuals who resembled me poorly. 

So, when I realized that there's a troubling situation in Hollywood where individuals with brown skin face limitations and barriers to opportunities, I felt compelled to share my experience and connect with others who may have gone through similar struggles. Naming the script/pilot "Ugly" serves as a powerful representation of the pervasive issue of colorism and the mistreatment of black or darker-skinned girls in the industry. It's a stark reminder of the industry's indifference towards addressing this critical issue. 

The perception of being unappealing arises when a person is disregarded in this industry or is denied equal opportunities and fair treatment compared to other girls who possess a more exotic, mixed race, or lighter complexion. It is important to note that this is not their fault but rather a reflection of how the industry operates and the societal norms in place. The closer you are to having white features, the greater your chances and access to significant opportunities within this industry. So, I wanted to tell that story. 

In the initial episode, a scene depicted an audition for a music video, where a specific girl was chosen to be one of the leading models. However, upon arriving on set, she faced mistreatment and felt extremely low about herself. Consequently, she had to find a way to cope with this situation. The story revolves around her journey through Hollywood as a darker-skinned black girl and how she gradually embraces her own identity and learns to be confident in herself despite societal norms. 

Regardless of what others say or feel, it does not impact her identity. As the series progresses, her character will naturally evolve from the pilot episode to the point where she learns to love herself by the end. However, she will have to overcome various challenges along the way. I wanted to highlight this journey because I've received emails from people of different cultures, such as Indian or Hispanic, who face similar issues in their own cultures. It's not just a problem for black people but a global situation where being dark-skinned can lead to discrimination. My goal is to empower girls who are affected by colorism. 

Ashley A. Jones, an exceptional artist, curated an extraordinary exhibit called the brown paper bag test. I was captivated by her work and immediately approached her, requesting permission to utilize her art. Through this exhibit, she skillfully portrayed images of dark brown-skinned women on brown paper bags, shedding light on the historical practice of using a paper bag as a measure of acceptance into certain elite societies. This thought-provoking display aimed to challenge the discriminatory notion that individuals darker than a paper bag were denied access to opportunities and privileges. 

I wanted to bring up the topic of colorism and have a meaningful discussion about it. It's not just about light versus dark skin; there are serious issues at play. Dark-skinned girls face violence, as do light-skinned girls. It's important to delve deeper into this topic, and I believe storytelling is a powerful way to shed light on the complexities within our black community. 

You know Bella, as a filmmaker, it is an honor to be able to communicate with people through films and contribute to changing the narrative. Although you cannot change everything, you can reach some people and inspire them to do better. Now, I would love to hear about your other film projects - "The Disillusion of Pretty Butterflies," "The Misfit Effect," "Internship Games," and your mini-series "River." Please briefly tell me about each one of them. It's wild because those credits are from long ago, but what I discussed then is relevant now. For example, "The Disillusion of Pretty Butterflies" was about how social media makes people busy and creates this idea of perfection. I was raising that conversation way back then, and now we have people who are harming themselves because they compare their lives with others on social media.   

Another one was "The Internship Games," which was a comedy. It was directed by a black woman who was also the writer. It was a good experience to be part of that project. Lastly, "River" is similar to "The Disillusion of Pretty Butterflies." It was about an epidemic caused by a virus that would impact society, and one girl had to save humanity. It's crazy how relevant this is now with COVID, right? 

Right. How weird is that? Wow! Yes, and I was talking about this years ago.   

Wow! Right! It's absolutely mind-blowing! The story revolves around a courageous scientist who met a tragic end due to his role as a whistleblower. Before his demise, he left behind a video for his daughter, urging her to reveal the truth. In a twist of fate, she becomes the savior of humanity by obtaining the vaccine. It's astonishing to think that I wrote this narrative years ago, only to witness a similar event unfold in 2020. Moving on to "Misfit Effect" it's an intriguing podcast interview where they discussed my career and things of the sort. 

That is truly remarkable! Thank you so much for sharing that. Your film catalog is incredibly impressive and truly remarkable. Let's discuss another topic within the entertainment industry - ensuring financial stability while pursuing your creative passions. I firmly believe that even individuals with creative talents should have a backup plan. While not everyone may be academically inclined, learning a trade or skill can still lead to a successful career. Having something to fall back on is crucial, even as a creative. Congratulations on your academic achievements, including a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University of San Bernardino, a Master of Fine Arts degree from Full Sail University, and a Master of Teaching degree from the University of Southern California. I am genuinely impressed. Regarding advice for aspiring creatives in the entertainment industry, what would you suggest about the importance of having an educational background or backup plan while pursuing their creative passions? That's an excellent question! What's fascinating about it is that many creative individuals I've come across are truly driven by their passion for creating. It's like they have this innate need to express themselves, and nothing else quite satisfies them. It's almost as if their right brain, the creative side, takes over, and they can't help but immerse themselves in their craft. It's not common for people to pursue both a creative career and an academic one simultaneously, but those who do often face unique challenges. As for me, I'm personally driven by a desire to accomplish multiple things and push myself to the limit. Pursuing a PhD was one of those challenges, and now that I've proven to myself that I can do it, I find myself pondering what exactly I want to do with it. It's an exciting journey of self-discovery! 

I'm not entirely sure, to be honest. I don't know whether those two worlds are typically intertwined. I know there are individuals who aspire to be actors, writers, or even business owners, but they don't usually juggle school with 

pursuing a career in the entertainment industry.

Most people focus on one thing at a time, but for me, I can't do that. I have to engage in multiple activities simultaneously. I realize that's not the norm, and many people don't operate that way. It's a challenge because I find it difficult to stop myself from taking on new projects. That's just how my mind functions. While others may dedicate their entire lives to one pursuit, I still have a variety of interests and goals. I want to explore the world and make a positive impact on others, but where does that even fit in? (laughs) 

Yes, I completely understand. I don't feel qualified to recommend relaxation or solutions as I struggle with the same mindset. It's like being trapped in a cage. I empathize with you. I don't believe there is a definitive solution. Just embrace it and stay true to yourself. There is no way to escape the overachiever's complex inner workings and mindset. Unfortunately, this process tends to stick to creative individuals like crazy glue indefinitely. That's why I feel compelled to insert one of those disaster face emojis in this interview because I can relate to the feeling. (laughs) So, what's the latest? Are there any other projects in the pipeline or any new film concepts brewing in your creative mind that you'd like to discuss with our readers? Actually, I do. I have written articles, scholarly essays, scripts, and other types of content throughout my life and career. Despite this, I've never written a novel before. So, from my vast collection of short stories and ideas I have gathered over time on a whiteboard in my room, my goal is to compile all these stories into a book of short stories by the end of this year.   

Initially, I thought of creating just one story, but I wanted to include all the stories that I have written. My aim is to publish my first-ever novel and collection of short stories. That's what I'm working on now. 

Excellent! I'm confident you'll achieve that goal as well. Congrats, Bella. Which film depicting an untold story of a historical figure, do you believe should be brought to life? Furthermore, which role would you personally aspire to portray in this film? I have always admired Grace Jones and think her story deserves to be told. She was a supermodel and beautiful, but what stood out to me was that she was dark-skinned at a time when racism was rampant. She was unique and eccentric, and I feel connected to her because I am also not conventionally pretty. I would love to play her in a movie and show how she navigated the industry and became an icon in the modeling and acting world. Her story hasn't been told enough, and I want the younger generations to know about her and her impact on black history. So, I would love to portray Grace Jones and bring her life story to the big screen. 

Do you have any other film ideas, particularly a historical film that should be made?  I am interested in exploring a narrative centered around the Harlem Renaissance since the full extent of its impact has yet to be revealed. Our information is limited to what is taught in schools and what we repeatedly hear from the same sources. However, I believe the Harlem Renaissance marked a significant transformation in entertainment, black art, and black culture. It would make for a compelling story to be portrayed on film. 

Certainly, Bella, please share some words of encouragement for The Indie Post Magazine readers who are newcomers in the film and acting industry, trying to navigate their way through. I'm eager to hear your words of wisdom to inspire them, as this magazine aims to motivate young creatives in entertainment; what message do you have for them? I suggest having something to believe in that is greater than what is in this world. Have something that can give you grounding, like hope and faith, and something to hold onto that is more significant than yourself because you will need that in this world. My father was a Christian, and he gave us a foundation. No matter how far we stray from it, we always have something to return to. I think that's important because when you're on the brink and faced with a decision to jump off or not, you need God's love, which brings a spiritual connection to your life and heart. Without that, you will fall apart. And that's what has helped me. I've been through things and am still going through a journey in life, but I believe that the seed my dad planted in me about God and Jesus Christ and the love of God keeps me going and hopeful in this big pool of sharks. So, have something to believe in that's greater than yourself and the world, and you'll be okay. 

Thank you, Bella, for taking the time out of your busy schedule to speak with me today. My prayer for you is that the Lord bestows His blessings upon the endeavors you undertake, ensuring that they align with His divine plan for your life. May He safeguard you on all your journeys and travels. May He bring extraordinary individuals into your life who genuinely care for you and who you can trust, love, support, and find encouragement from along your path. Once again, I express my heartfelt gratitude, and I am genuinely proud of every achievement you have accomplished and every obstacle you have fearlessly overcome. As you grow personally and professionally, I look forward to watching your career flourish. Thank you very much. I'm truly honored. Thank you for inviting me. This is wonderful, and I really appreciate it.  

You're welcome. It is always my pleasure. 

End of Interview