We recently had the wonderful opportunity to chat with model Jayla Renee Franklin. During the interview Jayla talked about getting her start in the entertainment industry, filming a TARGET commercial, modeling, Melanin Angels, and more!
1. How did you get your start in the entertainment industry?
My mom has been active in the entertainment industry and we figured why not have me try to do some modeling and acting. Then a friend of my dad introduced us to his former manager, Ms. Carla with Alexander’s Talent Management. I met with her when I was about 5 years old and she signed me right away. I have been going to acting class ever since. She got me signed with LA MODELS for my print and commercial work and Sovereign Talent Group for my theatrical work.
2. What was your first project?
My very first project was a role for an independent movie “Ira” it was a pretty amazing experience to be on set and see how everything works. After that I did my very first national TARGET commercial.
3. What advertisements have you been featured in?
I have done advertisements for TARGET, UNIQLO, ZAPPOS PUMA and most recently I worked on a FOREVER 21 campaign.
4. What is your favorite part about modeling?
It’s so much fun to try on different clothes and I love taking pictures. Its especially fun when we shoot on location with other kids because it really feels like playtime with your friends.
5. Do you have any modeling inspirations?
Well, I love musically and Hollywood stars like Zendaya… I aspire to be like her. I love modeling but would love to work more in other parts of the entertainment industry. I guess the reason modeling came easy to me because of my height. Just like Zendaya I am pretty tall and they love tall models.
6. How did you get your start in gymnastics?
I started with artistic gymnastics, but after a few months and looking at the other girls that were much more muscular and bulkier then me my mom suggested that we try out Rhythmic Gymnastics. Since I have done ballet before I was open to trying Rhythmic Gymnastics. Its such a beautiful sport, very hard work and dedication but perfect for my body type. It keeps me active, fit and teaches me discipline.
7. What are your favorite moves or routines?
My favorite routine is my floor routine.This year we have fast latin music and I just love it. My favorite moves are the penche turn and split ring ( you might have to google those to see what they look like, Rhythmic Gymnastics terms. LOL) but they are my favorite one’s to perform!
8. How do you like to use your platform for change? Can you tell us about Melanin Angel?
Melanin Angel is really about young girls loving themselves regardless of how their ethnic background. I find it so important to spread love and positivity to young girls. It really started with my social media and my mom helps with it a whole lot. But as it grows bigger I would love to connect girls from all backgrounds, races, neighborhoods and from all around the world.. I am an only-child but I have a lot of friends from all different backgrounds. Being a mixed kid myself, half German and half African American it is important to me to teach people LOVE and to love yourself no matter what color and race your are. Too many young girls especially hate themselves because they get bullied in school. Or think they are ugly because of their skin color.
We created MELANIN ANGEL to show support and love to young girls. We all have MELANIN in our skin, some have more then others, but we ALL HAVE it. So that means we are all connected and we are all important and lovable!!!!!!!!!!!!!
9. Do you have any other upcoming projects?
I have been going to a lot of auditions and call backs… I keep up with my acting class and I’m focusing on continuing to work on my craft. Next up is for us to fully launch MELANIN ANGEL and work on designs to release.
10. What are your social media accounts?
www.youtube.com/channel/UC15rycZgDh_6cDHEmDsPtHQ
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm6564592/?ref_=nm_mv
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