Cecelia Monica-Lyn

Actress

Niagara Falls, NY

What is your dream job? 

My dream job is a collection of many jobs in one. I would like to become financially stable from creating art that will teach, inspire, and be of service to others. Using my platform to shed light on issues and to become the voice for the voiceless. (I know this was a very pageant queen answer).

What is the last thing you learned?

That I need to become my own boss.

If you could talk to your favorite creative for an hour, who would it be? Why?

Debbie Allen!! She is a true artist through and through. Her versatility is amazing. She is still working till this day. I would love to just learn and absorb all her knowledge about being a performer in the industry.

What are you working on right now?

I am currently in rehearsals for the production of Glimmerings of Hope. This musical is about a boy name Kibomi, who is put on a journey to find his purpose in a life that is filled with much turmoil. We will be performing this piece in Flint, Michigan as part of an artist workshop.

What inspires you? 

Color, patterns, glitter, and layers. Being around other creative people also inspires me to become a better artist and person.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Keep dreaming, work hard and believe in yourself. Don’t let the world minimize your dreams. Just remember Psalm 23.

What industry blogs/websites/podcasts do you enjoy? 

Off Book, www.BroadwayBlack.com, Call and Response , and Jesus &Jollof.

What do you think the future holds for people of color in creative industries?

 I think we are about to experience another black renaissance. More doors are being opened, more glass ceilings are being smashed and if that’s not happening we are building our own houses. Our stories, our art, and our lives matter.

How do you keep your creative drip going? 

By creating, period.