LIVE YOUR DREAM
AND BECOME THE SUCCESSFUL ACTOR YOU ARE MEANT TO BE
The Working Actors Academy is an online,
self-paced guided course.
You’ve literally googled everything. ‘Acting school’, ‘acting coaches’, ‘how to book an acting job’, ‘how to book a speaking role’, all the way down to ‘making it in Hollywood hacks’.
I get it, I searched high and low for the answers at the beginning of my career too.
And here is what I know for sure...you’ve been at this for a while. You’ve always had this BIG dream of acting deep down, but you’re scared of failure. You're afraid of not making it.
Real talk -- It's not just always about talent, it's about understanding the business.
You can have all the talent in the world, and your fear can still stifle you. The rejection can still get to you and make you want to give up.
It's like when I left Houston. In Houston, I was a big fish in a pond. When I came to Los Angeles, I was a tadpole in an ocean. How on Earth was I going to stand out and win this town over?
You can finish it in less than 30 days.
It depends on how much time
and effort you put into it.
Then there’s getting rejected for some other reason other than your acting skill.
You're too short. You're too tall. You're too light. You're too dark. Or you don't have a strong social media presence. You're not famous enough. How can you be famous before you’re freaking famous!?
I know, I know! I feel you so much on this one!
You are likely experiencing one or all of the following...
I will be giving you my 20+ years of experience, everything that I've
learned along the way as it relates to this entertainment industry.
You might be getting comfortable starting to make a living doing something else and it’s getting harder and harder to leave that living for the unknown, for uncertainty.
Or you go from a waiting tables job or promotional job or the job that is “flexible” so you can call out if you get an audition.
I know the drill! When I was first getting started, I was a telemarketer because it would allow me to leave if I had an audition. I had to have a job because a girl’s gotta eat AND let’s face it, Los Angeles is really, really expensive.
Forget meals and rent…
...then it's $25 to post pictures there.
$15 a month daily casting.
$22 a minute to put up a demo reel or a voiceover reel.
Headshots can take up to $300 to $700.
You've got to build a website, design the website, and website hosting, and on and on.
It's a rat race.
It feels like a never-ending story because your focus isn't on your dream, it’s on making ends meet.
We're bridging the gap between
understanding what you need to
know to be a successful actor,
and the business side of that it takes.
I too kept asking, “How do I figure this out?” And it felt like nobody knew the way.
You’re at that point in your career where you have your headshots, you have your resume, you may have a reel, you have all these different things, and then you're like, okay...
How do I crack this level to get to the next level?
I know you've gone to acting classes.
I know that you've tried to get in touch with casting agents.
You feel like the moment you get an agent (Don’t worry I 100% felt this way too)...
OMG, you're on your way! You're going to make it. You've arrived!!!
I know you've done everything under the sun!
It seems like, oh, if I just take one more acting class, then I’ll get my break...
But it hasn't worked.
I know everything you've tried. Not only because I know what's out there, but because I've done it ALL myself and I didn't succeed until I did what I teach you in The Working Actors Academy. More on that in a moment.
Look, you stumbled upon this page, you've literally been dreaming about becoming an actor since you were a little kid, and you just don't know how to make the dream real.
And so here we are. It's no accident that you landed here.
DO NOT GIVE UP YOUR DREAM OF ACTING
I am here to tell you... with the right moves...
Your booking ratio goes way up!
See yourself on set and sitting in that director's chair, the one that has your name on it.
You're sitting there like you're supposed to be there. Because YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO BE THERE.
You show up to set and everyone is excited to greet you and meet you and they take you to your trailer.
They bring you to hair and makeup and everything is done for you. It's kind of crazy!!
The minute they see you getting on set, the crew is taking care of you.
All the hard work that you've put into this dream, you see it paying off.
The working actors that you've admired watching on television... now... whoa! You're in the same scene with this actor!
That’s what it was for me! I had to tell myself, “Oh snap, Taja you got to keep it together! You’re working right next to so-n-so!”
Like this... I grew up watching Raven-Symoné on The Cosby Show. Flashforward, I am in a scene with her! We're sitting right next to each other. She's throwing stuff out at me and I'm catching it and throwing it back and she says to me, "You're so good." I'm like, "Thanks." But on the inside, I am like...
"Wow! Pinch me is this really happening!?"
THIS CAN BE YOU.
You prepared for this. You're ready for this.
So in this moment, feel that star power.
Feel how great you are.
Feel the magic of movie-making.
You deserve it. You've earned it. You've labored for it. You've prayed for it. You've studied for it, and here you are. So now, you've got to trust yourself and believe and know that you're supposed to be here.
Feel the possibility of what it feels like to be a working actor, fulfilling your life’s dream. That energy that comes with this concrete vision is everything! You feel in your bones...it was all worth it.
That's it right there. It all becomes worth it.
Keep in mind this is a show business
emphasis on the business,
so as much as you want to focus on the show,
you need to focus and learn all the
intricate details as it relates to the
business side of things and that's
where TWAA Comes in.
With what I teach you in The Working Actors Academy you will go in or send in your self tape and “book the room.”
You’ll walk out of an audition feeling great. You’ll feel like... okay, they loved me, I did exactly what I was supposed to do.
You will create your self tape and know it's a total winner and feel 100% confidence when you press send!
Once you learn the strategies you will have a sense of relief. Like, okay, I'm on the right path. You will have that reassurance. You will know the audition was good, that the take was good!
You will have more confidence. This will give you confidence in your craft, in your ability, and what you can do.
After going through the process I teach and booking many speaking roles, I felt proud. I knew I was on the right track.
We get so much rejection in this business. Sometimes you need the reassurance of, YES, I can do this. I've got this. I'm worthy of this.
YOU ARE WORTHY OF THIS.
When you are in The Working Actors Academy, no matter what the BIZ throws at you, you don’t lose your sense of value. As an actor, it can be very easy to lose yourself and your sense of value. I did, for sure. Because you just get so much rejection, and then you think you’re not the choice, you don't have the right look, you're not the right type, you're not the right something.
There are so many different things that make you feel like something is wrong with you. But what you have to understand is, nothing is wrong with you... you just don’t know the right steps to take to get you where you want to go!
And now that I have found the way... let me tell you... If you don't have the tools from the business side of it, it doesn't matter.
The Working Actors Academy is going to give you the tools that no one else is talking to you about.
No one else is giving you the information that I'm giving you to set you up for success.
Now, you still need to put the work in. This isn't a - watch the video, now you're a star - situation.
You still have to put the work in, but it needs to be the RIGHT WORK and the RIGHT EFFORT!!
You still have to be a valuable actor. This process I take you through will elevate your value, get you into the right work ethic, hold you to your consistency, and amplify your greatness time and time again.
The tools and the business tricks of the trade inside this course are priceless. It takes you from just starting to the big leagues. Taking off SO many years of having to learn this on your own.
There are NO schools that are going to tell you the things I am teaching you in this program.
All the schools focus on your craft. Don’t get me wrong, your craft is very important. But if you are not a great auditioner, you will never be able to use that craft that you train for.
The Working Actors Academy gives you all the business tactics of the industry so that you can put yourself in front of the right people and consistently land roles.
Take it from me, the girl that wasn’t supposed to “make it”... Being a successful working actor isn’t just a dream – it’s your future.
You have the talent, and there’s room for YOU in this industry. You just need to learn the rest – the business, the industry expectations, and how to market yourself.
I didn’t create The Working Actors Academy to be just another “acting 101” course. I’ll save you the years of frustration figuring out what leads to success in our industry, by teaching you what I did to make it big.
This self-paced course guides you through the business aspects of being an actor and connects you with other working actors for support and networking.
The reason why most fail, is they don't put themselves in the room with people who have walked the path before them.
You can do this in a vacuum with yourself and your other non-working actor friends OR you can be in conversation and be learning from a legit working actor!
Most struggling actors don't know anyone that they can connect and ask specific questions. You may not know another actor that is successful, that's on television, and that can help you with accurate experience.
Let me be your mentor on this path.
From struggling actor to working actor
Your next big break is in your hands.
Learn the skills you need to succeed with The Working Actors Academy.
Why me as your mentor?
I grew up in a small town in Lake Charles, Louisiana. When I was growing up my cousins and I would watch movies and memorize the entire thing and act it all out. That was the birth of my love of acting.
I tucked it away for quite some time. I even tried to become an attorney... but that just killed my spirit.
I came to Los Angeles in 2003. I did the work (and did the things I teach in The Working Actors Academy), landed roles, and now I am a full-time actor for a living, and it makes me the happiest!
I’ve always been a coach, too. About twenty years ago I oversaw the theatre department of the church I attended and I started coaching actors.
I fell in love with it. Actors would come to me and ask, "Hey, can you coach me through this audition?" I'd coach them. And they would land the gig. In our ministry, people had to audition for every production, so that gave me experience on the casting director side of things as well..
I am now a 4-time award-winning working actor and a best actress academy award-winning film festival nominee.
My first big breakout role was in The Bold & The Beautiful. Since then some of the shows I have appeared in are; HBO's Insecure, Grey's Anatomy, NCIS, NCIS:LA, KC Undercover, Lethal Weapon, and All American.
I am widely known for my role as the fun and sassy wife opposite legendary Actor and Director Tyler Perry; in Lionsgate's "Tyler Perry's Boo2! A Madea Halloween," and can be seen as Priscilla Owen in BET's newest #1 drama, Tyler Perry's "The Oval."
I am also a film director with over 40 plus productions under my belt from stage plays to music videos and short films. Next up is directing television and my first feature.
I am in films all across Netflix, Amazon, and Apple.
I am also an author of several books including, "Cracking The Acting Code: A Practical Step By Step Guide To Becoming A Professional Actor", and “Women Who Shine.”
In order to succeed in the entertainment industry it’s important to be multi-talented both on and off-screen. I am an Actor, Author, Director, and Keynote Speaker.
And now I am your mentor, too.
A course for working actors, made by a working actor
What if you moved past your fear, and truly believed in your ability to become a working actor?
Imagine what life would look like if you devoted your time and energy to developing your acting career, and owned up to your success...
The first time you land your dream role you scream into the phone in excitement, knowing you’re finally seeing results.
It took me years to learn what I teach in The Working Actors Academy.
So why do I do it?
Because I want you to book the frickin job and live your dream!
The world deserves your talent, and you deserve to make a living doing what you love.
And that’s why I created The Working Actors Academy.
The power to succeed comes from within
You ARE worthy. Own it.
Here are YOUR program details:
I did the hard work of cutting out all the fluff, and only include what you need in order to succeed as a working actor.
Because you don’t have the time or the money to take yet another acting course.
The Working Actors Academy is so much more.
Here’s what you get:
Seven Pivotal Lessons to take you from struggling to a working actor:
YOUR INVESTMENT
PayPal credit. "Buy now. Pay over time."
When you sign up, get full access to everything RIGHT AWAY.
An investment for lasting success
I didn’t create The Working Actors Academy for the money.
I’m answering the call.
The call of struggling actors everywhere that struggle for years without guidance in an unforgiving industry.
Most of all, I remember what it was like to count pennies at the end of the month.
The Working Actors Academy is an investment in your future, but I’ve taken great care to price it so that you don’t have to choose between this investment and groceries.
What it’s worth:
Total worth: At LEAST $15,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this course good for people in the UK or outside of the United States?
A: I say yes! It covers so much more than just how to work in the United States. What I teach about sharpening both your craft and business skills in this industry is not limited by geography.
Q: Do I have to go to acting college to be an actor?
A: Great question, and we actually cover this in TWAA. The bottom line is, you don’t. That doesn’t mean you don’t need to train. You most certainly still do. However, there are plenty of actors who didn’t go to an ‘acting college’ and reached various levels of success. For instance, Charlize Theron wanted to be a ballet dancer, and got a movie role when she was noticed arguing with a bank teller. Joaquin Phoenix ended up in Tinseltown after performing on the street to support his family. And many more A-list actors like them became an important part of Hollywood because of their natural talent. Here are a few more: Tom Cruise, Jim Carrey, Johnny Depp, Jennifer Lawrence, Natalie Portman and Meg Ryan..
Q: I wanted to become an actor; I just don’t know where to start
A: TWAA is the perfect place to start! This isn’t just for the actor that may seem to have it all, it’s for you too, the newbie. If you’re willing to put the work in, we know by joining, you will cut off years of your journey to reach your goals. We are giving you the simple tools you need to reach the level of success you desire. Areas of focus are Personal Development, Perfecting the Craft Of Acting and Business Essentials.
Q: What are the opportunities involved in this group?
A: There are so many opportunities for TWAA, simply scroll through the website and you’ll see all the offerings. I would like to point out the bi-monthly Live sessions with me and the Private Facebook group. Those are so essential! Being in this business, it’s rare that you have someone who has achieved the level of success that I have and still have time to help others. Only 2% of actors make a living at this and I’m here to be your mentor and help you become a part of the elite few.
Q: I graduated with a diploma in screen & media. How can this help me?
A: TWAA will help you navigate the business side of this industry as it relates to ACTING. A diploma in screen & media equips you with the skills you need to pursue a wide range of roles such as TV production, radio broadcasts, podcasts, digital animation, sound or game design. The Working ACTORS Academy is primarily focused on just that one area of expertise. Remember, this is SHOW BUSINESS. Having the skill set in screen & media is wonderful so you have a broad understanding of productions but will it help you navigate the business in getting an ACTING job? Talent is the prerequisite but it’s not always all you need to book work.
Q: I am under the age of 18. Can I get an agent without getting my parents involved since my parents are always busy?
A: I love your passion!! =) TWAA is for anyone ages 12 and above. (Younger if parents will help). However, you will need your parents to make the payment(s) to cover the enrollment. You will also need a parent to present to sign with an agent.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Simply click right here to review your options in joining this wonderful acting community of working actors!
Q: I would like to know what are the requirements for me to be part of The Working Actors Academy?
And since my biggest goal is to move to the USA then work as an actor there, how will the TWAA impact this goal of mine?
A: The requirements are simple: Be willing to put the work in. I believe the better human you are, the better actor you will be. TWAA will get you started with what you will need to be successful.
Q: I have a Production in which I am the Writer, Producer, Director, CEO of a Short Film. But this is not what I dreamed nor prayed for.
I am seeking a mentor to guide or help me. Will your course help guide me in the way to go?
A: No, this course is for actors or anyone desiring to pursue that profession.
Q: Does it matter if you're still in school and not located in the USA?
A: You can live anywhere and still have success with TWAA. If you’re in school, sure you can still join. You’ll just have to make sure you’re doing your schoolwork and the work TWAA requires. Don’t take on more than you can bare, it’s completely up to you. =)
Q: How many weeks and how long is it open for?
A: Here’s the good thing about TWAA, not only can you do it from anywhere, you can also go at your own pace. This is a self-guided platform. You can go as fast or as slow as you like. TWAA is also open enrollment.
Q: There isn’t enough work out there for actors, so why will this course help me get more work?
A: Let’s bust that myth right now. There has NEVER been a time with more professional and creative content being created than right now. Streaming is HUGE, and it’s allowed for thousands of new roles to be created every day. There IS enough work, and there is room for everyone in this industry.
Q: How will my life change after The Working Actors Academy?
A: You will have a detailed game plan for how to get in front of the right people in order to book jobs. You will have the confidence to know that you are following the right path, and you are meant to be a successful working actor. You will see your acting career blossom and turn into your dream career.
Q: Why are you qualified to teach me these things?
A: Because I’ve been where you are. But more importantly, I took the journey from struggling actor to successful working actor. I didn’t take shortcuts, and I didn’t get lucky. It took hard work, tears, and a lot of figuring things out for myself. Since then, I’ve helped countless actors achieve their journey to success with a lot less time, frustration, and tears than it took me.
Q: I’ve already spent thousands of dollars on acting coaches. What difference will The Working Actors Academy make?
A: This course is not another acting course, and I’m not a typical acting coach. Honing your craft is important, but talent isn’t enough. This is the course that will teach you how to showcase your talent to the right people, so you book roles consistently.
Let my years of experience become yours in a very short amount of time
You don’t have to go at it alone
It can be scary to take action.
After all, that’s why you’re here, right?
Because what you're doing now isn’t working.
You’re not landing those roles, you’re not seeing your dream come true.
But there comes a time when you have to come to terms with the fact that the only one who can determine your success is YOU.
And that means it’s time to take action.
It’s time to leave fear behind.
Join me in The Working Actors Academy, and start your road to success today.
What it’s worth:
Total worth: At LEAST $15,000
YOUR INVESTMENT
PayPal credit. "Buy now. Pay over time."
When you sign up, get full access to everything RIGHT AWAY.
SERVICES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:
Acting Training
Entertainment Industry Business Training
Methods to Win Over a Casting Director Training
How to Get an Agent Training
How to Get a Manager Training
Preparing for an Audition Training
How to Book a TV Series Role
How to Book a Movie