Daniele Lawson is a young actress we came to know thanks to her role as Isha Price in King Richard, the Best Motion Picture of the Year Academy Awards nominee film. However, what we like the most about this artist is that she is woke a never misses an opportunity to offer help and stand up for equality.
In this conversation we had exclusively for Vanity Teen, she spoke about her life, career, activism, and upcoming projects. So, do not miss out on this heartfelt interview and find out why Daniele Lawson affirms the sky truly is the limit.
The sky truly is the limit
VT: The world of acting can be hard for kids, and you started at a very young age. So, who has been there to help you pursue your dreams?
DL: My parents have been my biggest supporters ever since I started at a young age; they have helped me navigate my career in the entertainment industry.
My parents have helped me with auditions and are part of my team. I also have the support of my friends and family.
VT: How was your reaction when you found out you would be portraying “Isha Price” in King Richard alongside the incomparable Will Smith?
DL: I was overjoyed and filled with excitement when I found out that I would be part of the King Richard film working alongside Will Smith. I’ve looked up to him my whole life, and to be able to work with him on the King Richard film, is a dream come true.
VT: King Richard not only has been a worldwide success, but its message has been inspiring millions. How did the movie inspire you as well?
DL: The movie inspired me so much and to learn about the story of Venus and Serena’s upbringing was the most inspiring.
The film showcased determination and dedication and made me believe the sky truly is the limit.
Getting to know how everyone in the family played such a vital role in their lives made me reflect on my life and see how blessed I am to have my support system. Lastly, Venus and Serena beat the odds and all the adversity that came their way.
Stories like these inspire me
VT: Since true stories like that one from the Williams family or even the Smiths have been inspirational, what do you think about the current plural representation in media?
DL: I believe that we have come a long way with representation. I am so blessed to know stories like this of the Family Williams. I believe there are other true inspirational stories out there that should be told. One story that was so captivating is the Colin Kaepernick documentary White and Black. I watched the series in just two nights, and I could not stop talking about it.
Stories like these inspire me and others, especially because they highlight the success but show the trajectory and fight that people go through. Especially being African American in today’s society.
VT: Out of Tune is one of your upcoming projects. What can you share with us about it?
DL: Out of Tune is a fun short film about a girl named Maya finding her voice and place in life. It’s also about being a black girl and the transition from adolescence to adulthood.
I had a great time working and being part of this project.
VT: What are your plans for the future?
DL: I love working in the film industry, and my plan is to continue pursuing this career as a full-time actress.
In the future, I hope to do lots of films and TV shows, but my biggest dream is to land a lead role for a show or a movie. I’ve been accepted into a film program starting next year; however, I still hope to continue landing roles while I study. At some time in my career, I would like to direct and write some of my scripts.
Become the change that we want to see
VT: How do you take care of yourself?
DL: The most important part of my self-care routine is making sure I get plenty of sleep.
I also try my best to always leave time in my schedule for the things I love, the ones that make me happy. Staying healthy is important to me, so I run almost every day and try to get lots of sun.
VT: You are involved with fundraising events and charity. How did this become part of your life?
DL: Helping the less fortunate became a passion of mine in my early childhood, and being able to do so has been extremely important to me since then. I always struggled with the fact that I can’t help every single person who needs it. But I still strive to do it to the best of my ability.
Because I love working with charity organizations focused on children, I collaborated with St. Jude, Kids in the Spotlight, and Angel Tree Ministry. Being of service to others makes me happy, and I want to get more involved.
VT: Which message would you like to share with those who have felt underrepresented or underappreciated?
DL: The lack of representation in the media is a serious ongoing issue that can feel very discouraging for a lot of people; however, we should still try our best to become the change that we want to see in the world.
People have more power than they realize, and it is our duty to shape the world that we want. That is why I find the work of filmmakers so important. They are in charge of displaying the world and writing the narratives, and the more people we have telling their stories, the more representation we will get for all people.
VT: Anything else you would like to share with Vanity Teen?
DL: I would like to share my gratitude to Vanity Fair for having me and making this a fun experience for me. Thank you so much!
Before we go
Daniele Lawson is one living proof that kindness and determination might go hand to hand we it comes to asking for your rights, promoting plural representation, equal opportunities for everyone, and helping others.
She has been working hard on her goals, and her formal education in acting continues; therefore, we cannot wait to see what the future holds for her, but as we wait for it, I invite you to find her and catch up on what she’s been up to on Instagram: @danieledeniselawson and on Twitter: @daniele_lawson.
Finally, let us emulate Daniele Lawson’s values, keep focusing on our goals, work hard, help others in need, and be aware of the change we can be in the world.
Love and peace.
