We’re thrilled to introduce something new and exciting at Leading Ladies Africa, and what better day to launch it than on the International Day of the Girl Child? 🌍
Introducing Lead Out Loud, our brand-new interview series spotlighting young African women who are shaping culture, breaking barriers, and leading with creativity and purpose.
To kick things off, we’re featuring none other than Jeiel Damina, the multitalented actress, singer, writer, and storyteller you probably know from the hit web series Best Friends in the World. 🎬
In this feature, Jeiel shares insights into her creative process, behind-the-scenes stories, and what it truly means to own your voice and lead out loud.
Read the full interview below.
You wear so many hats, actress, singer, writer, blogger. If you had to introduce yourself in one sentence, how would you describe Jeiel Damina?
I am a storyteller at heart, whether it’s through acting, music, or writing, everything I do is about expressing truth and emotion in a way that connects deeply with people.
You’ve acted in popular web series like Fashion Girl and Best Friends in the World. What’s one unforgettable moment from filming that fans probably don’t know about?
To be honest, there are so many iconic moments, but I think my favorite parts are when during a scene, we have to pause because something happened (maybe a mistake) and the cast and crew can’t stop laughing. The camaraderie and joy behind the scenes make for a beautiful project and it’s truly an unforgettable experience that cuts across every project I’ve been blessed and privileged to be in.
You act, sing, write, and blog. Where do you feel most “in your element” creatively?
For me, writing is where I feel most in my element, as it allows me to process and pour out the deepest parts of myself. Acting and singing are the ways I share those parts with the world, but writing is how I process and feel and understand myself first.
You started young and have inspired so many other young African women. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone who wants to start creating but feels intimidated?
Start small, but start. Don’t wait to feel ready because confidence grows after you begin, not before. It’ll never be perfect and you’ll never be ready enough. Just prepare as best as you can and then start. This is advice I’m still applying to myself in areas of my life that are just blossoming or starting. And it’s advice I’ll always need and so I think it’s important. And remember, your voice is valid, even if it’s still finding its form.
Quick Fire Round, let’s go!
• Acting or Singing? Eeh! It’s hard to pick but I think because of growing up in a musical household, singing will always be my first love.
• Early mornings or Late nights? Late nights
• Writing or Performing? Performing.
• Dream collab? Tems and Zendaya. Ah! Picking would be a betrayal of my respect for their artistry. I have much admiration for their work ethic and what they’ve built, and picking their brains and just getting some wisdom would be a blessing, so either or both of them would be a dream.
