Jozanne Marie is an acclaimed actress, playwright, poet and an advocate for women. This Jamaican born multi-talented artist is also a NAACP Theatre Awards WINNER for Best Solo Show – BEAUTIFUL. Which she wrote and performed.
Interview with Jozanne Marie
How did you get the opportunity to present at TED? What was your Talk about?
First, I must say, I am a huge fan of TED. There are so many inspiring speakers and it was dream of mine to be on that stage. In November of 2018 I made the first step by attending a Live Tedx event to get familiar with the atmosphere and meet the speakers. This inspired me to take the next step by applying. Needless to say, on January 2019 I was selected as one of the 50 thought leaders from a around the country to participate in Women on TEDx stage.
My talk was about breaking the cycle of fear and shame when it comes to rape, sexual assault and child molestation. I dived into how to create a progressive society that is shameless and fearless, especially for women and young girls in the world. The video will be released January 18th, 2020
Tell us about your book launch: what’s it about; how long did it take you to write it; how did you get a publisher?
My book BEAUTIFUL, Unashamed and Unafraid was released, April 23rd 2019. It took me several drafts over a two years span. Regarding a publisher, I basically did my research on what publishers best fit my genre and submitted to them a proposal. Gratefully they were interested and here we are.
How are you using your story/book to impact the community?
Well, this is a universal truth, that when we speak out about any kinds if injustice we give others the permission to speak out as well. I believe the things that took place in my life and me overcoming them is a gift given to me and all I am doing is giving it back to humanity because no matter what age or race we are, we all can identify with some form of trauma or oppression that have us not living to our fullest potential. My book and story is a tool I use to remind others that they are seen, loved and heard. I am so honored and humbled to know that it’s impacting women, men and children all over the world to walk in their identity, freedom and beauty.
What other projects are you working on (or where can we see you next)?
Currently, I am working on my next solo play, Brown Girl in the Ring that will make its debut this summer 2020. Also, I recently filmed a supporting role in the upcoming feature film, Quiet in my Town to be released in 2020. Other than that I have three pilots in the works as well, as my feature film, Beautiful that I co -wrote with acclaimed writer/director, Michael Carney.
How long have you been a 3As member and how has the organization benefited you?
I have been a member for the past six years. This organization has benefited me by the camaraderie of the artistic community most importantly and the educational tools necessary to take our artistic career to the next level. It’s always a blessing to find an artistic community that supports and inspire each other to excellence. The African Artists’ Association is a community of professionals in the entertainment industry that is definitely changing the narrative of the diaspora. Honored to be part of them.