Today we’d like to introduce you to Allaina Maria.
Hi Allaina, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey as a writer began through grief. The sudden loss of my uncle, Darryl J. Ford turned my world upside down. I often say his passing broke my heart but fixed my vision. At the time, I was complacent in life, but one day, while sitting on my couch, the idea of writing a book came to me, a thought I had never entertained before. I opened my laptop and began typing. My first book, “Mariah,” an urban fiction novel, was born. Since then, I have authored over twenty books across various genres, including urban fiction, poetry, journals, and anthologies. In the near future, I plan to release a sci-fi novel, a murder mystery, and a memoir.
I launched my company Allaina Maria 360 LLC in 2024. Additionally, I ventured into motivational speaking, delivering talks at a conference in Gaborone, Botswana, as well as in cities across the United States, such as Chicago, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. I also am currently acting, embracing the journey of being on set and learning. This experience inspired me to write my first screenplay after completing my debut novel, “Mariah.”
Looking ahead, I am preparing to launch an online shop and plan to release my solo musical EP in late 2025. I live by the motto I coined: “I refuse to give the grave any of my potential.”
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, the road has not been smooth. Any entrepreneur will tell you it comes with ups and downs, Fears and freights alike. To be honest, self-doubt seems to try to creep in from time to time. Asking yourself hard question s is a real reality. “Whay did I do this to myself? Am I worthy? Do I have what it takes? AM I good enough. The list goes on and on. The old adage that we are our own worst critic is a true statement. However, through every moment of doubt there are 100 moments of triumph to drown it out, so to the reader who is thinking about level up, going after that dream or goal please DO IT! Bet on yourself. Believe in yourself. Yes, it will cost you something but there is no sweeter reward than accomplishing what you set out to do.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As stated previously I am an actress, screenwriter, singer/songwriter, motivation speaker and entrepreneur. I am most known for my novel ‘Mariah’ which introduced me to the author world. Writing was my start, but I am many branches of the arts. My heart belongs to the arts. I absolutely love every facet of what I do as a creative and artist. Lately I have put into high gear of my life as an actress. I am absolutely loving the challenge of learning my scripts, being on set and bringing to life the characters I am asked to play. It is an absolute joy.
What I am most proud of is conquering my years of complacency. I was comfortable with my 9-5. I bought my house, got a truck, paid the bills. But I knew there was more. I am proud of pushing myself to unlock the gifts God gave me and to decide not to just be alive but to live.
What sets me apart from others is that I am a perpetual student of life. I am always learning and growing. No matter what I have accomplished I humbly submit to those who can pour into me and help me learn and grow. In return I am always willing to pour into and help others.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
To get in contact with me or to purchase any of my books please visit Allainamaria.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://allainamaria.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allainamaria/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllainaMaria/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allaina-maria-b2224927a
Image Credits
Scott Thomas Photography
