Today we’d like to introduce you to Gena Lashay.
Hi Gena, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I began my adulthood journey about 27 years ago when I relocated to Orlando from Sarasota, Florida after high school. I attended and graduated from Valenica Community College and later received my bachelor’s degree in psychology from Columbia College.
I started my 17-year career in education at Oak Ridge High School and ended it last year at Jones High School. My service to the Orlando community has always been a great passion. But I had aspirations and dreams beyond education. With a change in course, a few divine connections, and lots of hard work, I am now a working actress, published model, and proud business owner of GlamFit Shapewear!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My biggest struggle was being a single mom, correction, teen mom that was also single. I made no excuses for my decisions, but it was hard, very hard.
Late nights, early mornings, low income, and a new city! Juggling parenthood with keeping steady work and school was a huge challenge for me. I thought about packing up. moving back home and dropping out of school every single day. But I persevered. I knew that my purpose was on the other side of the pain, so I kept going!
I believe Fredrick Douglass quoted, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.”
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am most proud of myself for taking the leap of faith to pursue my acting and modeling career. I have filmed three feature films, four short films, two television series, and four commercials in less than two years! My resume also includes over 30 fashion shows. magazine publications, bridal showcases, and numerous interviews. I truly believe I am right where I am supposed to be.
I have a community of people that support and believe in me. My heart for people and service sets me apart from others in this industry. My passion for education is still a huge part of my journey. I offer affordable self-tape services and workshops to aspiring actors and models. Simply put, each one should teach one, I love sharing my gifts with others. I am thankful that my story inspires so many people. It motivates me to keep going.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I would like to say that you never know who you are sitting next to. Be kind to people, smile at them, and a helping hand if you can. A little can go a long way.
Nothing that we have accomplished is just for us! We are all here for each other. There are people that I refer to as my “divine connections” because I needed them to get from point A to point B. One person, one divine connection can change your life more than you ever imagined.
Pricing:
- GlamFit Shapewear $25.00-$70.00
- From Shamed to Signed Audio Presentation $23.00
- Self-Tape Services with reader $30.00/30 minutes $50.00/60 minutes
Contact Info:
- Website: glamfitshapewear.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glamourwithgena/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gena.a.lashay/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/genalashay
Image Credits
Max Austin, Brion Price, Kelly T, New Lens Photography, and Tae Porter
