Maya Jai Pinson On Working Behind The Camera And Recent Award Nominations

An actress to look out for!

Maya Jai Pinson is quickly becoming an actress to know, especially when it comes to her short films. Recently, she received 2 different nominations from ‘The Young Artist Academy’ awards for her work.

We had the absolute honor of talking with Maya about her film ‘Distraction’, her favorite actress, and more!

When did you first realize that you wanted to pursue a career in acting?

M: “Having family in the film industry made it easier for me to develop an interest in pursuing an acting career. Although I’ve always had a love for the arts, plays, writing and instruments, I was 11 years old when I decided to get into film. I booked my first supporting role in a movie when I was 13 years old. It was super fun filming, being on sets, and meeting other actors. Watching the finish product lit a match in my heart. That’s when I new I found something I really liked.”

You have been a part of so many amazing projects. If you had to choose, do you have a favorite you have been in so far?

M: “Distraction is my favorite film that I wrote, produced directed and acted in.  The message in Distractions teaches all drivers to remain focus on the road, don’t allow your riders to distract you and is for all drivers new and old. We had a lot of creative shots, had fun filming it and I enjoyed driving in it.  One of my other exciting parts about Distractions was the make-up.  The makeup artist did an awesome job with the special affect’s makeup.”

If you could star in a movie with any actress, who would it be and why?

M: “I would love to film with Zendaya. She has been one of my favorite actresses since I was 10 years old. She is an amazing actress and seems like a fun person to work with.”

You have written, produced, and directed several of your own films. Was it a challenge working both in-front and behind the camera?

M: “I’m Ready was the first film I wrote, produced and starred in, and it was a different yet good experience for me. I was pulled in more directions unlike I would have been if I were just acting. Growing up I’ve always been good at multitasking and a quick study. I had a lot of fun adjusting to the additional responsibilities.  Now, I am very comfortable wearing multiple hats from writing, acting, directing, producing and cinematography.” 

You were recently nominated for 2 Young Artist awards. What was your reaction to this amazing achievement?

M: “It was an awesome and exciting feeling.  This is my second year as a two-time nominee and I’m the first teen to have ever been nominated from Washington, DC.  Last year I won the Young Artist Awards “Outstanding Writer”.  My motivation for doing film projects is not for recognition and awards. I love what I do and love spreading positive message throughout the community. When I receive accolades, I feel blessed, and I am glad that people are enjoying my film projects.”

What are some of your biggest acting goals?

M: “Three of my acting goals is starring in a thriller, becoming an A list actress, and winning an Oscar.”

When not working on upcoming projects, what are some of your favorite things to do?

M: “I love hanging out with family, friends, traveling, spending time outdoors, reading and drawing.”

Where can we follow your amazing journey?

M: “You can follow me on Instagram @MayaJai04. Subscribe to my YouTube page at MJaiP Productions. Facebook is Mjai Pinson.”

Je’Kayla Crawford– Founder and Director– Je’Kayla has been a journalist for years and decided to start a publication of her own, New Scene. When not helping her team and working on the monthly issues, you can find her watching a movie on Netflix or baking using a viral Tasty recipe.