Shaina Simmons
Shaina Simmons is an actress from New Orleans, who most recently can be seen on FOX Fantasy Island Season 2 Episode 8 as “Janette.
Shaina is a Master of Fine Arts who skillfully navigates the intersection of activism and performative praxis, crafting captivating narratives that deeply resonate with Black women across the globe. Through her body of work, she cultivates a sense of unity, healing, and heightened awareness. One of her digital shorts, titled “Been Black,” gained widespread recognition after Zendaya shared it on Instagram, touching the lives of millions.
In her introspective solo exhibition, “Bayou Blues,” Shaina fearlessly explores the intricate issue of colorism from the perspective of her upbringing in New Orleans as a young girl. With her groundbreaking multimedia project, “Afro Futuro,” Shaina seamlessly intertwines the rich tapestry of Black hairstyles with the mythology of the Orishas, delivering a potent critique of prevailing beauty standards.
A staunch advocate for equality, Shaina took the initiative to establish the Fringe Artist of Colour Meetup, addressing disparities within the festival circuit. Her contributions as a writer for respected platforms like “pursuitofnappiness.org” and HuffPost further exemplify her dedication to fostering acceptance and understanding.
Armed with master’s degrees in Acting and Social/Environmental Practice, Shaina utilizes her expertise to propel transformative change. Her distinctive combination of artistic prowess and unwavering commitment to social progress positions her as a trailblazer in the realm of storytelling.