We recently connected with Sarai Maya and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sarai , so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
Over time, I’ve learned to remain focused and intentional, even when I find myself as the only one in the room who looks like me. I’ve come to understand that success is deeply personal and can take many forms. For me, it means setting goals, embracing the learning process, and finding purpose in the work I do whether that’s completing a project or developing a new skill. My greatest accomplishments are the ones I’ve achieved through consistent effort over the past few years. They serve as a reminder that growth and fulfillment often come from within, regardless of the environment or circumstances.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Meet Sarai: A Multifaceted Force in Entertainment and Empowerment
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, Nevada, Sarai is a dynamic professional whose career spans over 12 years in the entertainment and branding industries. From modeling and dance to leadership and live performance, her journey is one defined by versatility, resilience, and a deep commitment to growth—not just for herself, but for those around her.
“I’ve always believed in leading with intention and showing up fully in every space I enter,” Sarai shares. “Whether I’m working with a team or standing on a stage, I want to bring clarity, creativity, and authenticity.”
Sarai got her start in modeling and quickly expanded her career into professional dance and bilingual brand representation. She as worked with major global brands including Samsung, Toshiba, Yamaha, and Nikon, traveling across the U.S. and Mexico while also assisting with sales and management for their Latin American teams.
But Sarai’s presence isn’t limited to trade shows and campaigns. She’s also a crowned beauty queen, holding multiple titles such as Miss Nevada WOA 2014, Miss Nevada Latina 2015, and Miss Nebraska US 2016. Her pageant journey began at 23 and has since become a source of empowerment and personal growth. “Pageantry taught me confidence, discipline, and how to use my platform to inspire others.”
In one of her newest and most exciting ventures, Sarai has joined the cast of the longest-running show “THE MENTALIST” on the Las Vegas Strip—a landmark production that has captivated audiences for decades. Since January 2025, she has taken on the role of female mentalist, blending mystery, performance, and presence in a way that’s uniquely her own. “It’s an honor to be part of something so iconic,” she says. “This role pushes me creatively and gives me a chance to connect with audiences in a powerful new way.”
Whether she’s on stage, behind the scenes, or mentoring others, Sarai continues to build a brand rooted in excellence, empowerment, and representation. With more creative projects on the horizon, she’s just getting started.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey, there are three core values that have truly shaped who I am: hard work, focus, and humility. These are principles I live by. No matter where life takes you, staying grounded and humble will always keep you aligned with your purpose.
One of the most impactful skills I’ve developed is the ability to communicate effectively not just in business, but in personal relationships too. Communication is the foundation of everything. When you know how to listen, express yourself clearly, and understand others, you open the door to stronger connections and better outcomes in every area of life.
In terms of knowledge, I’ve learned the power of truly listening. In my field, it’s not just about speaking it’s about hearing what others are saying, understanding their needs, and responding with clarity and intention. That’s where real collaboration and success begin.
For anyone just starting their journey, my biggest advice is this: never give up on what you want. Stay committed, be consistent, and work hard because when you combine dedication with belief in yourself, anything is possible. I always say, the sky’s the limit.
One book that had a huge impact on my mindset is The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. It taught me about the power of intention and visualization, and I always recommend it to others who are looking to stay inspired and focused on their goals.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Surprisingly, one of the most impactful influences in my personal and professional growth has been my experience in pageantry. While many may not immediately see pageants as a source of deep development, they were truly transformative for me. Competing taught me so much about myself my strengths, my resilience, and the kind of woman I wanted to become.
When I first entered the world of pageantry, it was out of curiosity. I wanted to understand what it was all about. But over time, I discovered that pageantry is far more than wearing a crown it’s a demanding, expressive sport for women. You have to train mentally and physically, develop your public speaking, present your best self, and most importantly, build a brand that aligns with a cause and community.
Through those years, I learned discipline, how to stay focused, how to communicate with purpose, and how to lift others up along the way. I didn’t just compete I built a team and community of people I trusted and continued working with even after my pageant days ended.
Pageantry gave me the foundation to grow as a woman, a professional, and a leader. It wasn’t just about a title it was about the skills, network, and confidence I gained that continue to serve me today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://mentalist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraimaya_
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