We were lucky to catch up with Alisha Mona recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alisha , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only person of color is more common than you think in the industry especially when you’re in a supervising role in television like myself. It unfortunately also comes with the pressure of your peers (who don’t look like you) second guessing your ability to do your job. BUT to that person that wants to be in a supervisor role, I’ve found that you can be the most EFFECTIVE by being confident, and prepared. I can’t tell you how many people that I’ve met and or worked with in this industry that had no clue what they were doing–BUT you’d never guess it because they walked in like they were suppose to be there and no one questioned it. And even then, it’s not enough when you’re a POC. You’ve got to do the work, and in most cases even more than your peers. Be prepared, do your homework, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Trust me, I am speaking from experience as my first supervising role came with little to no preperation.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
My name is Alisha Mona, and I am from Detroit, Michigan. I moved to California two weeks after I turned 18 to accomplish my goals of working in the entertainment industry. It’s been my dream since I was 12 years old, watching the behind the scenes of music videos, and notating my favorite directors. I am an artist by trade. I sing, I write, and I help create amazing television. I feel so blessed to have an amplified voice as a black creator, it’s really what makes me special. I’ve been fortunate to have the chance to be in LA and successfully make it work, which is an achievement in its own right. In recent years, my television career has flourished, and I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with Sony, Warner Media, and NBCUniversal to bring to life some of your favorite TV Shows, like Atypical, Eurovision, and Quantum Leap. Due to the recent industry changes, I now have the opportunity to deeply contemplate my desired path and ensure it revolves more around activities that bring me joy. As a result, I’ve been engaging in projects that bring me happiness. I’ll be performing at Grand Central Market for two consecutive weekends in December– be on the lookout for the official announcement. In addition to that, I’ve been immersing myself in creative endeavors that bring me joy. Currently, I’m in the process of producing a podcast titled “The Boys are Fighting,” developing a lifestyle website, and writing an EP!. I’m thrilled because everything I invest myself in now will be more meaningful because its coming from my heart. I can’t wait to share this with you all.
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?
My 3 qualities that were most impactful in my journey had to be: having positive energy, being empathetic, and working hard. I’ve learned from working in this industry that being a good person, being nice (to a certain extent of course,) and always having good energy keeps you in the circle. I can’t stress this enough to those who want to work in the industry. People like to work with who they want to be around, and they remember who they don’t like. EVERYONE talks. Coming from the standpoint of a supervisor now, I realized how imperative it was to have empathy. Working in TV, everyone has one goal, and that is to get the show done, and not everyone makes it to the end. From experience, people always find a better paying gig or opportunity, and you can’t take it personal. You really have to do what’s best for you, and be okay with others doing that too. Lastly, work hard, without all the complaining. I pride myself in there not being a task that I can’t complete, and I give it my all! And if for any reason, I can’t do that. I step away, but I’ll be damned if I don’t try. Be resourceful.
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?
The people that have been most helpful in helping me overcome my challenges is my family, and friends. Due to the ongoing strike, my life has been completely upended. When working on these shows, I dedicated my entire self, enduring 12 to 18-hour days every single day, and now it has come to a standstill. HOWEVER, IT REVEALED TO ME what held the greatest significance: MY SUPPORT SYSTEM. This is the very reason I’ve persevered in LA. It underscores the importance of surrounding yourself with individuals who have faith in you and will speak positively about you even in your absence. I can’t express how many instances in this industry I’ve faced tough times—no job, no money. In those moments, my family and friends consistently extended their support, believed in my journey, and helped me get back on my feet each time. And to that person that needs to hear this, maintain positive relationships with those who support you, and reciprocate their kindness.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @alisha.mona
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alishaplummer/
Image Credits
Detric Hicks
