Meet Danyiel Coleman

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Danyiel Coleman. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Danyiel below.

Hi Danyiel, 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?

I have learned to be effective / successful in rooms where I am the only person that looks like me , by , truly and honestly understanding my own character . Your character is who you are and who you are is what your actions show , and in turn , what your words back up . Those are called morals and principles . To be able to stand in any space , where essentially, I am outnumbered, I have found a trust and confidence within who I am and who I truly present myself to be by showing up authentically , facing the world and all of its truths and unfiltered rawness , head on . I don’t cower in any room because I know who I am , no matter where I am standing. I know what I am capable of and all of my worth. I know who I am , because of the things I’ve lived and learned in my 22 years of life . Real experience and knowledge will help you stand tall through anything .

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?

I am an aspiring Director/Screenwriter , and what excites me most is the chance to build the life I know I can create through honest art and creativity. Before I discovered my passion for filmmaking, I was a devoted dancer for over five years and I was fully committed to pursuing a spot at Juilliard . But life is funny like that-plans changed, and in the process, I ended up graduating with two degrees. From day one, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.

Art, filmmaking, creativity in its entirety, allows me to express my , human, in ways ive never imagined-as both a visual art and a deeply emotional experience. My work draws inspiration from authentic, lived experiences , and I aim to explore human connection, identity and resilience. Right now , I am focused on developing my short film, which, explores themes of , sleep paralysis, finding self closure and self discovery. Im excited to share it with the world this summer. Stay tuned!

I want people to walk away from my work feeling , seen, understood , and inspired to embrace the unpredictability of their own journeys. More than anything, I want them to know they always have the choice to live this life- for themselves .

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

looking back , truthfully, I would say the major three qualities/skills of knowledge that were/are the most impactful in my journey so far is , being able to openly listen to opinions and prospectives that are not just your own and not taking it personally, getting out of your own way( which I am still currently working on ), and making the final decision of choosing a path and committing to success, despite doubt.

the best advice that I could give folks who are early in their journey ,is, fully committ to putting all the work in to make your dreams, visions, feelings and fairytales, come true. No matter how doubtful or unrealistic it may seem. Start truly Believing in yourself and turning all of your capabilities and skills into action , and you’ll be amazed by yourself and what you make happen.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I am absolutely looking for people to collaborate with. I love connecting with filmmakers and creatives of all kinds—whether it’s about art, music, film, or anything else. Since the start of my journey, I’ve been excited about being part of different creative communities and working with others who share the same passion. You can reach me through Instagram @danyiellyyy—feel free to DM me anytime! I’d love to chat and connect!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @danyiellyyy