We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jerone Darden. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jerone below.
Hi Jerone, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I started performing at a young age. The first role I remember having was as Simba in a version of “The Lion King” at Central Elementary School in the mid-90s. My inspiration to perform came from Michael Jackson and Sister Georgia “Peaches” Adams, a minister and pastor’s wife from my church in Allentown, PA. This early exposure to the arts ignited my passion for singing and performing.
After moving around a lot, I landed at Sheridan Elementary School in Allentown, where I began taking vocal lessons with my music teacher, Ms. Beltzner. I would bring her Christian children’s sheet music, and she helped me develop my voice. In 4th or 5th grade, I sang in a 9/11 memorial service with the governor of Pennsylvania in attendance, performing the US Marines’ theme song in the Armed Forces medley.
During the summers, I participated in the Allentown Playground Festival, performing at Central Elementary/Alliance Hall day camps, gaining experience performing in front of larger crowds. In 6th grade, at Harrison Morton Middle School, I joined the chorus and was selected for the elite chorus group directed by Ms. Jennifer Dodd. I also took voice lessons at Community Music School, studying under Rebekah Graver and Ian Holmes. These experiences included singing the national anthem on WDIY radio and performing in a recital at Barnes & Noble.
In middle school, I participated in a program called “Clown College,” where we created our clown personas and learned about the circus arts. Additionally, I was selected for the Upward Bound program at East Stroudsburg University, which prepared students for college with summer and Saturday classes.
High school at William Allen was busy with choir, show choir, and chorale, all directed by Mr. Patrick Brady, and theater company, directed by Mr. John Sechler. Despite never making it into the fall plays, I was cast in ensemble roles for the spring musicals, “Sweet Charity” and “Gypsy.” I also delved into crew work, eventually becoming a stage manager my senior year. Post-high school, I worked as an assistant stage manager for community theater productions.
After a decade-long pause due to legal issues and personal challenges, I resumed my performance career in October 2022 by taking modeling courses at IMAGE International Modeling & Acting Center. Since February 2023, I’ve been involved in numerous productions, films, music videos, and more, steadily rebuilding my career.
This journey, marked by continuous learning and resilience, significantly developed my self-esteem and confidence. Overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities have shaped who I am today, driving me to pursue my passions with renewed vigor.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As the founder and creative force behind Jeada, my multifaceted artistic career encompasses acting, modeling, photography, and singing. Based in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, I have been immersed in the arts from a young age, performing in various theatrical productions and honing my skills across multiple disciplines.
Jeada is a dynamic brand that captures the essence of my diverse talents. It serves as a platform for showcasing my artistic journey, collaborations, and projects. Currently, I am involved in several exciting ventures, including theatrical productions, short films, music videos, and fashion photoshoots. One of the most thrilling aspects of my work is the opportunity to collaborate with other creatives, sharing our visions and bringing unique stories to life.
Looking ahead, Jeada has several new initiatives on the horizon. These include the launch of a series of photo series and collaborations that will highlight the fashion and artistic communities I am passionate about.
Through Jeada, I strive to inspire others, promote creativity, and contribute meaningfully to the arts. I invite readers to follow my journey on Instagram (@firekeeper_jeada) and add me as a friend on Facebook (Jerone Arnold Darden) for the latest updates and opportunities for collaboration.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities and skills stand out as most impactful: perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning.
Perseverance: The ability to keep going despite setbacks is crucial. My journey has had its share of challenges, but staying determined helped me overcome obstacles and grow stronger.
Advice: Stay committed to your goals, even when faced with difficulties. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth.
Adaptability: Being flexible and open to change has allowed me to thrive in various artistic fields.
Advice: Embrace new experiences and be willing to adjust your approach. This flexibility will open up new opportunities and help you grow.
Continuous Learning: Always seek to improve your craft. From vocal lessons to modeling courses, ongoing education has been key to my development.
Advice: Invest in your education and seek out mentors. Stay curious and never stop learning, as this will keep you at the top of your game.
For those early in their journey, I recommend setting clear goals, remaining resilient, and continuously seeking knowledge. Your dedication and willingness to adapt and learn will pave the way for success.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Absolutely, I am always eager to collaborate with passionate and creative individuals. As a gay cis Black man and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I value diversity and inclusivity in all my projects. I politically lean far left and am dedicated to using my art to promote social justice and equality.
I am looking to partner with fellow actors, models, photographers, directors, and artists who share a commitment to excellence, creativity, and progressive values. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, I believe collaboration can lead to incredible artistic synergy and innovation.
If you’re interested in collaborating, please feel free to connect with me on Instagram (@firekeeper_jeada) or add me as a friend on Facebook (Jerone Arnold Darden). Let’s create something amazing together!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @firekeeper_jeada
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jerone.darden.1/
Image Credits
1.) Lori Smith
2.) Valentin’s Photography
3.) Thomas Villegas
4.) Dolly’s Dressing Rooms
5.) Valdez Imagery
6.) Urban Fashion Exchange
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
