Meet Zuri Chaka | Actor, Social Media Influencer, & Drag Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zuri Chaka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zuri, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I never saw myself working a “regular job”; I always wanted to create & express myself to the fullest. I have always been inspired by art & other creatives and so by creating art myself, hopefully I can inspire the next generation of creatives & artists to be themselves to the fullest.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am an actor who is also a Drag Artist. My first art form is my acting & drag is another facet of performance. With acting & drag, I didn’t receive any help from others & instead pushed myself to learn & become a better actor & drag artist. I am proud that I continued in my career when it was more difficult to book roles. During those times I pushed myself to improve my skills & improve my chances at casting. It wasn’t easy but I never gave up, constantly looking for opportunities to learn & grow. Today I am grateful that I persevered through the difficult moments in my career because it had made me the performer I am today. If there’s a takeaway from my career experience, it is to never give up on your dreams; if a dream is worth having, it is worth making it a reality.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My top recommendation for anyone coming to Dallas is the Gayborhood in Oaklawn. Located on Cedar Springs Ave in Dallas, this strip of Queer friendly clubs & bars has something for everyone! No matter how you identify, all are welcome on the strip of Cedar Springs. From Drag shows, delectable restaurants & street food, talent nights & live karaoke, the Gayborhood in Oaklawn (Cedar Springs Ave.) is the place to be any day of the week!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My partner, Yasmine La Cara, has always pushed me to remain truthful to myself. My career involves taking lots of risks & I wouldn’t have been able to confidently step out of my comfort zone had it not been for my partner supporting me. Yasmine inspires me to be the best version of myself & to fully go after what I want in life & my career.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ZuriChaka

Twitter: Www.Twitter.com/zurichaka

Image Credits
Model: Zara La Cara (Zuri Chaka) Makeup Artist: Zuri Chaka Hairstylist: Zuri Chaka, Yasmine La Cara Photographer: Yasmine La Cara