Today we’d like to introduce you to Nya Jonele.
Hi Nya, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am a total Barb Wire, if she lived in the world of a John Waters movie. I’m a spring breaker with absolutely no fear or loathing of Las Vegas. My campy, chaotic life is balanced out by true grit, resilience, and a deeply ambiguous source of income. At the end of the day, I’m destined to live the life of a weird, tragic, and trashy western darling with a touch of whimsy and a strong heart.
Currently, I am in post production for my first self-produced independent short film Heaven Sent. Recently, I was talent and marketing ambassador for the independent feature film Fucktoys at the SXSW 2025 world premiere.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing up as a non-Mormon with a passion for fashion really made me stick out like a sore thumb in Utah. Being a girl in itself made me an easy target. In my younger years, the comments, the looks, the bullying really got to me. I couldn’t help being Catholic. I couldn’t help that I was so chic. As much as I was aware of the relentless cultural misogyny in a place like Utah, it felt like the whole world wanted me to hide under an ankle length dress.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an actor, model, and filmmaker. This year, I wrote, produced, directed, and starred in my first film, Heaven Sent. It was shot on 16mm film and is currently in post production. In this film, I play a young woman who outsmarts the male gaze to save her sapphic best friend. This story was conjured up through my love of feminine friendship and my frustration with internalized misogyny.
I am very proud of my artistic integrity. I know whatever film I’m making, whatever photoshoot I throw together, whatever role I play is aligned with who I want to be as an artist and what I want to share with the world. Now more than ever, young women, queer youth, and members of oppressed communities need their voices to be heard. I want to set an example and provide opportunities for my peers to be a part of a project where they actually feel represented.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/nyajonele
