Meet Nadia Butterfield | Actress & Model

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

Hi Nadia, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
You have to push through the fear of the unknown. Always have faith that your current circumstances will not last forever. I have had many days where that little voice inside of my head tried to rule me and for a long time, it did. But I am so glad I never gave up on myself because I am finally understanding just how infinite my potential is. Deep down, I think I knew all along… and that’s how I knew to keep going.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have always been a creative. As a kid, I participated in lots of talent shows and extracurricular activities. My passion for fashion, modeling, and dancing has always been such a strong force in my life. Growing up I never missed an episode of America’s Next Top Model. The thrill of watching girls chase their dreams really left a lasting impression on me. I felt like if they could do it, so could I. As a teen, I took modeling classes, went to casting calls, modeling/acting expos and networked in the industry. Today, I am still working with like-minded individuals through collaborations, online communities and word of mouth. I also have a strong love for film and television and am currently working on several projects. Although I’m not a signed model or walking in NYFW (yet)… I still believe that I can and will have exactly what I want out of my life. I think that’s what sets me apart from others. After a tragic car accident and being diagnosed with Stage 2 Lung Cancer… I never gave up on myself and my dreams. It has been an extremely difficult journey to say the least. Each and every day I am healing. But I didn’t realize until recently that because I am able to stand here today with my head held high, that my purpose is to inspire and evoke others.
Going through two major traumatic life events, pretty much back-to-back, has made me realize that I have to go after my dreams whole-heartedly. I learned that healing is an uncomfortable but incredibly rewarding lifelong journey. I want the world to know that I have arrived. My past does not define me. And I will never be afraid to be… me. So, you shouldn’t either. 

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I think the perfect place to start is Piedmont Park! It’s always events going on so I’m sure we could find something entertaining or just have a cute little picnic. Then, we’d make our way to The Beltline and explore the different eateries/shops. I would suggest Two Urban Licks for dinner. I also love to thrift, so I’d show them some of my favorite stores in Little Five Points. Ponce City Market is one of my favorite areas to hang out too. We could get drinks at Bar Vegan and then stop by Modern Mystic to grab some sage and essential oils. Colony Square is another amazing place with a food hall and bar. Gekko has delicioussss hibachi bowls! We could probably catch a movie at IPIC while we’re there too. After that, we could stop by TEN in East ATL Village; they have live jazz nights and an amazingly quaint vibe. I’m also learning how to roller-skate, so we could catch a late night session at Golden Glide.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a hugeeee shoutout to my support system! I love you guys with everything in me!!! You all have uplifted me in my darkest hour and showered me with unconditional love. I am so grateful God blessed me with such caring friends & family. I will never be able to repay you for all of the love and advice you all have given me. You guys never fail to put a smile on my face. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadialadaven/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nadialadaven

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/NadiaLaDaven

Image Credits

Photos in black body suit: @_kourtneyiman

Bathing suit/Teal and gold dress:@alexajoswim

Photos in Alexa Jo Swim: @thephotojojo