Meet Deonte’ Bolden | Filmmaker, Playwright, Award- Winning Author, CEO, Podcaster, and Playwright Strategist

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

Hi Deonte’, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success, is being able to inspire other people to go for their dreams and aspirations. I love when people come up to me or write me about how my journey has inspired them to go for their dreams and pursue their goals. I think one other factor, is being able to my pain to push me towards my purpose. I lost my brother in 2006 due to complications from Muscular Dystrophy, and even though it was the most challenging time for me, I was able to use that life experience to help catapult me to the next level of my career through my writing and creativity while honoring my brother’s legacy.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I, Deonte’ Bolden, am an Award-Winning Atlanta based author, filmmaker, host, and playwright. I am a Washington DC Native, and after the tragic loss of my brother, Jaquan Bolden, I moved to Los Angeles to pursue my acting career while performing in various productions such as A Raisin in the Sun, Momma Tell Me Why, and other stage productions. I auditioned and became a member of Towne Street Theatre, a black theatre company in Los Angeles, which also introduced me to writing stories. While acting on set, I was told that I should write my own stories, In 2018 I moved to Atlanta, and launched my own production company. Through my production company, Deonte’ Bolden Productions, I made my directing and playwriting debut with the premiere of the stage play ” Looking For Love In All The Wrong Places.” The inaugural work was well- received by the Atlanta community and inspired audiences during the 4 sold out performances. I continued my acting career in Atlanta, while acting in” A Christmas Carol”, alongside of Palmer Williams, who starred in several of Tyler Perry’s production I am also the author of two publications, Purpose Pains which won The PEACH Theatre Literary Award in 2020 and a children’s book, Differently Abled, which is an empowerment book about four children with disabilities who go on a journey of developing self-love, acceptance, and confidence. The empowering story recently landed me an interview on Atlanta’s 11Alive News and Atlanta Live on WATC TV 57 in Atlanta. I am currently developing a series of works built around my life experiences that will inspire many generations.
I am where I am because of my struggles and pain. The challenges I have faced in life and dealing with depression has shaped me into the fearless and creative artist that I am right now. My journey has never been easy, I have faced many obstacles and betrayal from those who I have considered friends, and I have realized this industry is not for the faint. I have developed tough skin while learning that I am stronger than I think.
Recently, I also decided to create The Bolden Academy and The Bolden Awards, while pushing other artist to make BOLD moves while achieving GREATNESS, I have struggled with my own self-confidence, and not believing in myself. Now, I created a space for others to come and be uplifted and encouraged make BIG MOVES in their various careers. I want people to look at my life and say that I was fearless, creative, BOLD, and used my pain to push me towards my purpose

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to Atlanta Zoo because I love animals and find the zoo to be fascinating. It’s a great place to unqind along with the Aquarium. I love studying animals behaviors and movement.

I love to bowl so we would go to a Bowlero bowling alley. I am super competitive so it would give me the opportunity to set the bar high and reign as the bowling champion.

In Door Sky diving is fun, so I would love to skydive or do some go-kart riding ( Andretti).

Next, we would go to a poetry cafe or poetry night at Red Light Cafe’. I love hearing spoken word and poetry. It’s relaxing to unwind and have a nice drink or two, while eating some good food and listen to some creative poetry.

Finally visit a music lounge, possible Ilounge, or somewhere that has some good music to dance or some nice jazz to end the night.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to recognize my mother, Yvette Sauls-Bolden, for always being a supportive mother. Anything that I do she is always there to support, help, uplift, encourage me along the way. I have some amazing writer and creative friends, Annetta Swift, Linda K Lee, Lorenzo Evans, Shirlicia Mason, Silas Sealmikky & Johnnie Eagle all the way from Africa. These amazing people continue to keep me motivated and inspired. I love how we continue to pour into each other and support each other in all that we do. The constant calls and messages have been such a blessing in my life, even when I was down earlier this year to the point that I had contemplated suicide. Through the grace of God, these amazing friends lifted my spirit and reminded me that there is still purpose left in me and I must live and keep going.

Website: www.deonteboldenproductions.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/deonteboldenproductions

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deonte-bolden-79b37592

Twitter: Twitter.com/deontebolden

Facebook: Facebook.com/deonteboldenproductions

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBH6PQ_js9rV3niwOv9QVwA

Other: Clubhouse @deontebolden

Image Credits
Anthony Page Brandon French Kyle Jacko