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

Hi Jalen, what is the most important factor behind your success?
My Mom. She did everything for me. She started me in everything I am doing over 3 years ago. I had a chance for a commercial and my Mom didn’t know I would have wanted to do it. As soon I told her I wanted to act she went I got me into the first production she could find which happened to be a feature film “First Man-The Neil Armstrong Story”. I have since been successful as an Actor, Pianist, Model, Journalist, Jr. Chef, Host and Celebrity Interviewer.
I am able to follow my dreams however I see them and I get lots of kid time, too!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an all around creative. I easily find energy in every form of art. My goal is to make people happy. I am my best when what I do leaves comfort and a smile on the face of the world.
I am growing consistently because of hard work. My family also believes in great play as a reward for the hard work we put into our goals.
I would never say what I do is hard because I enjoy all of it. I am learning as a kid that focus is very important and I am thankful for all on my team that help me to stay focused and to understand when it’s time to relax. Fun is a big part of my success,
I want the world to know that I love what I do. I put God FIRST. I am happy you guys are liking and seeing what I am doing.

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.
I Love Nitro Zone. It offers bowling, Ninja Courses, Go-Cart riding, an arcade, Bazooka Ball and a trampoline park! We could spend a full day there. I am a foodie. My favorite is any place that offers a seafood bucket. I also like Fogo de Chao. There are lots of awesome burger places, too. Since I like to cook, I would make them a steak dinner, too.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Obviously, my Mom and Dad has been very supportive of my dreams and business. My piano teacher (RIP) Ms. Sarah Phillips. She was my mentor and she helped me to learn one of the most important skills I know. InDaHouse Media, Jerome Dorn has been a great influence and has introduced me to many great situations, including media opportunities to support the John Lewis voting Initiative. News Anchor Vince Sims is a constant reminder to me to stay focused. My many acting coaches- Catapult {Carrie Anne}, The Actor’s Scene {Amie and Alicia}, Neko Parham, Johnna Johnson, and TACA {Naja}.

A special thank you to my Agent, Amy/ Eris Talent Agency, for believing in me and for the guidance provided.

I have been influenced by all guests on my show JALEN SAYS! Live Show. Special thanks to Michael Colyar who gave me the first live interviewing opportunity and also for the comedic training I received in his Master Comedy Class.
There has been so many people I have met on my journey so far that are very special to me and my family and I thank them for their continual support.
My brothers and family and, especially, my Grandma have all been my influences and support.

Website: JALENSAYS.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jalensays/ and https://www.instagram.com/jalenaliyu/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/247838972927501 and https://www.facebook.com/jalen.aliyu.16

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

Image Credits
Jerome Dorn – Behind Camera Muhammed White- Jacket w/ scarf & sweater photos Terry Hall- Planet Jalen Says Graphic

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