Meet Tarnesha Small | Actress, Model & Writer

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

Hi Tarnesha, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I chose to pursue a career in entertainment as an actress because it’s my passion. Movies, Music/Videos, Television shows and Musicals have always brought me so much joy.

When I was a child and throughout my teen years, I was glued to the television. I wanted to sing like Whitney, move like Janet and perform like Angela Bassett, (just to name a few). Despite those obvious signs to pursue arts and entertainment, I went the safe route getting a “good” job at a Fortune 500 Company. Now, I was good at my job. I worked hard, was a high performer and served as a Subject Matter Expert. I eventually found myself miserable and unfulfilled. Thankfully I returned to my first love after an old friend unknowingly reminded me of my potential and gifts I wasn’t using. It was at this moment, I knew God used her to pass the message to me. I’m grateful, even though a career in the entertainment world is unpredictable, challenging, filled with disappointments, a plethora of No’s, and known for being an unstable career path (lol), there is truly nothing else I’d rather be doing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I came into this industry just wanting to be an actress. When it came to television and film, I had no other expectations or aspirations to do anything else. As I navigated through my career, I had some wins but also came across so many roadblocks. I knew there would be challenges but it became increasingly obvious that I would have to do more, think outside the box and begin creating the opportunities I was seeking.

I first started by doing short, funny videos on social media. It required me to step out of my comfort zone. Once I stopped overthinking it, I had so much fun and some successful moments. It exposed me to opportunities I didn’t see coming which was the direct result of my leap of faith into the creator’s space. It was another nudge from God, I was going in the right direction.

At the same time, Covid and the actor and writers strike began taking its toll on the industry. Productions had come to a complete halt and all union auditions dried up completely. I knew if there were no roles out there for me to audition for, I needed to create them for myself in a bigger way. Which again, pushed me right out of my comfort zone even more. So I started writing.

I’m excited to say, I got through my first short film then moved on to my full feature. After so many long nights, weekends, moments of frustration and pushing past the voices of unbelief, I committed to the process and completed two scripts. I’m deeply proud of myself. Though admittedly, the next steps are daunting, I remain hopeful that I will get it done.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The city of Atlanta, and surrounding area, has lots of dining options and activities to choose from. A few of my favorite spots to visit include:

– Tacos & Tequila’s – Great Food, Drinks and Awesome Dj (on select nights)
– The City Winery – Intimate Performances by artist around the world, Food and Drinks- Monticello’s – Awesome Music, Comedians and Food Choices
– Belt Line – Variety of Restaurants and Shopping
– Rock Steady – Night Club, Amazing Throwback and Current Music
– Stone Mountain Park – Outdoor Hiking Trails, Fun Activities and Events
– Georgia Aquarium – The World’s Largest Aquarium with amazing galleries and animals
– Atlanta Botanical Garden – Beautiful oasis of Art and Nature
– Spaceman Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Light Menu, Drinks, Great Atmosphere, Music & DJ (on Wednesday’s)

I also hear the following places are great as well:
– Gocha’s Breakfast Bar – Classic Breakfast (Fish & Grits, Eggs and Vegan Option)
– Atlanta Breakfast Club – Delicious Breakfast (French Toast, Waffles Biscuits and Gravy etc.)
– Sunday Brunch ATL – Savory and Sweet Brunch options

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to start by thanking my God. He is the head of my life, my sustainer. I am grateful for the gifts and anointing he has poured into me, for my relationship with Him and for His unwavering love, favor, grace and mercy.

There are so many people I could name and want to acknowledge that have been influential in my life as well. My family, close friends, church members, coaches, mentors and agents who have all played a major role in my success.

Obviously I can’t name everyone but I have to give recognition to a few very important people who fill up my life with joy, their presence and support. My sisters Felecia R. Motley and Coretha Robinson, who have always had my back and encouraged my endeavors. My mother, Annie Robinson, who shows her support by jokingly asking me when I’m gonna be in the next Tyler Perry film. As if I have control over that (LOL). All jokes aside, she tells me she’s proud of me too. My dad, Carlton J. Robinson, who wasn’t much for words but would brag about me when I wasn’t present. Thanks Daddy. I miss and love you dearly. My late pastor, Rev. Roy George Plummer, who believed in me more than I believed in myself. I hope I continue to make you proud as well. We all miss you. Last, but certainly not least, a special shout out goes to my biggest supporter, my amazing husband, Cornelius Small. He has been my rock since day one. He keeps me sane, grounded and uplifted during the ups and downs of life and my career. He reminds me of my greatness at the right moments, but at the same time, holds me accountable while loving me through the process.

I’m extremely blessed to have such a solid and strong foundation of support.

Website: https://tarneshasmall.wixsite.com/actress

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tarnesha_Small

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TarneshaSmall

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6dGyCLY37RqW6i2GKE1kVw

Other: IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7746304/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0

Image Credits
Main Headshot (Blue Top): Tara Gulledge Photography
Model Picture (Blue Dress): Amir Leon
Headshot (Grey Blazer): Brian Jones Photography
Screenshots (Our Kind of People): Fox Network
Screenshot (Celebrity Prank Wars): E! Network