Born in the mountains of West Virginia, Dawn Halfkenny is a poised and polished professional who is on the rise. This driven young lady has been able to present some of her talents through acting. She’s landed television and film roles such as FX’s “Atlanta,” Tyler Perry’s “The Haves and the Have Nots,” STARZ’s “Survivors Remorse,” and currently stars on Bounce’s “Saints & Sinners.” The leading actress recently added a producer credit to her résumé working alongside the phenomenal writer-director Mark Harris in the TV film “Black Privilege.” “I plan to achieve many goals in life, I’m easily motivated by keeping God first and staying focused,” she says. Her eager yet humble spirit shows that Halfkenny is definitely a step closer to her dreams.
If you were president, what’s the first thing you would do?
If I were president, the first thing I would do is build a solid team who cares about this country, “the land of the free” by equally protecting the rights of those living in it. No matter ethnicity, religion or nationality. There would be no division and mainly focus on whats important to making this world a better place for generations to come.
What woman entertainer deserves a biopic about her life that hasn’t been made yet and why?
That is a good question. Actually, two names come to mind. Meryl Streep and Viola Davis. Two extremely talented Oscar-winning actresses, with totally different backgrounds. I would love to be in the same room and listen to their stories leading up to how they got started in the industry and what were some obstacles they faced, which helped them to become successful women.
If you could change one thing for women in the entertainment industry, what would it be?
I enjoy seeing women being shown in a more positive light by their talent. Women of substance are finally receiving the type of recognition that is well deserved for their hard work. The fact that women are breaking records and making history, is so inspiring!
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self about growing up as a woman in this world?
At an early age, I was taught to carry myself in a way that people are always watching. It’s easy to get distracted but I’m a firm believer that God places the right people in your life to help guide you toward your destiny. I would definitely say, “Girl, stay focused!” There’s no such thing as setbacks only lessons learned. Honestly, I’m proud of the decisions my younger self-made; they helped mold me into the confident woman I am today.
As a powerful woman of influence, what is your responsibility to improve the world around you? How do you encourage action in others?
I know my purpose in life. Anyway that I am able to impact the community, I do my best to act on it. I aspire to inspire. In order to receive positive results, you must have faith and constantly speak life into things surrounding you. Spread love, peace, joy and of course have great energy! We witness enough hatred; be the change that you want to see happen. Simple.
With everything going on in the world, how do you keep yourself positive and motivated?
I pray a lot. I grew up in church so most of what I learned as a child has stuck with me as an adult. Also, my mother was very loving, supportive and a huge inspiration. She encouraged me to never settle or give up on my dreams; to continue to want more out of life, and constantly reminded me that I could accomplish anything I worked hard for and put my mind to.
Girls like sports too! Who are your favorite sports team to follow?
At this moment, I really don’t have a favorite team; however, I respectfully admire a few players. With the worlds unfortunate events, I notice that more players are coming together and supporting one another. Whether it be donations for hurricane victims, sticking up for another player or taking a knee for their own personal beliefs; in my opinion, that’s powerful sportsmanship.
What song do you listen to that psyches you up and makes you feel strong?
I can honestly say I listen to all genres of music so there’s not a specific song. In the morning, I listen to gospel. During the day, I switch from pop to trap [laughs]. It all depends. I like to keep my ear lyrically open to anything that motivates me throughout the day.
