Cylla Senii is a versatile and daring director, producer, writer, and actress who shines both on-screen and behind the scenes. Born in Queens, NY and raised in the deep south of Georgia, Cylla is proving to be a force to be reckoned with for her work on stage, film, television, and the entertainment industry.
1. What's your story? What makes you unique?
My name is Cylla Senii, and I am a storyteller. I love telling stories through acting, writing, and filmmaking. I absolutely love all things New York, and I love that I grew up in Georgia. I'm creative at heart, and once I relocated to NYC, I created, directed, produced, wrote, and starred in my first web series called Situationships. It's a fun show which highlights the millennial dating experience, and it's currently streaming on Blavity.
2. What motivates you?
My mother and my childhood self are major motivations. My mom always let me know that I could do anything I ever wanted and, at a young age, I always dreamed of being an actor and filmmaker. I never let that dream go, and that's what keeps me motivated and inspired.
3. Who is a hero of yours?
Oprah, Shonda, Ava, Issa...the list goes on!
4. Give us a road map of your career. How did you get to where you are today?
After I graduated from college, I worked at Bobbcat Films, a production company in Atlanta where I got my first introduction to working on a film set. It was an amazing experience. From there, I moved to New York, which was also a big dream of mine. I've worked at some of the leading advertising, journalism, and entertainment companies in the city. In my spare time, I've been working on the second season of Situationships, and I also produce and act in other web shows and projects that have a great message to share.
5. What's your future plan? Your goals?
Ultimately, I see the stories that I write and create going to television. I love writing, and I have several other shows that I plan to create. I also love collaborating with other creative people and producing their stories that inspire me as well.
6. If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be?
Be urgent when it comes to your goals and aspirations. If it's truly important to you, then why not go for it now? Your dreams are given to you for a reason, and it's important for you to share that vision with the world.
7. What is something you feel strongly about (a cause, belief, etc.)?
It's really important to me that there are really awesome art programs in schools and for students to be provided with the resources to pursue careers in that industry. When I have the proper funding, I plan to provide scholarships for students pursuing education in the arts or entertainment at my alma mater at the University of Georgia and beyond.
8. What's one of the coolest things you've ever done?
The coolest thing I ever got to do was go to the Beyonce "Mrs. Carter" tour for free! I got to be right at the stage, and my life has been blessed ever since.
9. Anything we haven't asked that you'd like to talk about.
Fun Fact: If I could have any superpower, I would either want to teleport or fly.
