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I'm
Taneish Leslie. I was born in St James, Jamaica,
grew up in Westmoreland, Jamaica and was raised by my grandparents.
At the age of twelve I moved to Toronto Canada with my
parents and my younger brother, that's when my life changed.
I had a rough childhood and with that said I was forced
to grow up a lot faster that most teenagers. I came across
the good, bad and ugly, I myself made a lot of foolish
mistakes and decisions that I am forced to live with
now for the rest of my life. Funnily enough I'm glad
all that was done within my teenage years, much appreciated
to all the lessons learned. They have made me
the Woman I am today.
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In Toronto I got into
back up dancing with a dance group called "kristylez" at
that time we were one of the best and most well known
dance group in Toronto. People would compliment me
on my dancing, my looks and also suggest that I consider modeling.
I then thought
I was attractive and talented enough to do both. When
I actually attempted modeling I went in not knowing
what to expect, rarely made any auditions and I noticed
the girls who always made the cut looked and carried
themselves a certain way (more like a woman) I was
still in the tomboy phase and my self-esteem dropped.
"I'll never forget what director LITTLE X once
told me."
Quote..."Always
be patient, it's just not your time. But it will happen,
just be patient." I've always been a very persistent
woman and I've always believed I can do and accomplish
anything I put my mind to no matter what. Doesn't really
matter how long it takes. I soon realized that all
the models from Toronto would move to the United States
once they got their Big Break or even a little bit
of exposure. I was also informed that all the modeling and acting
opportunities were better in the United States, and that I
would have to eventually move there at some point during
my career in order to be more successful.
I had a long conversation with my mother about
moving to Atlanta, Georgia to pursue my dreams
in modeling and acting, I began my research, and at age (19) i moved to Atlanta,
Georgia on my own with $500 in my pocket and a Dream. "My Dream!" It was the best and biggest move I have ever made in my life. My mother was very proud of me,
and most importantly I was proud of myself! It felt great to prove
everyone back home wrong some wanted me to fail and thought id never make it, that id be running home to mommy within a few weeks. It was the best decision I've made
in my life!
Of course
it was hard my first year alone in the states. Unfortunately,
I went through some serious up's and down's. But three years
later I'm still here, very much settled, trying
to get as much accomplished as I possibly can. I've had quite a few appearances as a "Back Up Dancer" in Video's, Film Directing, Choreography, event hosting, Modeling and the list goes on, i have a very bright future and with the help of the man above i'm going to be a success. Its also funny that alot of the people that said no to me back then are now blowing up all my e-mails.
Whether my journey takes a month,
year or ten years, this is the life and Industry I
choose. And I will do my best to make sure my goals
are achieved. To everyone out there especially models
HERE'S A BIT OF ADVICE. Keep your friends to a minimum!
It is important to learn the business before jumping
in "I can't stress that enough". Please,
watch out for the PRETENDERS!!! Always be positive
and learn to take constructive criticism. This will
help to better you as a person. INVEST in "YOURSELF".
Believe me its worth it and most of all LOVE YOURSELF
with all your heart because in the end you're all you
got.
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