Today we’d like to introduce you to Zoe Vatekeh.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Wow! Great question. I have been a dancer all my life and then transition into acting. My background is in theatre; from there, I crossed over to film. How my book came about is quite funny. I originally started writing a curriculum outline to do workshops on set etiquette and how to be a stand-in. Over time, I eventually turned it into a book. I wanted to educate others on how to get into the film industry. It meant a lot to me for everyone to have a reference in their hand while on set. So, I converted the outline into a how-to book. I eventually resigned from my 9-5 in the medical field to do this full-time. So I am a full-time actress, author, dancer, and model.
Below is a biography I put together. It helps give you a sense of me:
ZOE VATEKEH continues to hone her craft in film, theatre, and dance. She obtained her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with an emphasis in Theatre and Visual Arts & Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Savannah State University both with Cum Laude. While remaining on the pulse of the community, she teaches and mentors in Hip-Hop, African, and Modern dance workshops. She also volunteers at the local library, which helps her build her relationship with the youth. In addition, Ms. Vatekeh also coaches Hip-Hop and R&B artists with their stage presence in her artist development program. Behind the scenes, she initially worked as a stage manager for the Savannah Community Theatre, PAC Savannah, Asbury Methodist Church and Savannah State University to name a few and as crew for various film production companies in the southeastern. This young lady hardly stops working on her craft at heart. She recently published her first book and workbook, Stand Out While Standing In, to help and educate stand-ins on set. Her most recent television credits included a reoccurring role on “Clean Slate”. In essence, Ms. Vatekeh loves her craft and wouldn’t give it up for anything in the world She will always be thankful for her friends and family for all their support in her endeavors.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been fairly smooth?
My childhood was decent coming up. I grew up with both parents, and it was a little strict. My family is from West Africa, Liberia, so the culture differed. I was bullied and picked on in school because of my name and how I spoke. It was nothing of how children are today currently. I didn’t allow that to affect my studies. I was always an overachiever in school; failing wasn’t an option in our household. I received honor roll and high honor roll the majority of the time. In college, I was on the Dean’s and President’s Lists. I graduated Cum Laude with both degrees. While writing my outline for my workshop, my mom became ill and passed away. During my grieving time, I didn’t want to continue. I converted it into a book with encouragement from my friends and family. I am proud to have published the book and workbook titled Stand Out While Standing In.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am proud to have versatility in the film industry. I have been a production assistant, Stand- In, Hair Assistant, and health and safety covid-19 officer on set. I wear many hats. I am a hard worker and love to be well-rounded. I grew up doing hospitality and retail in my younger days. I did 10 years in the medical field and 8 years in dentistry. What sets me apart is my resilience and task completer skills. It takes a lot for me to give up.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some changes you expect to see over the next five to ten years?
I see a shift with movies theater decreasing and a lot of movies headed straight to streaming services. So that is different from before.
Pricing:
- Workshops start at $150
- Books starts at $20
- T-shirts start at $20
- Journal starts at $12
- Workbook $8.99
Contact Info:
- Website: www.zoevatekeh.com
- Instagram: itiszoenotzoey
- Facebook: Zoe Vatekeh
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@zoevatekeh6054
- Imdb: https://www.imdb.com/
name/nm12634849/?ref_=ext_shr_ lnk -
Available for sale at Barnes & Noble Hardback version:
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Available for sale at Barnes & Noble Workbook version:
Image Credits
Amy Josh, Anthony Paderewski, Qiyanna Evans
