Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Johnson.
Hi Taylor, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all began in my 3rd-grade class when I was given an assignment to write about Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech. The five paragraph essay sparked a lot of noise, granting me the opportunity to read it in front of my entire school. From there, I knew my purpose as a writer was to birth stories that were silenced and needed to be heard. Along my journey, I attended the illustrious South Carolina State University, a historically Black College and University. During my senior year, my hard work landed me a featured guest on Emmy nominated daytime talk show, “The Real.” As my success continued, I landed another featured guest spot on the T.D. Jakes talk show. These opportunities were the kickstart to my career. Later, I furthered my education to Full Sail University receiving my Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing. This experience helped to shape and mold me as a writer in ways that I could’ve never imagined. In 2021, I was honored HBCU Buzz Top 30 under 30. When people ask what’s my secret to success, my response is God. Without him, I wouldn’t have been able to accomplish any of these achievements. My family have been my biggest support system along this journey. I have them to lean on and push me.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I remember applying to my first screenwriting competition. My nerves were racing but I was so excited and hopeful. When the day came to announce the next advancements, I received an email stating that I didn’t make it to the next round. If you know me, and I mean really know me, you’d know that, I pushed even harder. I continued to write and perfect my craft. In 2022, I entered into another screenwriting competition with the same script. When it was time to announce advancements, my name was on the list. I became a Quarterfinalist for Screen Craft’s 2022 TV Drama Competition. I said all of that to say, never give up. Working in the entertainment industry has its challenges, but I am a firm believer that you can beat any obstacle that may come your way. Like most, I’ve experienced disappointment, but I never let those stumbling blocks stop me from reaching my goals. As an independent filmmaker, often times you’re limited with resources. This can set you back if you don’t map out a game plan to execute your wants and needs in creative spaces. While the road hasn’t always been smooth, every step has been worth it because eventually everything worked out in my favor.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Founded in 2017, Vir Madera Productions cultivates thought-provoking stories and authentic world-building across film, television and digital backgrounds. As the proud founder of this company, my purpose was to birth real, raw, and relatable stories for a diverse audiences. I want viewers to feel inspired and empowered through the content we create. We are known for coming-of-age stories that we present through multi-hyphenated genres. I believe that what sets us apart is, we aren’t located in major cities or states. We produce our work right here, in Orangeburg, South Carolina. While we may have had limited access to resources, my team and I worked together to make things happen. My proudest moment thus far has been the completion of my short film “Jump Ball”, which was released on YouTube and is almost at 100,000 view in less than 2 months. We started with 0 subscribers, so to watch it grow is amazing. The cast and crew of this film worked extremely hard at making this a success. Together, we had a blast on set. Every day is a reminder that the stories I tell are bigger than me. It’s for every underrepresented creative looking for hope. When you come from a small town, you realize that everything you’re doing goes beyond self. It’s bigger than me! There are a lot of great things in store for my company this year and all I can say is Orangeburg, South Carolina stand up!!!
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I’ve learned that anyone can have talent, but what takes you far is being genuine and staying true to who you are. A great characteristic to have is to simply be yourself. Whatever that may look like, whatever that may be, be who you were create to be. Live and operate in your truth. Next I’d have to say, be a go-getter and chase your dreams. I never compare my success or work-ethic to anyone else. I am a firm believer that you win by rooting for others. When you do the work, success will follow. My name has been in rooms that I would’ve never imagined this early in my career. When you’re good, success will find you. I’m a witness. Last, I would say stay prayerful and surround yourself around good company. No matter what’s happening in the world, what’s for you won’t pass you by.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @TaylorReeanna
- Facebook: @TaylorReeanna
- Twitter: @TaylorReeanna
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_mvrv7SrRU
- Other: www.instragram.com/virmaderaproductions
