Today we’d like to introduce you to Sasha Del Valle.
Hi Sasha, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I knew that I wanted to leave a positive and long-lasting influence in the world from very early on. I began my career at the age of 12 dancing salsa and traveling globally with my dance troop. I loved the art of dance and thrill of performing. Over time, the love of the two eventually led me into modeling, acting, and more recently production.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Being a Latina woman in a male-dominated industry has certainly presented its share of challenges. Although we are undoubtedly experiencing a culture shift and seeing more black and brown women being embraced for their talent in the film and production industry, it definitely hasn’t been an easy feat to break down those walls.
In many cases, people don’t take women seriously; especially not women of color. When dealing with executives in power, we face everything from unequal pay, an overall lack of belief in our ability to get the job done, and the assumption that because we’re women, we’re not as strong or qualified as our male counterparts.
We need more women behind the camera and not just in front of it! We have so much to offer and can handle heavy equipment just as well as the best of them! I would like to be a part of that change and create a safe space for other women.
While running my production company Overtime Productions, I have had to wear many hats. I have learned everything from shooting, editing, and show running. Therefore, I’ve made it my personal mission to break down some of these stigmas and empower women. We can handle anything that is presented to us.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m an Actress, Host, Dancer, Showrunner, and Publisher. I specialize in Production. I love creating content that the culture wants to see. I’m known for being in front of the camera. I starred in a movie with 50 Cent called “Before I Self Destruct”, two seasons of Wild N Out with Nick Cannon and I’m also the co-host of a cooking show titled “Chopping It Up with Oakley ” currently airing on Fox Soul. I am proud of all of my work. My mission is to encourage and motivate the people to go out there and get it!
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My goodness, there are so many to name! The first who comes to mind would have to be my dance instructor Griselle Ponce. Griselle played a major part in my early career and has continued to be an influential part of my life. Dance is an integral part of my culture. It has allowed me the opportunity to perform and teach on a global level. The instruction and foundation that I received from Griselle is what initially opened the door for me; allowing me to showcase my talent in the entertainment industry.
Dancing is really what led to my acting career. I believe that there is always a divine order to things. Each level of your life leads you to the next. In 2009, I had the wonderful opportunity to star in the film: “Before I Self Destruct” alongside Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson who was a major part of where I am today. I loved feeding off of his energy on set. He was a great support. That film is what really opened the door into acting for me.
Nick Cannon has also been a major influence in my career. Working with him on two seasons of WildNOut was a blast! That experience increased my desire to keep landing further TV roles; One of which is the hit cooking series on Fox Soul called “Chopping it Up with Oakley.” The series stars the NBA basketball legend Charles Oakley with whom I had the pleasure of co-hosting the show with.
My producing partner Roberto Rush Evans has been a major influence in my career. He has been tremendously encouraging and supportive and because of his support I had the courage to launch and grow my production company OverTime Productions.
I would also have to mention Heddrick Mc Bride of McBride stories. Heddrick and I have a collaboration of children’s books that focus on many of the issues that children face in today’s society. Our first publication “I Know my Rights” is currently an Amazon #1 bestseller, followed by “Different But The Same.” Heddrick was extremely influential in encouraging me to launch my own publishing company 12 and Under.
Our third and upcoming book release “Kid Champs” features Nore and DJ Effen from the popular podcast “Drink Champs” and will be available just in time for the Holidays.
Contact Info:
- Email: sasha.delvalle@gmail.com
- Website: 12andunderbooks.com
- Instagram: @sashadelvalle
- Other: www.forusbyusnetwork.com
