Please meet Mohammed Junaid, he is a Model, Actor and Director in Toronto and represented by KG Talent. Check out our Q & A below:
As a child, did you want to be an actor, or did it fall into place through other activities?
I was the only child of my parents and had no siblings my parents wanted me to pursue a normal career. I remember my mom used to say that one day my son would work for a multinational company. In my whole family no one ever pursued acting. As a child I knew I wanted to do something great. It was later that I found out that the happiest I have ever been is when I am on set performing I just love it. I grew up watching movies, which stared Leonardo DiCaprio, Brad Pitt and Arnold Schwarzenegger. I always knew I wanted to do what they did its just that the older I have become this dream has become more stronger.
Who inspired you to follow your dream to pursue acting?
One day I saw a documentary about Arnold Schwarzenegger how he moved to America and became the biggest star of his time defying all odds how he was huge and even had a thick accent, how many Agents and Managers though it couldn’t be done. I told myself I have always had a similar dream so what do I have to lose I can’t lose this dream I have just found my real purpose and passion in life. I want to inspire others to achieve greatness to defy odds and to make this world a better place. I hope to inspire others into believing that no matter where you come from you can make this world a better place.
What challenges have you faced in the entertainment industry? What has been your most rewarding experience?
I believe when I landed my first Agent and he started sending me out for auditions it was during that time I didn’t knew other actors who could help me with self tapes or even practice my lines before an audition. I also struggled between jobs trying to find something flexible enough which allows me to make my days available for auditions. I suffered financially for a bit but then I was able to get through it just like everything else. With time my connections grew and I was able to utilize different areas of making money within the entertainment industry I do modeling, commercials and brand ambassador work as well. I designed a life that allows me to keep my days open for auditions and make decent money on the side. I guess one of my rewarding experiences would have to be when I got an Actor role on Suits.
What is your favourite type of character to play?
I would like to play characters from Marvel franchises I have always been inspired by super heroes and how they save our world from terror. I love Iron man, Batman, Spiderman, and Captain America. I do also like dark characters like Joker (Batman) and Loki (Thor)
What market do you currently work in? Are there other areas you would like to work?
I currently work in Toronto and I am represented by KG Talent, however I have travelled to NYC and have had few meeting with agencies. I am also looking to get representation in Los Angeles in the near future so that I can apply for an 0-1 visa which is for actors who are willing to work in the US market. I also do modelling, commercials and have started shooting my own projects so directing is another area I would like to capitalize in. As a model I have been punished in several magazines here in Canada and have a modeling agent as well.
What advice would you give to someone new trying to make it in the acting industry?
I believe the first and the most important thing is you have to love it. Theirs a lot of opportunity here in this city, network with follow actors, try to add your self to different casting sites I always recommend eBoss Canada, Casting Workbook and Actors Access. Get head shots from photographers land independent films and submit your self to agencies. Think of yourself as the CEO of your own business and be open to making some investments in areas such as quality head shots, casting website registrations and acting classes. Always have a long-lasting career goal in mind and remember you only lose when you give up.
Why, What fuels your passion?
Performing can be very powerful. Although it can be for entertainment and comedy, it can also be used to inspire people. When I watch inspirational movies, I love how there can be a message which you can gain from that can make you stop to reevaluate yourself or benefit you. For instance, when I watched the Pursuit of Happiness, Will Smith’s character struggled to get where he wanted. Even though it wasn’t a huge difference at the end of the movie, the audience knew things would get easier and he would eventually get to his goal. Through the struggle, he didn’t stop but persevered. I can use this in my own life as I know acting is not easy and there will be a lot of challenges along the way but I just need to keep on being determined and dedicated and I will eventually reach my goal.
What is something about you that most people would never guess
I am afraid of cats, I find it hilarious
If you were to do it all over again, would you do things exactly the same? Do you have any regrets? Successes that make you proud?
Yes, without a doubt. I would do it all over again. I have been very blessed to do what I love. Perusing acting is the best decision I have ever made. I enjoy all my successes and Failures. I know that I have a goal to accomplish and everyday I am working towards it. I would like to quote Steve Jobs “Your time is limited so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by Dogma, which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your ear and intuition.”
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mohammed_junaid77/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mohammed-Junaid-202315079867824/
Imdb: https://m.imdb.com/name/nm4357245/
