Artist Statement

What Fascinates Me

Ever since I was young I was fascinated by the power of stories. For me they opened up my world to exciting possibilities as well helped me feel less alone in the world. As I got older I saw how stories could create connections between people, birth movements and inspire social change.

Our Journey

Uncovering one’s true self is a divine journey. I continue to hone my spiritual practice to inform my creative practice in hopes of bringing to life work that moves people on a deep level and encourages them to connect with their true selves, seek out their purpose, and spark change in the world.

Why is this work so important? 

Our true selves are more than what we think. It’s more than our pursuits in life. It’s more than who are parents say we are or who society says we should be. Our identity is found knowing who we are in our creator. We aren’t just physical but also spiritual. Divinity lives within us. When we tap into that part of our identity, we uncover that which will fulfill us and bless others. In our current world system there is a lot of noise and distractions - I believe intentionally - to keep us from uncovering our true selves. That is why this isn’t work for the faint of heart. So if you go on this journey I consider you a hero. And our world needs more heroes.


Imagine a world where more and more people find their true selves and become bolder, more courageous, more loving, more empathetic. 

I hope to create space for your journey in my creative work.  Whether it’s through acting, content creation, TV and Film or Education I hope we can impact the world together. 

Peace 


About

 
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Dija Henry is an award winning film and stage actress, community advocate, filmmaker and author of I Dare You Not to Compare Yourself with Others. She holds a B.A. in Acting and Biomechanics from Purdue University and is a Masters Candidate in Social Practice Art the University of Indianapolis.

She has appeared in award winning projects such as Breathe (Chicago Multi-Cultural Film Festival winner), Love Jordan (Circle City Film Festival Selection) Healed by Grace (Dove Seal Award Winner), and Dress and Groom for Success (Telly Award Winner).

Dija is the Executive producer and founder of The Blue House which is a social impact entertainment company dedicated to telling diverse stories with mental health themes that facilitate heart changing conversation to elevate our culture to a more equitable, inclusive and empathetic society. Her films can be found on Amazon Prime and Vimeo on Demand.

Dija is of Jamaican and Indian descent, (Awagwan and Namaste!) raised with a global mentality and a sensitivity to cultural issues. As a descendant of Activists, Christian preachers and Hindu priests, she believes that serving others is part of her purpose here on earth.

For almost 20 years she has served in various capacities with The Felege Hiywot Center, an urban farm that uses STEM programming to teach leadership skills to at-risk youth. Dija has also served two Americorps terms with the immigrant and refugee service corps winning the Americorps Impact Award for her service of significance and impact in the city of Indianapolis, IN. Dija was recently invited by Mayor Fadness of Fishers, IN to  serve on the Racial Equity Committee Network.   

On her blog, Dija creates content around balancing her creative career with raising a multi-cultural family, living with M.S. and the intersection of faith, film and social justice.

FUN FACTS

  • You can most likely find me chowing down on: Curry Chicken and Palak Paneer.

  • You will most likely catch me grooving to: Lauryn Hill or Jill Scott.

  • My most impressive party trick: Coming to the party (I’m an introvert).

  • If I’m traveling anywhere I’d be: With my family on a beach and reading a book.

  • What I love about getting older is: Being more comfortable with saying “no”.

  • I want to travel to: See the great pyramids and Israel.

  • You might be surprised that I: Love doing cartwheels and have a degree in Biomechanics.

  • I secretly enjoy: Christmas movies.

  • You will catch me listening to: Sarah Jakes Roberts.

  • My amazon cart is always filled with: Books and tea.

  • One day I think it would be cool to: Live in another country.

  • One thing I have to do in 2024: Start a garden.

 

FAQ’s

How do I get started acting?

Great question! I would first find a local class that’s reputable. Acting actually has a technique and you don’t want to look like you don’t know what you’re doing. Acting also requires a different approach depending on the medium you are performing in. Getting in an acting class can also help you network and meet other creatives in your local industry. Tryout for community theater, student films or even start your own youtube channel to get used to different mediums of acting. Even though I have my Acting degree I still take classes. Right now I’m taking a writing class at Second City.

Who designed your website?

I designed my website using an online class from Station Seven. The class was very informative and easy to follow. I’m not sponsored by them. I truly found this class helpful.

Who takes your pictures?

I use a combination of stock photos from canva and I take my own photos with my iphone 11 pro or Canon t5i. I also used Tanisha Pinex of Prolific Visuals. She’s ah-mazing!

Have a question I didn’t answer?

Send me a note here and I’d be happy to answer your question or concern!