SAHRA MELLESSE

Born in the birthplace of Hip Hop, I began my storytelling journey as a poet, using words as my primary form of self-expression. To keep me out of trouble, my mom enrolled me in a youth theater program in Harlem, where I discovered my passion for performing.

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This led to my first major role in the Sundance film Pariah, opening doors to collaborations with artists like George C. Wolfe and Dee Rees, as well as appearances on shows such as Law & Order: SVU, Cold Case, and a series regular role on the animated Speed Racer: The Next Generation.

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Behind the scenes, I've worked as Assistant to the Director of HBO's Bessie and served as Executive Assistant to the Head of Production of Queen Latifah’s production company, deepening my understanding of film and television development.

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With over 20 years of experience in various roles—Actor, Writer, Executive Assistant, Grip, Coordinator, and many more—I am deeply passionate about telling stories that authentically represent and empower voices from my community.