This is Nailah.
Nailah comes from a Filipino mother and a black father from Maryland. She moved to California back in 2016 for a job opportunity and hasn’t left since. She has been working in the film industry for the past few years and started booking stunt jobs, which is her true career path.
Growing up, Nailah remembers spending a lot of time in the outdoors with her friends.
“I remember my best friend took me to Sugerloaf Mountain in Maryland and we climbed all the way to the top to see the view of a bright green field. It was such an awesome hike and made me want to explore more. Moving to LA made it easier, as hiking is such a social thing to do here. But as I started discovering more hidden and unknown trails, I began hiking a lot more on my own.”
Here in California, she enjoys going hiking, backpacking, and most importantly, practicing her martial arts. A lot of her outdoor photos on her social media is of her training and posing with her weapons.
She also just recently got her drone license as well! Something that can lead her to break barriers in her industry.
“You don’t see women, especially women of color, operating and flying drones on sets. They’re always men.”
Recognizing that was what motivated Nailah to get her certification and start taking drone gigs. It also has also encouraged me to look into getting a certification as well! But it’s no joke. Nailah had to do lots of studying and practice courses before she passed her certification.
As for all of her outdoor experiences, Nailah admits that it can be scary at times.
“It gets scary hearing stories of getting kidnapped, harassed, or lost during their travels. I don't really know how to change these scenarios but it does make me more cautious and do more research about where I am going so I am prepared.”
But other than that, she has always felt comfortable and has had mostly positive interactions with people in the outdoors.
“I feel included in my own way as I mostly explore alone or with friends. I don't go to resorts. I prefer hidden gems.”
It gives me hope when I hear that individual BIPOC’s can have more positive experiences in the outdoors than negative. Something I wish for all people of color!
For Nailah the outdoors will always be a place of peace for her.
“It's a chance for me to think and be alone with nature. Or when I am hiking with my friends, it’s a chance for us to be alone with each other without other distractions... I think it plays more of a role in my life as I live in the busy city of LA. So getting out into nature gives me that away time from the hustle and bustle.”
If nature has taught her anything, it’s to always be prepared, be aware of your surroundings, and have fun!