By Ana Juanola
Welcome to NYWIFT, Persia White!
Persia White is an actor, director, writer, visual artist, musician, and activist best known for her lead roles on Girlfriends and The Vampire Diaries.
A passionate filmmaker, she co-produced the award-winning documentary Earthlings, narrated by Joaquin Phoenix. Her directing work includes acclaimed music videos such as Vampire, NOLA, and Robot Love, earning international festival recognition. She has also produced and co-written award-winning short films for Russell Simmons and Ovation.
Persia co-founded Morgan White Productions with Joseph Morgan, and in 2026, Persia is launching Always and Forever, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting diversity and amplifying female voices in film, TV, and the visual arts.
NYWIFT Member Persia White
Could you give our readers a brief introduction to yourself?
I’m a filmmaker, actor, writer, visual artist, musician, director, and activist. Beyond that, I’m a mother, a wife, an animal lover, and a passionate vegan on this wild journey called life. I’m currently transitioning into a new chapter in my life.
What brought you to NYWIFT?
Last year, I moved to New York City because I am in love with this city and its undeniable creative heartbeat. I was born in Philadelphia and always wanted to come back to the East Coast and live in New York. As soon as I was able to, I made the leap.
I was thrilled to join NYWIFT because of the fantastic work they do for women and the opportunity it gives us to connect and support one another.
NYWIFT Member Persia White on GIRLFRIENDS
You work across acting, writing, directing, and music. How do these different forms influence one another?
I thrive on exploring the complexities of the human experience. All of my crafts, from acting to music, visual arts, and writing share the same mission: to connect the audience with an emotion. All my work collides beautifully when I allow them to softly play together.
Your work often focuses on socially relevant and inclusive storytelling. What draws you to these kinds of narratives?
Cinema and television are mirrors of society, they can also be catalysts for awareness, empathy, and change. I am driven by and inspired by stories that give us a chance to confront the things we find hard to talk about in our day-to-day lives.
I grew up feeling very alone. I didn’t see myself or hear my voice in mainstream media. I had to push hard to create a space to exist. I want to help do that for others.
How do you approach balancing visual style with emotional depth in your projects?
My visual style is always born from emotion. What fear or love looks like can differ drastically depending on the perspective of the character feeling it. Emotions come first, and I let them guide the visuals. Colors, lens, movement, and sound are built around the story and the emotions inside of it.
What is a lesson you learned the hard way in your career that you wish you had known earlier?
I wish I had thicker skin when I was young and knew not to take everything so personally. I shed so many tears over things I had no control over. It’s so important to brush negative energy off and to protect your heart. Fill your space with those who make you feel love.
Looking ahead, what kinds of stories or impact are you most excited to continue exploring?
I am on a mission to create films and art that inspires people. I am an activist at my core, and I align my energy with purpose. I have stories that only I can tell, and I can’t wait to share them with the world.
Currently, I have written three feature film scripts, a TV pilot, and two mixed-media art projects that I’m just starting to take to market. I can’t wait to fill them with talented creatives from around the world, and of course, I am so excited to work with fellow members of the incredible NYWIFT!
Connect with Persia on Instagram at @misspersiawhite, through her website morganwhiteproductions.com, and listen to her music at persiawhitemusic.com. Persia White is represented by Untitled Management.
(All photos courtesy of Persia White)
Ana Juanola
Ana Juanola is a Mexican filmmaker and producer focused on developing and producing culturally resonant, character driven stories from unexpected perspectives. Her work spans short films, music videos, and commercial projects, with production experience across major creative hubs including New York, Mexico, and California. She brings a strong editorial sensibility and a deep commitment to socially conscious storytelling.
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