By World Licence 
In the competitive world of cinema, Shanice Shantay represents a new generation of artists where authenticity and passion are intertwined with a profound sense of purpose. Originally from New Jersey, Shanice grew up often feeling out of place. However, it was on stage, during her first performance in Annie, that she found her voice. Playing the role of Pepper, she discovered the freedom of fully inhabiting a character. That simple but defining moment sparked a lifelong passion for performance.
Her career took a major leap forward when she landed a role alongside Queen Latifah, Mary J. Blige, and Ne-Yo in The Wiz Live!. “Starting my career on such a grand scale showed me that I belonged in this industry,” she reflects. Each subsequent project has enriched her, providing valuable lessons and deepening her love for art and storytelling.
Yet, the journey has not always been smooth. Shanice identifies her greatest challenge as staying authentic in a world that often celebrates conformity. Learning to embrace her own worth and remain true to herself has been a battle she has faced with resilience.
Her most recent role as Johnnie Mae in a Tyler Perry project perfectly showcases her ability to portray strong, dynamic characters. “Johnnie Mae is bold, fierce, and proves that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference. Plus, she’s hilarious!” Working with Perry was a meaningful experience for Shanice, who admires his kindness and faith.
For her, public recognition pales in comparison to the impact her performances can have on others. Participating in projects like 6888 aligns with her personal mission to use her art to inspire and uplift.
To aspiring artists, Shanice offers simple but profound advice: “Be yourself. What makes you unique is exactly what the world needs to see.” She firmly believes that each person’s mission is God-given, and following that calling is the key to success.
In addition to her acting career, she is preparing to release her first music this year, a project she has kept close to her heart. She also hopes to explore more comedy roles, a genre she deeply enjoys.
For Shanice Shantay, success is measured by living her divine purpose each day. “I’m here to do what God has planned for me, and then I’m out,” she jokes, adding that she hopes to be a light in the industry, guiding others toward love, faith, and the importance of cherishing one another.
With disarming authenticity and unshakable faith, Shanice Shantay is just beginning to write the story of a career destined to inspire generations.
Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to embark on this career?
What were your first motivations for entering the industry?
I grew up in New Jersey, as an only child. I never felt like I fit in and I was so in my head about who I was and what people thought of me for most of my childhood. But I remember my first musical (Annie). I played an orphan named pepper who most of the other orphans weren’t fond of, and even so, I was peper unapologetically! That was so freeing for me. I fell in love with performing .
What have been the milestones in your career so far?
Booking my very first audition! A lead role next to Queen Latifah, Mary J Blidge, Neyo, Stephanie Mills David Alan Grier, Elijah Kelly and other amazing artists in this industry. Coming. into the industry in that big of a way was a true sign i belong in this industry.
What moments or projects have particularly marked you?
Every opportunity i get grows me and teaches me lessons. The beautiful thing about being an artist is that you learn a lot even just from the stories you tell. I’ve learned so much about love, friendship, kindness, and perseverance.
What has been the biggest challenge you have had to overcome in your career?
Remaining Authentic. In a world of so many amazing people, i had to realise im one of those people and i need to stay true to who i am
You recently participated in a Tyler Perry project. Can you tell us more about it?
What was your role in Tyler Perry’s latest film?
I played Johnnie Mae ! She’s an outspoken, bold, strong minded woman who teaches us that no matter who you are, what your background is, or what you’ve been through you can make a difference in this world. And she’s pretty hilarious too!
What were your impressions of working with him and participating in such an important film?
He’s a genius in his own way. He’s also very compassionate. I never felt unsafe. I love that he has a strong faith. He prays at the start of the day, I love that too. I hope to be able to create a real friendship with him one day outside of business, simply because I can see he has a good heart.
What aspects of your job do you find most rewarding?
Is it the public recognition, the personal satisfaction, or the impact of your work?
It’s the impact on the people who watch. The Impact is everything to me. That’s why doing movies like the 6888 is so important to me.
How do you manage the pressure of your career and visibility?
Is it difficult to find a balance between your personal and professional life?
If you could give advice to someone who dreams of following in your footsteps, what would it be?
It’s all about purpose. The reason why my heart screams “I want to perform” is because I was created to. Whatever God puts in your heart to do is bigger than just you! Once I realised that I never doubted myself again. I’m simply on an assignment that is bound to get accomplished as long as I don’t quit!
What practical advice would you give to those starting out in the industry?
Just be yourself please! I’m a firm believer that all the things that make you uniquely you are all the things people want to see anyway!
Do you have any collaborations in the works or new projects that you are working on?
Most people don’t know I write music. This year, for real this time .. lol.. I will be releasing some of the music I’ve been keeping close to my heart. I admit it shouldn’t just be for me but for whoever needs it.
Are there any directions or genres you would like to explore in the future?
I truly enjoy making people laugh. I hope I can work on more comedy projects and in turn get to work with some of my favorite actors and comedians.
Finally, how do you define success, and how would you like to be remembered in your career?
I have a lot of life to live and who knows if this answer might change in the future but Success to be is walking in my purpose everyday and being able to do what i was created by God to do.
What mark would you like to leave on the film industry or in your field?
Honestly i’m just here to do whatever God has for me to do on this earth and then im out! I hope that one day people recognise me as a light in the industry. I hope that not only my art but my life leads people to God and to cherish one another.
