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Leesa Rowland is a well-recognized actress, author, and advocate for animal welfare. She was born and raised in Texas, and after moving to Los Angeles to pursue her acting career, she made her way to New York City where she opened her nonprofit animal welfare organization Animal Ashram.
She has been involved in many successful acting roles throughout her life, and she is the author of the self-empowerment books Discovering the It Factor within You and The Charisma Factor. Leesa does not define herself by any singular pursuit, but she has a wide range of interests and likes to focus on projects and missions in different areas, especially ones that advocate for the welfare of others, whether it be people or animals.
Leesa intends to continue her work in film across a broad range of topics, writing, and animal welfare not only on the East End, but globally. She spoke more about her background, some of the projects that have been most meaningful to her, especially Animal Ashram, and what she looks forward to next.
Can you discuss your background and how you got your start in writing, acting, beginning your nonprofit, and all your other pursuits?
LR: I grew up in Austin, Texas, and went to college in Lubbock at Texas Tech where I studied broadcast journalism and theater and was a member of Fashion Board. After college, I moved to Los Angeles, California, where I studied at the famed Stella Adler Conservatory in Hollywood. I began acting there in commercials, films, and television. I also began rescuing dogs and cats and advocating for animals with the West Hollywood nonprofit group Last Chance for Animals. Years later, I moved to New York City and started my own nonprofit animal welfare called Animal Ashram in 2012. I continued my acting career and wrote my first book Discovering the It Factor within You. I wrote another self-empowerment book a couple years ago titled The Charisma Factor. It’s about how you’re taught many skills in school and in life, but you’re not taught how to put everything all together and that is where my book wholeheartedly comes in to help.
Do you have any favorite acting roles you have portrayed?
LR: I enjoyed my role as a wife and mother working with colorful costars Ludacris, Shaquille O’Neal, Cindy Margolis, Joey Fatone, Arielle Kebbel, and Carrot Top in Orlando in 2007 on the rap comedy movie The Bros.
How have your focuses shifted as time has gone on and the world around us has changed?
LR: I have many varied interests, however, I try to concentrate on one project at a time whether it is for the animals, film and television, or writing.
Can you discuss your book The Charisma Factor? What was the inspiration and the main message you hope readers take away?
LR: The Charisma Factor: Unlock the Secrets of Magnetic Charm and Personal Influence, explores the concept of charisma and how it can be developed and utilized to improve personal and professional relationships.
By learning these lessons from The Charisma Factor, you can develop your own magnetic charm and personal influence, leading to more meaningful connections and greater success in both personal and professional spheres.
Can you discuss Animal Ashram and why you began this organization?
LR: Animal Ashram is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting compassion, kindness, and protection for all animals. I began the group to rescue dogs and cats off of Manhattan’s Animal Care and Control euthanasia list that goes out every night to rescue centers around the area. We also advocate for farmed animals and animals used in experiments.
What would your main message or biggest advice be to others hoping to make a difference?
LR: Every movement begins with a single step. Focus on making a positive impact in your local community or in a specific area that resonates with you. Remember, making a difference is a marathon, not a sprint. Every effort counts and collective action can lead to significant positive change.
Do you have any upcoming projects you’d like to discuss?
LR: I am currently working post-production on a documentary I shot earlier this summer in Capilla Del Monte, Argentina. It is about the town, its people, their spiritual beliefs, and what they have seen in and around their area. Capilla Del Monte is becoming widely known to be a vortex of extraterrestrial activity.
What are some of the areas you’re most passionate about in your work or daily life?
LR: I will always fight for and speak up for animals whether they are factory farmed, pets in the need of rescue, or animals being experimented on. I will always be their voice.
What do you love most about the East End and how do you hope to make an impact on this community specifically?
LR: I love the East End’s unique blend of luxury, culture, arts, and natural beauty. I love to get involved with animal welfare organizations and creative groups.
Can you discuss your affiliation with the East End and the Hamptons?
LR: I have been involved in many various animal nonprofit groups in the Hamptons and love to support other organizations in the arts and entertainment there as well.
What would your personal mission statement be?
LR: My mission is to inspire compassion, creativity, and connection in the world. I am dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of animals, fostering artistic expression and appreciation, and nurturing meaningful relationships with others. Through my actions, I strive to spread kindness, empathy, and joy, and to leave a lasting legacy of love and beauty.
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