Name: La Faye Baker
Title/Company: Stunt Expert and Founder at Diamond in the RAW Organization
Industries: Entertainment & Non-profit
Chapter: West Los Angeles, California
Contact: stntdva@gmail.com or (323) 974-8292 or visit her website!
Q: Tell us something about yourself, La Faye. You are part of the West LA Chapter. Where do you live?
A: I am a native to the City of Angels. I'm born and raised in Los Angeles and have always lived here. I attended CSULB for undergrad, I completed UCLA for Film, Television, Digital and Entertainment Certificate program and received my MBA from University of Miami. I'm a professional actress and stunt woman, even though my start was in collegiate gymnastics.
Q: What is one thing everyone should do at least once in their lifetime?
A: Be a daredevil. The riskiest stunt I've ever done was when I was featured in a Camaro commercial in Denver. I had to face altitude sickness while following a camera car at speeds up to 30 mph with no guardrails. It took extreme concentration!
Q: Did you choose your profession, or did it choose you?
A: I completely stumbled into my profession. I had no background in entertainment. Although I have always had a toe in ancillary fields. I used to travel for the Guinness World Records for hula hooping which piqued my interest in learning more about film. I used to be a probation officer, but resigned in 2017, while working in entertainment to embrace my full creative side.
Q: It's the 4th Quarter of 2021. What goal are you working on now?
A: I'm always trying to leave a legacy as an African American female trailblazer, and want us to change the balance of gender and race in stunts and the entertainment industry. I also am trying to grow my new brand in stuntwomen activewear. Feel free to check it out here (www.Stuntwomen.Shop). Finally, I'm producing my 11th Annual Stuntwomen Award Show, (Sunday March 20, 2022, honoring Stuntwomen, A-list Action Sheroes and Extreme Sport’s Enthusiasts (www.actioniconawards.com)
Q: What do you like to do when not working?
A: My focus is working with my non-profit that empowers teen girls through the arts, called DiamondintheRaw.org. We work with teen girls to help them produce short films, podcasts, acting, and learn stunt activities during summer. I also believe in pampering the mind, the body, and soul. Embrace creativity!
Q:How does your work connect you to The W Source network?
A: As you can see with my projects, I've always had an interest in giving back and working with women. The W Source gave me an option to expand my horizons outside of the box.
Q: What else would you like W Source members to know about you?
A: I'd love W Source members to connect with me to learn more about my work with teen girls and see if they could get involved or support. I'm working on a book that addresses mental health issues and tools to process the difficult parts of life. Finally, I want to remind all women that anything is possible. Be brave and take risks!
Our Mini Member Spotlight series was created for you to meet the many amazing women who make up The W Source™.
If you are a current member and would like to be nominated for a future spotlight or know someone who could benefit from connecting with The W Source™, please contact us for more information!