Today we’d like to introduce you to Anissa Stewart.
Hi Anissa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
If I could talk to my younger self, I would tell myself, “It’s going to happen…” It would tell her that, because growing up in NY, I was creative and a dreamer. I would often dream of becoming a singer, and I also loved pretending to be a schoolteacher. I would record myself singing songs and acting out skits with my friends and cousins on my tape recorder. I sang my first church solo in my grandfather’s church when I was 8years old, making up some of the words as I went along. In my neighborhood, my friends and I would play school, pretending to be the bus drivers on our bikes, driving our students to school, and then teaching our classes.
I would say it’s going to happen because it did! I am currently an Independent Gospel Artist with 2 CD projects available on various digital outlets and have shared the stage with various Gospel artists. I have also made an appearance on “Voices of Fire”, available on Netflix. I also sing for various events and services. Another manifestation of my dream is being blessed to act in 17 stageplays and 8 independent films and counting. And, I am just getting started.
When I am not acting and singing, I am in the classroom for real! I have been a Public School Teacher for 28 years, and counting, impacting the lives of over 5,000 students and counting. I have taught in Colorado, Las Vegas, and currently in Maryland. I am proud of the fact that I finally won a DWAP “Educator of the Year” Award in 2025.
However, one of my greatest accomplishments is the fact that I have been married for 33 years and a mother to 2 handsome sons (ages 30 and 13). My husband and family have been my biggest supporters.
How am I able to accomplish all of this, one might ask? My abilities, talents, and blessings come from my relationship with God. I am also an Evangelist and a Praise and Worship Leader, as well. “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me” – Philippians 4:13
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has not been easy. Anything worth fighting for is not going to come easy. I had to deal with many challenges along the way. My family and I dealt with homelessness. I also had to deal with the loss of both my parents and financial challenges along the way.
As an artist, I have wanted to sing professionally since I was a little girl. I wrote songs and chased after dead-end opportunities with independent labels. I have felt overlooked and still go through feelings of being insignificant. However, a door opened for me to create my own CD project, which we created in 8 months. God did not open the door for my singing and acting until I turned 42 years old and after. Today I am in my mid 50’s.I want to reach a higher level than where I am now. However, I hope to make connections that will allow me to accomplish my goals. As a teacher, every day has its challenges and rewards for 28 years. But the positive response and the good rapport that I have had with students and colleagues have helped me along my journey.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In 2010, was when I performed in my first stageplay. I have always wanted to perform in Gospel stage plays. I have been able to sing my original songs in many of the stage plays I have performed in. I have not only performed and sang in stage plays, but I have also had the privilege of directing and performing as a script consultant.
One thing that I am very proud of is the opportunity that I had to audition for Pharrell and Ezekiel Williams’ “Voices of Fire” in 2019. My family and I drove 4 hours twice a week for the filming of the show. I was selected to lead a song with the choir when we performed the concert at Chrysler Hall. That was one of the greatest accomplishments in my singing career.
I also perform through a platform called “Gigsalad”. I am proud of the fact that I have been awarded “Top Performer” status with the company. I am grateful for all the opportunities that I have been afforded.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to always be in a position to remain teachable and flexible. Divine connections and networking contributed to my sucesses that I have had. My teaching career came into existence because my aunt encouraged me to apply. And the rest is history!
The acting and singing career has been as successful because of the networking that I have done. It is beneficial to always keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities. Be flexible and intergrel because that will open doors for you. Be willing to put in the work.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @anissastewartmusic
- Facebook: Anissa Stewart
- Twitter: Anissa Stewart
- Youtube: Anissa Stewart
