Today we’d like to introduce you to Holly Justice.
Hi Holly, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey has been anything but traditional, but I’ve learned that some of the most beautiful stories are the ones we never imagined we’d be telling.
My name is Tazia, although many know me professionally as Holly Justice or Holly Dream. I’m an actress, model, entrepreneur, community advocate, and, most importantly, a mother. Originally from Northern New Jersey, I eventually planted roots on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where much of my personal and professional growth has taken place.
My journey in entertainment began through modeling, which became so much more than a creative outlet. It became an opportunity to rediscover myself, embrace my individuality, and build confidence in spaces where I once questioned whether I belonged.
Holly Dream was born from that evolution. She wasn’t created to replace Tazia, but to represent the confidence and possibilities I was learning to recognize within myself.
As my passion for storytelling grew, I began pursuing acting more intentionally, eventually earning roles in film and theater productions including Misread, HYDE, No Way Back, Help Is On The Way and Bruised, while continuing to expand my modeling career through opportunities such as New York Fashion Week.
Beyond entertainment, I’m passionate about entrepreneurship, community empowerment, and creating opportunities that encourage others to recognize their potential.
Today, I’m incredibly grateful for how far I’ve come, but even more excited about where I’m headed. I’m still evolving, still learning, and still becoming the woman I once only imagined I could be.
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?
A smooth road? Absolutely not! (Laughs.) But I’ve learned that some of life’s most unexpected detours lead us to places we never imagined.
One of my greatest challenges has been learning to believe in myself, even when circumstances or the opinions of others made me question my worth.
I remember moving from New Jersey to Maryland in sixth grade. Being the new girl and trying to find my place was already challenging, but experiencing bullying made that transition even more difficult. I became insecure about things I had never questioned about myself before, and those feelings stayed with me longer than I care to admit.
What’s interesting is that some of the very features I once struggled to embrace are now things I genuinely appreciate about myself, especially in my modeling career. It’s amazing how differently we can see ourselves when we stop looking through the eyes of people who never truly knew us.
Of course, the challenges didn’t end there. Navigating an industry where appearance is constantly evaluated, learning to accept rejection without internalizing it, and balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and entertainment have all required sacrifice, patience, and resilience.
I’ve also experienced seasons when life required me to start over, rebuild my confidence, and redefine what success looked like for me.
But perhaps my greatest lesson has been understanding that resilience doesn’t mean being strong every single day. Sometimes it simply means finding the courage to try again.
My journey hasn’t been perfect, and neither am I. But I’ve learned that I don’t have to wait for perfect circumstances to pursue the life I envision for myself.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I consider myself a multifaceted creative, but at the heart of everything I do is storytelling.
As an actress and model, I’ve had the privilege of expressing that passion through film, theater, fashion, and visual storytelling. Modeling taught me how to communicate confidence and emotion without saying a word, while acting has challenged me to explore those same qualities on a much deeper level.
I’m particularly drawn to characters with emotional depth and complexity. I’ve had the opportunity to portray Kira in *Misread*, Detective Johnna Utterson in *HYDE*, Gia Pierce in *No Way Back*, and Ebony in the stage production *Bruised*. Each role has challenged me differently and strengthened my appreciation for the craft.
In fashion, I’ve worked with talented designers and creatives, including participating in New York Fashion Week. I understand that modeling isn’t simply about wearing beautiful clothing; it’s about interpreting a designer’s vision and creating a memorable experience for the audience.
Another meaningful opportunity was headlining Wellness in the Park, where I was able to combine my modeling experience with my background as a licensed esthetician and passion for helping others embrace their natural beauty.
What am I most proud of? Seeing the work I’ve invested in myself and my craft begin to speak for itself. There’s something incredibly humbling about being specifically requested, remembered, or trusted to bring someone’s creative vision to life.
But recognition will never outweigh my willingness to grow. I continue investing in my craft because I believe preparation, professionalism, and adaptability are essential to longevity in this industry.
What sets me apart is the intention I bring to every opportunity. I value collaboration, welcome constructive direction, and understand that every project is bigger than any one individual.
Ultimately, I want my work to speak for itself. I’m not interested in simply being seen. I want to be remembered for the quality of what I contribute.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Absolutely! I firmly believe that while the journey may be personal, success is rarely achieved alone.
First, I have to give my mommy her flowers. She is the woman who taught me what it looks like to NEVER give up. Through her example, I’ve learned that life may challenge you, redirect you, and sometimes even knock you down, but you always have a choice to get back up. Her strength, perseverance, and determination have influenced the way I approach my own challenges, and I carry those lessons with me every day.
My daughter, Gia, is one of my greatest motivations. She’s watching me pursue dreams that once seemed so far out of reach, and that means everything to me. I want her to know that she never has to place limitations on herself or allow her circumstances to determine what’s possible.
My Nana also deserves her flowers. Her love, encouragement, and unwavering presence have been such a blessing in my life. Having that kind of support is something I will never take for granted.
I also carry the love and influence of my late father, Sean Justice. Although he’s no longer here physically, he remains part of my foundation, and I hope the woman I’m becoming would make him proud.
Professionally, I want to give special recognition to Matthew Winstead, who gave me my first opportunity in film through *HYDE*, and Marissa D. Jackson, who opened the door to theater for me through *Help Is On The Way*. Both played an important role in the beginning of my acting journey, and I’ll always be grateful that they trusted me with those opportunities.
I also have to acknowledge my acting coach, Mark McKinnon of McKinnon Acting Studio. Mark has poured so much into my development as an actress, challenging me to dig deeper, strengthen my technique, and continue growing in my craft. He also captured my very first professional headshots, making him part of my journey both in front of the camera and in the classroom. Having someone who genuinely invests in your growth and pushes you to recognize your potential is invaluable, and I’m incredibly grateful for his guidance.
I’m equally appreciative of the directors, producers, designers, photographers, and fellow creatives who have shared their knowledge, encouraged my growth, and trusted me with their visions.
I may be the one standing in front of the camera or stepping onto the stage, but I know I didn’t get here alone. And for that, I’m truly grateful.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamhollydream/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamhollydream/
