Performing Years
"I gained rhinoceros skin as a professional actress. The industry is full of rejection. Nonetheless, I learned a lot about myself and others along the way." -Destiny R. Jackson
From the ages of 7 to 15 years old, Destiny was a professional actress and model. From 2001-2003, Destiny filmed Gods and Generals, starred in Maryland State Lottery and United Way commercials, and was a presenter for the American Architectural Foundation and Black Engineer of the Year Awards. She also recorded educational videos for the Success For All Foundation and JDG Communications. Destiny earned membership into the nation's largest labor union, SAG-AFTRA, in 2005.
Theatre wise, Destiny performed at The Arena Stage, The John F. Kennedy Center, and the Shakespeare Theatre. She starred as Maretha in The Piano Lesson, Zonia in Joe Turner 's Come and Gone, and Clarence's child in Richard III. In 2006, Destiny filmed season 4 of HBO's television series The Wire, as the role Crystal Judkins.
In 2007, Destiny auditioned for the New York Film Academy, performing scenes from "Salome" and "Mulebone." During the audition, the director told Destiny that she was amazed by her performance, but she thought Destiny was a facade. Destiny kindly rejected NYFA's acceptance letter. This was a defining moment that showed Destiny to continue striving for excellence. She grasped the basic principle that their is no one besides G-d that is the gateway to her success and happiness.
Three years later, Destiny ranked as 1 out of 50 state finalists in the Miss Maryland Teen USA Pageant. She looked forward to beginning her academic journey as a successful college student.