Kareem Amado is a multifaceted entrepreneur and performing artist with a career spanning over two decades. With an extensive background in dance, modeling, and acting, he has established himself as a highly skilled and versatile talent in the entertainment industry.
As a dancer, Kareem Amado has had the benefit of over 20 years of training, which has enabled him to refine his craft and develop a unique style that has captivated audiences worldwide. In addition to his performance experience, he has also worked as a teaching artist for over 15 years, sharing his knowledge and passion for dance with students of all ages and skill levels.
Kareem Amado’s modeling career, which began approximately four years ago, has seen him sign with reputable agencies such as Dynasty Models and Talent in Boston and Elever 1 in Germany. This has led to numerous opportunities, including walking in prominent fashion events like New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week. His acting career, also spanning four years, has allowed him to collaborate with notable figures like Mike Epps, Dakota Johnson, and Jenna Ortega.
In addition to his performance and modeling work, Kareem Amado is also a successful entrepreneur. As the co-founder of Rhythm Addict TV, an East Coast dance media company, he has been instrumental in promoting the work of talented dancers and choreographers. He has also hosted various shows, including Rhythm Addict TV, Juice 93.7, and the Positive Pathways Podcast, where he has interviewed prominent figures in the entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Kareem Amado has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and evolve, seamlessly transitioning between different fields and disciplines. His dedication, passion, and natural talent have earned him a reputation as a skilled and captivating performer, as well as a savvy and innovative entrepreneur. As he continues to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues, Kareem Amado remains an exciting and compelling figure in the world of entertainment and beyond.
Hi Kareem! How did you get your start in the entertainment industry?
I got my start in the industry when I made the decision to move to New York City when I was 18 years old. Five months after moving to New York, I landed an internship at Interscope Records and promoted artists: Mary J Blige, 50 cent, Common, and etc.
What led you to choose this career path? What makes your story unique?
Ever since I could remember, I was drawn to the entertainment and performing arts world. I was always in extra curricular activities that involved dancing, singing, and acting. My mother and grandfather saw that I had a natural born talent and they put made it a priority to put me in classes to cultivate those talents. Those dreams that I had as a young boy never left me and I was determined to see them come true.
My story is unique because it’s a story of hardship, struggle, redemption, and fulfillment. It shows people that even when they count you out or people abandon you, you can make it with God. I used the hate and the odds stacked up against as fuel to go after my dreams and not give up. I stand here today fulfilled and blessed to actually be working for myself and doing what I love. My story gives hope to others who are struggling or don’t have connections to change their situation that if you put yourself out there, eventually your big break will come.
What was the first modeling gig that you landed? What do you find rewarding about modeling?
The first modeling gig that I had was actually by accident, believe it or not. At the time, I wasn’t even pursuing modeling, I was pursuing a career in dance and had just started hosting Rhythm Addict TV. I was stopped on the streets of New York one day and was asked if I wanted to be in a magazine (Time Out NYC). I was offered the opportunity to have a one page spread on my style and a full article on their website on what inspires my style choices. It was a true gift from God. That one magazine feature opened a lot of doors for me and opened my eyes to the possibilities of not just being a dancer or a host, but a model too.
Being a dancer is not easy. How much practice do you do to keep your skills on point?
Well, when I used to dance, I would dance everyday since I was lucky enough to live in an apartment building that had a dance studio in it. Dancing was everything to me – back then, I had a gig to work at a prestigious dance school and because I worked there, I could take free classes. Now, I just make dance videos here and there for my social media, but my focus these days are elsewhere.
You are also an actor. What was the first role that you landed?
My first acting role was for a short film called New York Fairy Tale. I had seen a posting at the dance studio that I worked at for a male dancer, so I took a leap of faith and went an auditioned for the role, and to my surprise, I landed the role. I was the only African-American in that movie, by the way. A few months later, the movie premiered at the East Village Theatre in Lower Manhattan and made it all the way to the Newport Film Festival. You truly never know what will happen when you choose the path of following your dreams!
Apart from the entertainment industry, you are also a minister. How did that come about?
Yes, so aside from the other hats that I wear, I am an ordained minister and that came about when I had left the entertainment industry for a brief moment in time and re-dedicated my life to Jesus. I had almost lost my life in a car accident, and God gave me a second chance at life. When I tell you nothing was the same after that, nothing was the same. I started to take my spiritual life seriously and give my all to seeking God and discovering my true purpose. I was led to get my ministers license and devote my time to volunteer work and philanthropy.
Do you have any role models or influences that have guided your journey?
Yes, I’ve been blessed to have so many mentors throughout my journey, honestly too many to name. I’m very grateful to God for blessing me with people who I can get counsel from and lean on for support. At 19 years old, I enrolled in a mentorship program, and I was able to learn from the best in my industry. That’s when I learned the importance of having the right mentor and influences in your life.
What words of advice do you have for people with similar aspirations?
If you’re chasing dreams in entertainment, fashion, or entrepreneurship, my advice is to stay true to yourself and be fearless. Don’t be afraid to take risks and learn from your mistakes. Surround yourself with people who support and inspire you. And most importantly, keep God first and stay prayed up.
What are some of your goals for the future?
I’m really excited about the future. Some of my goals include traveling, learning new skills, and starting my own business. I’d love to explore different cultures and meet new people. Overall, I’m looking forward to seeing where life takes me and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way.
Any other things or upcoming projects that we should currently be on the lookout for from you?
I’m currently filming a movie which will be released some time next year. I have a few projects. As for other upcoming projects, I’ve got a few collaborations in the pipeline that I’m not quite at liberty to discuss just yet. Let’s just say that I’m teaming up with some incredibly talented people and we’re working on something really special. I’m hoping to be able to announce more details about those projects in the coming months, so stay tuned for that. For now, I’m just trying to stay focused and enjoy the journey. It’s an exciting time, and I feel grateful to have such amazing opportunities on the horizon.
Where can we follow you on social media?
LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amadomiio888
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amaredeus
Facebook fan page: https://www.facebook.com/Amadomiio
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/RhythmAddictTV
Website: https://www.kareemamado.com
Before you go, let’s ask you some random questions:
What is your favorite food?
My favorite food would have to be seafood and mac & cheese.
What is a place that you would like to travel to and live one day?
The place that I would like to live and travel to one day is Leon, Spain. My ancestry line is from there.
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
