Naelis A. Ervin
Naelis A. Ervin is a multi-hyphenate creator based in the DMV area with over two decades of experience producing “edutaining” content for underserved and overlooked youth programs. Her love for all things film and television connected her to the Media Studies program at Pennsylvania State University and years later she attended Morgan State University where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Television Production.
With an extensive background as a Theatre Arts/Media Instructor and National Trainer, Naelis has worked effortlessly to refine the artistic practices of academic experiences in today’s learning institutions. Drawing from her foundation as a student in the New York City Public School System, Naelis collaborates with school leaders and classroom teachers to explore methods of arts integration within their communities.
“Her latest vessel for creating change has been through her organization, Creatyve Control, where she serves as the Founder and current Creative Director. The organization has become a beacon for its unique approaches to education, aiming to bridge cultural and academic divides through the power of the arts. Naelis remains deeply committed to fostering environments where imagination thrives and authentic self-expression is celebrated. The formula behind her rebellious teaching style and beliefs is fueled by the iconic Debbie Allen, the inspirational Angela Davis, and the imaginative Ms. Frizzle. It’s the perfect concoction of fearless innovation.”
Setting the stage for her own creative success, Naelis also enjoys curating experiences that activate voices and change. Her most recent creative contributions have been featured at Blerdcon 2023 (Black Noise, Panelist), Long Beach City College (1865 Showcase, Asst. Director), The 48-Hour Film Festival (Commissary Cuisine, Producer/Director), The Cosby Satires (Director/Choreographer) and a host of school-based productions including her well-noted annual Black History production of Fade To Black.
Through her journey as a creator, educator, and advocate, she continues to illuminate pathways for change, nurturing the boundless potential of young minds and amplifying voices of leaders. Join her on this quest to take sparks of curiosity and ignite them into new ideas for the world to embrace.