Artist Statement
Storytelling has always been my compass. As a child, stories opened my world and made me feel less alone. Over time, I came to understand their deeper power: stories can build bridges, spark movements, and inspire lasting change. That understanding has shaped the heart of my work.
I’m a multi award-winning filmmaker whose work has been shown on international screens. For over 20 years, I’ve developed and taught arts programming for underserved youth. For the past decade, I’ve created narrative films that amplify the missions of nonprofits, using story as a tool for social impact. I’ve served two terms with AmeriCorps and was honored to receive the Impact Award in 2020 for my work in community engagement. I also hold a Master’s in Social Practice Art specializing in Social Impact Entertainment.
At the intersection of creativity, spirituality, and service, I create work that invites people to reconnect with their true selves. Whether through film, performance, or education, I aim to cultivate spaces for reflection, healing, and transformation—because I believe that awakened individuals create thriving communities.
While it has been a true honor to support nonprofits in their vital work, I’m now entering a new chapter—one where I explore stories that are more personal. As a mother raising a multicultural family, the adult child of immigrants, someone living with an invisible disability, and a woman navigating a deep spiritual awakening, I feel called to bring these lived experiences to the screen.
Though deeply personal, these stories carry universal themes—identity, resilience, belonging, and freedom—and I believe they can spark meaningful dialogue and connection across communities.
This next phase of my work is about reclaiming voice, honoring lived experience, and offering narratives that reflect the quiet, complex courage it takes to be fully seen. With support from this grant, I hope to bring those stories to life.
Peace.
About
Dija Renuka is an award winning film and stage actress, community advocate, filmmaker and author of I Dare You Not to Compare Yourself with Others. She holds a B.A. in Acting and Biomechanics from Purdue University and a Masters in Social Practice Art the University of Indianapolis.
She has produced and directed award winning projects such as Breathe (Chicago Multi-Cultural Film Festival winner), Love Jordan (Circle City Film Festival Selection) Healed by Grace (Dove Seal Award Winner), and Dress and Groom for Success (Telly Award Winner).
Dija is the Executive Producer and founder of Blue House Entertainment which is a social impact entertainment company dedicated to telling diverse stories with mental health themes that facilitate heart changing conversation to elevate our culture to a more equitable, inclusive and empathetic society. Her films can be found on Amazon Prime and Vimeo on Demand.
Dija is of Jamaican and Indian descent, (Awagwan and Namaste!) raised with a global mentality and a sensitivity to cultural issues. As a descendant of Activists, Christian preachers and Hindu priests, she believes that serving others is part of her purpose here on earth.
For almost 20 years she has served in various capacities with The Felege Hiywot Center, an urban farm that uses STEM programming to teach leadership skills to at-risk youth. Dija has also served two Americorps terms with the immigrant and refugee service corps winning the Americorps Impact Award for her service of significance and impact in the city of Indianapolis, IN.
On her blog, Dija creates content around balancing her creative career with raising a multi-cultural family, living with M.S. and the intersection of faith, film and social justice.
FUN FACTS
You can most likely find me chowing down on: Curry Chicken and Palak Paneer.
You will most likely catch me grooving to: Lauryn Hill or Jill Scott.
My most impressive party trick: Coming to the party (I’m an introvert).
If I’m traveling anywhere I’d be: With my family on a beach and reading a book.
What I love about getting older is: Being more comfortable with saying “no”.
I want to travel to: See the great pyramids and Israel.
You might be surprised that I: Love doing cartwheels and have a degree in Biomechanics.
I secretly enjoy: Christmas movies.
You will catch me listening to: Sarah Jakes Roberts.
My amazon cart is always filled with: Books and tea.
One day I think it would be cool to: Live in another country.
One thing I have to do in 2024: Start a garden.
FAQ’s
How do I get started acting?
Great question! I would first find a local class that’s reputable. Acting actually has a technique and you don’t want to look like you don’t know what you’re doing. Acting also requires a different approach depending on the medium you are performing in. Getting in an acting class can also help you network and meet other creatives in your local industry. Tryout for community theater, student films or even start your own youtube channel to get used to different mediums of acting. Even though I have my Acting degree I still take classes. Right now I’m taking a writing class at Second City.
Who designed your website?
I designed my website using an online class from Station Seven. The class was very informative and easy to follow. I’m not sponsored by them. I truly found this class helpful.
Who takes your pictures?
I use a combination of stock photos from canva and I take my own photos with my iphone 11 pro or Canon t5i. I also used Tanisha Pinex of Prolific Visuals. She’s ah-mazing!
Have a question I didn’t answer?
Send me a note here and I’d be happy to answer your question or concern!