Niyla Jordan was born in Sacramento, California, and has been dazzling those around her from an early age. A true animal lover, Niyla can tell you almost exactly what type of animal any species belongs to, impressing friends and strangers alike with her vast knowledge.
She began speaking fluently at just one year old, and by the age of four, she landed her first speaking engagement, showcasing her natural gift for communication.
Raised in church, Niyla developed a deep love for music and acting, passions that continue to shape her creative journey. Recently, she has discovered a love for voiceovers and delights in performing voice accent impressions, bringing characters and stories to life with her vibrant talent.
Niyla is a bright star with a heart full of creativity and big dreams for the future.
HELLO NIYLA BUTLER, WELCOME TO ABOUT INSIDER! WHAT GOT YOU INTO ENTERTAINMENT THAT MADE YOU REALIZE THAT IT WAS YOUR CHOSEN PATH?
I realized entertainment was my path when I noticed I didn’t have the same interests as most of my friends. A lot of them were into sports and other things I didn’t really connect with, so I started searching for what made me excited. That’s when I discovered how much I loved acting, music, and doing voice impressions. It felt amazing to find something that was truly my passion!
WHAT KIND OF TRAINING HAVE YOU RECEIVED SO FAR AHEAD OF IPOP!?
Most of my training so far has come from being really active in my church. I’ve been part of the choir and have performed in talent shows there, which helped me learn how to sing, act, and feel comfortable on stage. Those experiences have helped me get ready for bigger opportunities like iPOP!
I am also part of NYLA Talent, where I have trained with Connor Weil (Disney’s: KC Undercover) and Robert Vito (Spy Kids 3). I received One on One training from director and producer Derek Maki and vocal coach James Lugo.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE ROLES YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN?
I haven’t been in too many roles yet, but after creating my own monologue, I realized I really enjoy playing characters who are the dependable friend—the one people can rely on. I love bringing that supportive, trustworthy energy to a role.
Although, I have done a cool commercial for Green Pan which was a lot of fun!
WHAT ACCENTS AND DIALECTS CAN YOU DO?
This is actually my favorite! I love doing British accents, and I’m always up for the challenge of trying new accents and dialects.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE PROJECTS THAT YOU TYPICALLY PREFER?
That’s a hard question because I’m still exploring what I love most. Right now, I’m open to all types of projects—TV, stage, or screen—and different genres. I’m excited to try new things and see where I fit best!
HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR AN AUDITION?
I read the script carefully, learn my lines, and think about how to connect with the character. I practice a lot so I feel confident walking into the audition.
HAS THERE BEEN ONE PARTICULAR MOMENT IN YOUR LIFE SO FAR THAT YOU’RE MOST PROUD OF?
I’m most proud of being able to participate in iPOP. It’s been such an incredible experience, and I feel so grateful for the opportunity and everything I’ve learned.
WHO ARE YOUR INFLUENCES GROWING UP THAT HELPED TO MOLD YOU INTO WHO YOU ARE TODAY?
First, my faith in God has been a huge influence in my life. And of course, my family has played a big part in shaping who I am and keeping me grounded in my roots.
WHAT WOULD YOUR DREAM JOB BE?
My dream job on TV would be something along the lines of what Keke Palmer does—versatile, talented roles that let me act, sing, and connect with people.
IF YOU HAD ONE MESSAGE TO GIVE TO YOURSELF, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
If I could give myself one message, it would be: Every day is a new day. No matter what happened yesterday, I have a fresh start and new opportunities today.
IF YOU WEREN’T A PASSIONATE ACTOR, WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU BE DOING?
I’d likely be working with animals because I’ve always had a passion for caring for them.
WHAT IS ONE WORD TO DESCRIBE YOURSELF?
Caring.
WHAT IS ONE FOOD YOU WILL NEVER EAT?
Chitlins
WHAT IS YOUR THING TO DO WITH YOUR FRIENDS?
Eat great food and crack jokes on each other!
HAVE YOU SET ANY 2025 PROFESSIONAL GOALS TO ACHIEVE?
Yes! I’ve set some goals for 2025. I want to keep getting better at acting and singing by taking more classes and learning new songs and monologues. I also plan to practice a lot and record myself so I can see how I’m improving.
I’m hoping to update my headshots and my resume so I’m ready for auditions. One of my big goals is to book a handful of commercials and some roles in film or television this year. I want to audition for more projects and keep my social media up to date so people can see what I’m working on.
I also want to meet more people in the industry and maybe work with other artists on fun projects. I’d love to post more singing and acting videos online and perform live when I can. I’m even thinking about writing my own songs or short scripts.
And of course, I want to stay healthy and take care of my voice. I’m planning to check in on my goals each month to stay on track. I’m really excited for 2025.
WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT ATTENDING IPOP!?
Making new friends and getting great coaching advice from the experts!
WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO FOLLOW YOU ONLINE?
You can follow me on Instagram @theniylajordan
