Sajida Malik

Sajida Malik was born and raised in Miami, FL to a family of Guatemalan, Pakistani, German and Spanish descent.

Growing up, Sajida had always been the introvert of her class - exploring mostly musical talents such as playing violin and singing with the chorus. At the age of 17, while still in high school, Sajida enlisted in the US Army Reserve. After service, much to her surprise, she was scouted to be featured in the Miami Beach Model Showcase for which she was coached in runway and print modeling as well as in acting for film and TV. It was there that she became interested in pursuing a career as an actress. In 2004, Sajida was offered a supporting role by a local producer in an indie drama film entitled "Being Broken". Also, although not professionally trained, she became well known in the local electronic dance circle and was selected as a background dancer for DJ Tiesto's video "Love Comes Again ft. BT" later that year. In 2005, she was cast in The O.C.'s popular spring break episode "The Return of the Nana".

Sajida then decided to devote her time to completing her studies, as she had become increasingly concerned with global affairs and environmental policy. She attended Florida International University (FIU) where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations with a concentration in Environmental Studies. This led her to gain advanced experience in working as a researcher of global renewable energy/fuel resources and policy for institutions such as FIU, the US Department of Energy and Toyota. She has also raised public awareness and funds for pressing environmental and societal issues for Environment Florida and the Human Rights Campaign. However, it was her study and immersion in the spiritual practice of yoga with the Sivananda lineage that was the most profound experience in leading her back into an artistic journey - now focusing her energy in combining all her experiences and research into subtle, compelling stories.

Sajida has since worked as a background artist on FX's Hoke (2014), M. Night Shyamalan's The Visit (2015) and USA's Graceland S.3. She is still very much an introvert.