From Prankster to Actor

“Wesley always told jokes. He was always performing and saying the funniest things. We always considered him for acting or modeling,” said Wesley Wells' mother. “He always had an interest in performing.” Wesley agrees. “I can remember being really young, around four, joking around, doing shows for anyone who would watch me.”

Wesley goes to a performing arts high school, so when he was scouted by a Nijah / New Faces Development scout at the Queens Center Mall, the reactions among other students were not overwhelming positive. “Many parents of other kids at his school became involved with companies who had not provided results,” said Wesley's mom. “A lot of people tried to talk me out of working with Nijah / New Faces Development just because of their experience. They said it was a waste of our time, and some people even said it would be a scam.” But she persevered, because “I knew he wanted this and I believed they were going to give him the best opportunity a pursuing his dreams. I'd never forgive myself if I didn't make the investment to show I supported him.”

The combination of Wesley's comedic abilities, mom's support and Nijah / New Faces Development proved a winning one, when Wesley landed a role on one of Citibank's funniest commercials to date, “The Good Son.” Wesley plays the younger version of the main character, going through photos of himself online. “I expect fame. When my teachers recognized me in the commercial, it was a great feeling. It's been a lot of work, but it's also been a lot of fun.”

“Nijah / New Faces Development have been working really hard for us. They have pushed him in all the right directions. It's a testament to their commitment to make sure he's being seen by all of the right industry professionals,” said Wesley's mom.