Movers And Shakers: Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz

By: Joe Cardoso

Looking for people who got next in their industry of choice? Well, this is the interview series for you, Movers and Shakers is just that as we highlight who you need to know, and this month is no different. We introduce you to a young lady who when she’s not on the mat might be on a movie set kicking ass and taking names. Her resume is impressive. With a family legacy in martial arts, numerous awards, and records we introduce you to Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz known as Jewels on social media!

Joe Cardoso: You started at a very young age. How would you describe those beginning stages?

 Jewels: Well, I’ve been a professional martial artist my whole life. I started when I was 3 years old. My parents were my instructors, I started competing young and over the years became a multiple-time world champion. I had heard stories of martial artists going into film, but it felt like it was just a “luck” thing. The next step was either go out and get a regular job or pursue a career that included my passion and for me that next big step, the dream, was stunts.

JR: I felt pressure to be great, but it was never pressure from my family, I have always been competitive, so it was internal pressure. Nothing I love more than proving myself in a room, any room, even if I’m the only one in there.

JC: Was it love at first sight or did it take time to fall for the sport?

JR: It was definitely love at first sight with karate, I was OBSESSED. Though, when I was 5 years old in kindergarten all the girl’s peer pressured me to quit because “karate is for boys” & “girls do dance, cheer & gymnastics” So I listened… I WAS MISERABLE, a few years later I was back at the karate school and I knew I was HOME.

JR: I was a big theatre kid aside from martial arts. I did other spots here and there, but I knew my heart was in martial arts the entire time. 

JR: I love to read, edit (which I guess goes under work), play video games, travel, and be laid up on a beach somewhere. I have to make sure I make time to rest and fill my cup because this industry is extremely exhausting.

JR: As a martial artist, I had friends that had gotten into this field and would mention if I wanted to get in I would do great but I didn’t take it seriously until my husband was on Ozark and Cobra Kai and I could see how much fun he was having and how passionate he was. I started training and by word of mouth I was called into work my first job, it’s history from then, and I was hooked! 

JR: Actually, I don’t really get anxious for work. I get more anxious going into talk shows or podcasts. For work on big sets, I am so confident in how much I train I am just excited to put it to use more than anything. I just have so much love for stunts it supersedes the nerves.  

JR: I would love to book another high-profile action actress role or acting role. Stunts is going smoothly so I’m excited for the challenge of growing in the acting side. 

JR: It’s important for me to represent well above all else. Showing that we are valuable and an asset in this industry will open doors for more of us to be on set and I couldn’t be prouder. Representation for those watching helps get the story told better and I think that is something that productions are understanding and taking advantage of. I love to see it.

JC: Who is Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz? 

JR: My name is Jewelianna Ramos-Ortiz but I go by Jewels or many people know from social media as “Karate.Jewels” I am a stunt actress for TV and Film but before that and at my core I am a martial artist! I was born and raised on the mats and I love to do the hard stuff and be an inspiration, to anyone but more specifically to young girls. I want to make a difference by proving that beautiful and badass are not mutually exclusive but they can coexist and that having respect for yourself and others never goes out of style.

A fun and positive attitude look to see more of her on your TV and at the movies. Catch up with Jewel latest by following her on socials.