Nava Mau American actress, director and social activist Date of Birth: 14.05.1922 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Education
2. Activism and Early Career
3. Film Debut and Breakthrough
4. "Generation" and Career Ascent
5. Personal Life and Social Media Presence
6. Recent Projects

Early Life and Education

Born Mauricio Navarro in Mexico City on May 14, 1992, Nava Mau is the daughter of Spanish teacher Ray-Ellen and accountant Gabriel. Seeking a better life, the family emigrated to San Antonio, Texas. Mau's childhood home provided a supportive environment for her burgeoning artistic curiosity.

In high school, Mau came out as queer and announced her aspirations for a future in the arts. Despite encouragement from her parents, she initially harbored doubts about pursuing acting professionally due to a lack of relatable queer characters. After graduating, she enrolled at Pomona College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in linguistics and cognitive science.

Activism and Early Career

Alongside her academic pursuits, Mau immersed herself in activism, working as a paralegal for victims of immigrant violence and later as an advocate for survivors of violence. She also engaged in curriculum writing, facilitated workshops, and gave public speeches on social justice issues.

In the evenings, Mau took acting classes and wrote for a comedy sketch show, but the allure of a career in acting remained elusive. Nevertheless, she remained connected to the performing arts through her advocacy work.

Film Debut and Breakthrough

In 2019, Mau made her directorial and acting debut with the short film "Hour of the Wolf," which she wrote and starred in as Sophia, a young trans woman navigating a romantic encounter with Isaac, a cis man. The film garnered acclaim at international festivals.

In 2020, Mau consulted on the documentary "Disclosure: Trans Lives on Screen," which examined the portrayal of transgender people in Hollywood and its impact on American culture. She also appeared in the short film "Sam's City" as Natasha.

"Generation" and Career Ascent

Mau's breakout role came in 2021 with the drama series "Generation," where she played Ana, the loving aunt of protagonist Greta (Haley Sanchez). Ana's unwavering support for her niece, whose mother had been deported, resonated with audiences and solidified Mau's status as a rising star.

Personal Life and Social Media Presence

Mau's Instagram account showcases her personal life, career updates, and photo essays that often include her reflections on social issues. She has become vocal about her experiences as a trans woman and an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Recent Projects

In 2024, Mau starred as Teri in the Netflix black comedy "Baby Deer," based on the true story of a woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous relationship with a man who is being stalked. The series premiered in April of that year.