Jona Xiao

Jona Xiao, born Qiaona Xiao on May 18, 1989 in Changsha, Hunan, China, is an American actress who has built a career bridging Eastern and Western cultural narratives. From an early age she moved with her family to New York and later settled in St. Louis, Missouri, where she discovered a passion for performance while attending middle school. Growing up as one of the few Asian faces in her community, Xiao endured racial slurs that fueled her determination to challenge stereotypes on screen, shaping both her artistic vision and personal resilience. In addition to acting, she founded Career ACTivate, an organization dedicated to empowering emerging actors with mentorship, workshops, and industry connections, reflecting her commitment to community uplift and professional development. Her early work includes a variety of independent films and television roles that highlighted her versatile range, from subtle dramatic moments to energetic comedic beats. The breakthrough moment came when she was cast in Spider‑Man: Homecoming after Marisa Tomei advocated for her inclusion, though the part was ultimately cut from the final edit, illustrating the unpredictable nature of Hollywood production. In 2021, Xiao expanded her repertoire by lending her voice to a younger Namaari in Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon, showcasing her talent in animation and voice work. Throughout her career, she has remained vocal about representation, frequently speaking at panels and interviews about the importance of authentic Asian‑American stories. Xiao continues to balance on‑screen performances with her entrepreneurial ventures, proving herself a dynamic force in the entertainment industry. Her journey from a child immigrant to a respected actress and mentor underscores a narrative of perseverance, cultural advocacy, and artistic ambition.