The Spotlight Prize 2025 Finalist

 
What made you want to be an actor?
 

I took part in my secondary school’s production of Arabian Nights in year 9. From then on, it was like a spark had been lit and I suddenly realised that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. The feeling you get when you finally discover your passion is indescribable.

 
What kind of actor do you aspire to be?
 

I’d like to be an actor involved in work that sparks conversations. I want people to watch the projects I’m in and walk away feeling a sense of understanding that they didn’t have before. I still remember watching productions like Dreamgirls and having my complete existence changed after witnessing such talent. I’d like to be an actor that inspires others to do what they love as well as educate. I remember watching When They See Us and having no clue about the Central Park Five until that series.

 
Coming from an immigrant household and having a mother who, quite literally, dedicated her whole life to the happiness and wellbeing of her children, there’s a lot on the line for me when it comes to this dream.
 
Who in the industry would you like to work with?
 

Anyone who knows me knows that I’d love to work with Taraji P. Henson. There’s something so compelling and admiring about her story once you learn it. She makes every project she’s a part of and every role she takes on completely hers. It’s like every role is specifically written for her and only her.

 
What films, shows or books are currently inspiring you?
 

I recently watched Sinners, which has been quite the talk of the town. I found it really engaging. It’s one of the best things I’ve seen in a while. I loved the depiction of ‘Annie’, played by the talented Wunmi Mosaku, and that she was a leading lady in a romantic role. It’s not often that we see black women, specifically darker-skinned black women, taking on romantic leads and playing these roles. It was so refreshing to see a woman who looks like women I’ve been surrounded by my whole life on screen. I really enjoyed how Ryan Coogler married the sense of romance with her intelligence, which then becomes central to the plot.