What inspires you to bring characters to life in the different roles you’ve played in the industry?
It’s a blend of personal passion, cultural representation, and professional guidance. My family and friends are my bedrock, constantly fuelling my motivation and drive. Above all, I am deeply committed to representing Africans in a way that honours our rich heritage and diverse experiences.
Even when the characters I portray are flawed, I strive to immerse myself in their world, suspending judgment to authentically capture their essence as written in the script.
Additionally, collaborating with incredible directors significantly enhances my work. Their vision and expertise provide invaluable guidance, helping me to fully realise the depth and nuance of each character. It is this combination of personal inspiration, cultural dedication, and professional support that drives me to continually evolve and excel in my craft.
What has been the most challenging role you’ve played so far, and how did you prepare for it?
My most challenging role has undoubtedly been Ledama. Portraying this character required a deep dive into Maasai culture, language, and beliefs, which was particularly demanding as I am Luo, not Maasai. The preparation for this role was both rigorous and immensely rewarding. I immersed myself in the rich history of the Maasai people, studying their traditions and way of life. To authentically embody Ledama, I interacted extensively with Maasai individuals, closely observing their mannerisms and daily practices. This hands-on experience allowed me to gain a profound appreciation for their culture. The journey was transformative, broadening my understanding and respect for the Maasai community. It is an experience I will always cherish, and it significantly enriched my portrayal of the character.
How was the audition process for Shanga? Were you shocked when you got the part?
The audition process for Ledama was both intense and exhilarating. With many incredible actors vying for the role, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness, especially since I am not Maasai. Despite my initial apprehensions, I was determined to give it my all. During the audition, I focused on bringing authenticity and depth to the character, drawing from my extensive research and preparation.
To my delight, the casting crew was impressed by my portrayal. Their positive response and enthusiasm reassured me that I was the right fit for the role. After several discussions about the project's vision, I was thrilled to join a project dedicated to showcasing African culture to the world. It was an honour to be part of something that aims to celebrate and share the rich heritage of our continent.
How is the experience in Shanga series, especially when it comes to learning Maasai language in your role as Ledama?
The experience of learning the Maasai language has been incredibly enriching. For many in my generation, there's a disconnect with our African cultural roots, a lingering effect of colonisation that led to the loss of much of our heritage. This role provided a rare opportunity to bridge that gap. Delving into the Maasai language was just the beginning. I also immersed myself in their customs, beliefs, and way of life. This journey of cultural discovery was eye-opening and deeply rewarding.
It instilled in me a profound respect and appreciation for the Maasai people and their traditions. It also made me immensely proud of Kenya's diversity, highlighting the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our nation. This experience not only enhanced my portrayal of Ledama but also deepened my connection to my own cultural identity and the broader African heritage.
How is the experience playing a lead role alongside other top talents in the film industry, and what kind of projects are you hoping to work on in the future?
Working alongside other top actors has been an incredible experience. Having previously worked on major projects, I relish observing the diverse approaches my colleagues take to their roles. Each day on set is a learning opportunity, and I strive to absorb as much as I can from these talented professionals. Despite the amazing experiences, I recognise that many youths in Africa lack opportunities to develop their skills and showcase their talents. This inspired me to co-found an organisation called Creators of Impact with my friends. Our mission is to work with young people, helping them develop critical thinking, set and achieve their goals, hone their skills, and connect with opportunities.
Additionally, we focus on environmental initiatives and foster mental resilience among the youth. Moving forward, I am passionate about expanding this work and collaborating with more people, including some of my cast members, on these projects. While I am committed to giving my best in my acting career, my broader vision is to empower the next generation and create lasting positive change in our communities.
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