Fijian-born David Tiko has made his acting debut on a soap opera in New Zealand. Known for his ambition and aspirations, David’s journey began in Fiji where he nurtured his dream of acting despite the limited opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Growing up, David was hesitant to voice his ambitions due to a fear of being dismissed. However, relocating to New Zealand gave him the courage to pursue his passion with renewed determination. “New Zealand opened my eyes to possibilities. Here, I realized that chasing my dreams was not just a fantasy but something I could actually strive for,” he shared.
After years of hard work, David landed a guest role on the popular New Zealand television series Shortland Street, portraying Filipe, an i-Taukei man. He regarded this role as a significant milestone, especially since it allowed him to connect with his Fijian roots.
What made the experience even more special was acting alongside his niece, Sala, who played his character’s daughter. David praised her talent, saying, “Her presence on set was both inspiring and humbling.”
The character of Filipe resonated with David personally, as it reflected his own experiences of being away from home while maintaining cultural ties. He noted how the challenges faced by Filipe echoed his own journey.
David’s path to success included receiving his acting diploma from The Actors Program, culminating in a memorable moment when Marianne Infante presented it to him. “Having her present my diploma and later sharing the screen with her on Shortland Street was surreal and reinforced my belief in preparation and perseverance,” he remarked.
Looking to the future, David is excited about upcoming projects and remains focused on his ultimate goal of becoming a leading actor. He aspires to inspire others and represent his culture through his work.
David encourages those hesitant to pursue their dreams to “believe in yourself and your abilities. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Success in acting, as in life, is about seizing opportunities and staying true to your passion.” His journey serves as an inspiring reminder that dedication and courage can help turn dreams into reality.