We were lucky to catch up with Nikki Silva recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nikki, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Hey there, I’m Nikki, a filmmaker and advocate deeply passionate about telling meaningful stories and giving back. Right now, I’m knee-deep in post-production of a groundbreaking 10-episode series and short film, “…or elsewhere” in collaboration with with upcoming hip-hop artist nikmoody. Together, we’re diving into the delicate balance between pursuing creativity and nurturing a fulfilling family life—it’s a journey that hits close to home for both of us. The choosing between the two lives.

Beyond filmmaking, I produce a nonprofit beauty pageant called “The Exceptional Pageant” I founded in 2012 for individuals with disabilities. It’s not just about outer beauty; it’s about empowering each participant and raising awareness about developmental disabilities. A space where we honor ability and prove that limitations are made to be broken.

My company, Nikki Silva Productions, is all about helping others tell their stories authentically. Every project I take on is carefully chosen with the intention of making a positive impact, whether it’s sparking empathy or amplifying voices for the greater good.

Although I am a musician and love to jam, write songs, and perform, my main focus is acting. Being an actress allows me to explore different parts of myself in order to fulfill a piece of a puzzle that is a story.

For me, storytelling isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. It’s about inspiring emotions, fostering understanding, and leaving a lasting impact on hearts and minds.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

During my senior year of high school and the year following, I ventured into the medical billing field and found quick success, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t where my heart truly was. So, I took a leap of faith and pursued acting—an endeavor that ignited a fire within me.

In my acting classes, I stumbled upon a group of fellow creatives who happened to be musicians. Together, we formed a band called The Big Happy, and for years, music became my focal point. Concurrently, I shared my passion of acting by teaching acting to younger aspiring artists. And performing in local theatrical productions. Some of my best memories come from those local theatre days and being in the band. We toured the east coast, opened up for some amazing artists such as Beres Hammond and Rebulution.

However, as much as I adored music, I realized the harsh reality of sustaining a livelihood solely from it. Thus, I pivoted towards utilizing my creativity in visual mediums. This led to the inception of my own production company, where I offer a plethora of services ranging from songwriting to video production.

Directing became my love, and I’ve had the privilege to helm numerous theatrical, TV, and film productions. Recently, I rekindled my passion for acting, diving headfirst into auditions and classes. With a newfound determination, I’ve signed with a manager, and I’m fervently pursuing my dreams as an actress. This is my time, and I’m ready to pour my heart and soul into this journey.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I actually have a spoken word poem on my social media platforms called “Resilience” My whole life, I have had to fight to overcome adversity. I had to help raise my siblings and in the face of many devastating childhood trauma’s, I rose above.
At 10 years old, I lived in a homeless shelter with my Mom and sister and brother and I gathered all of the kids and we put on a huge play, written and directed by myself. I remember even back then the goal of the play was to give hope and happiness to our mothers.
I never let my struggles be my weakness. Instead, I used them as a strength.
My life has forced me to be resourceful which has led me to opportunities that only could of happened through my ability to be creative with survival.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

So many times I had to pivot.

When I was 19. I was living in Florida, I had a whole life on a horse ranch with a boyfriend who I thought I would marry, I was negotiating contracts with insurance companies for anesthesiologists.
I woke up one morning and just said, nope, this isn’t it. I moved back to New York, started auditioning for stuff I found on Craigslist because I had no clue what I was doing and eventually found real acting coaches and mentors who helped teach me the business of acting.

When I was 27, I had gotten so deep into the music scene, that I hadn’t been focusing my energy on becoming on actress but rather helping others act and doing theatre for fun. Although I had such a deep passion for music, I knew that I had to make this extremely difficult decision in order to level up.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nikkisilvaproductions.com/
• Instagram: @nikkiannsiva
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikki.silva.921
• Twitter: @nikkimoody_
• Other: “…or elsewhere” – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP2BDk8k-Ru39JZcJD_IKBp6bHoCaci78

Image Credits
Clovis Bloom Felipe