We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Fernando Tipacti Jr.. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Fernando below.

Fernando, appreciate you joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

A significant, life-changing risk I took was moving from New Jersey to Savannah, Georgia, to pursue my MFA in Performing Arts. In September 2019, as I began my senior year of undergraduate studies, I was uncertain about my plans for after graduation and knew time was moving quickly. During this period, my late professor, Mary Ellen, encouraged me to consider graduate school. In January 2020, I auditioned at the URTAs (University Resident Theatre Association auditions) in New York City, a prestigious event where top MFA performing arts programs from across the country and internationally scout for new talent. I was fortunate to receive callbacks from many programs, but after careful consideration, I chose to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) to further my education.

Deciding to move away from home wasn’t easy. Being separated from my family and friends took an emotional toll on me, especially in the beginning. It was a cultural adjustment transitioning from being just 30 minutes away from New York City to the historic atmosphere of Savannah. However, this move allowed me to immerse myself in the world of filmmaking and explore my passions in ways I hadn’t before. Moving to the South transformed both my life and career—I went from knowing very little about filmmaking to becoming fully immersed in it. I have not only refined my skills as an actor but also developed new skills in producing, directing, and writing. With the support of my colleagues from SCAD, whom I still collaborate with today, I have grown significantly as an artist and finally found the creative community I had been yearning for.

When I moved to the South, I didn’t know what to expect, but looking back now, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Fernando, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello! I’m Fernando Tipacti Jr., an Atlanta-based actor, producer, and director with a deep passion for filmmaking and the arts. My journey began in theater, where my love for storytelling evolved into a focus on film and television. With an MFA in Performing Arts from SCAD, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with talented industry professionals and gaining experience in directing, producing, and acting.

What sets me apart is my meticulous attention to detail and my relentless drive as a perfectionist—in the best way possible. I am never one to back down from a challenge, no matter how big or small. This commitment to precision and resilience is evident in every project I take on.

I am particularly proud of my latest film, We Need a Break, which I produced and starred in. It’s currently in the film festival circuit and is set for public release this Fall. This film holds a special place in my heart as it represents the culmination of my growth and dedication as a filmmaker. I believe it’s a testament to my passion for authentic storytelling and my ability to create compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

For me, filmmaking goes beyond just making movies—it’s about building meaningful connections, sparking conversations, and inspiring thought. My promise to potential clients and followers is simple: I am here to give you a show, one way or another. My work ethic is unwavering, and I believe it shines through in every piece of work I create or collaborate on.

Thank you for your interest in my journey. I am excited to share my upcoming projects and continue to connect with fellow storytellers, audiences, and supporters who share a passion for film!

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

Rather than unlearning a lesson, I’d say there’s something I learned just in time: the understanding that a creative journey, much like any path in life, is inherently unpredictable and often beyond our control. It’s easy to feel disheartened when things don’t go as planned or when you anticipate a positive outcome and face a different reality instead. In those moments, it’s tempting to turn inward and be hard on yourself.

What I’ve come to realize is that, as artists, the most important thing we can do is continue to create art that we are genuinely passionate about. Success shouldn’t be measured solely by achievements or accolades, but by the love and authenticity we put into our work. When our motivation is driven by passion rather than external validation, we find true fulfillment, no matter the outcome. This mindset has been crucial for me, helping me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters: the art itself.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The driving force behind my creative journey is rooted in fulfilling the dreams of the child I once was—the young boy who fell deeply in love with the art of storytelling. Everything I do now is a tribute to that child, who would be amazed and inspired by the work I’m creating today. I want him to see how far I can go, to push boundaries, and to keep reaching for the extraordinary.

Beyond that, my close family and friends are my constant source of motivation. They believe in me, support me, and challenge me to be the best version of myself. Their unwavering encouragement drives me to push myself every day, to not only reach new heights in my craft but to create the most honest, powerful, and impactful art that I can. My mission is to make them proud and to continue to honor the love and passion that sparked this journey in the first place.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tupacti/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernandotipactijr
• Other: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/fernandotipacti_jrhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm12931166/