Kia Ora, Talofa Lava, Hello...
My name is Shonee Samia.
I’m a Māori (Ngāti Raukawa) and Sāmoan (Satitoa/Falelima) creative born in New Zealand but currently living on the Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. I work across acting, motion capture, stunts and producing.
I’m addicted to stories that make you laugh, cry, or both, it's even better if it's in the same scene. I love disappearing into roles that make people feel, whether it’s through laughter, tears, action scenes or the ones that give people goosebumps. I’m in it for the performances that help people FEEL. If I can help at least one person feel like they see themselves, their stories, their experiences on screen, then I've done my part.
Whether I’m suited up on a mocap stage, throwing myself into a stunt, or breathing life into a character, I love performing to a standard where the stories stay with people long after the credits roll.
I am a game developer by trade, but storytelling through performance kept calling me back. As much as I enjoyed being in the I.T space, I knew I wanted to try film and my first gig was on set of "Occupation" where I spent time working with Temuera Morrison. He was one of the New Zealand actors I looked up to as a kid. After that.... I have never looked back.
I’ve trained in acting and transitioned from the I.T space into motion capture as a performer within the game and film industry. Any form of storytelling through physical movement, I threw myself into. Every performance I give is shaped by my ancestors, my upbringing, and the culture I represent.
As an actor I believe my job is not just to deliver lines but to listen, collaborate, and honour the work of the whole crew. Every project I step onto is another chance to grow, connect, and bring stories with meaning to life.
Outside of this industry, I compete as a National Powerlifter. I love good food, and spending time with family and friends. I’d say I’m pretty easy to get along with, curious, a bit of a geek and always up for a laugh. However, when it’s time to work, I switch on and give it everything.
