Are young Kiwis given the tools to navigate adversity and find their purpose? Fredrick Pokai is a prolific NZ Filmmaker with over 40 films under his belt; he has experienced the depths but refused to stay down. He's on a mission to shed light on mental health and the transformative power of taking responsibility for our actions. Whether you're a film lover, a mental health advocate, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is for you! We are pleased to have our dear friend Johnson Manukau back as a co-host!
Show 186 – Fredrick Pokai (Māori Filmmaker)
Welcome to the Altbays Show (Feat. Johnson Manukau and Leo Magri)
Fredrick is an Aotearoa NZ filmmaker, writer, actor and director. He's currently releasing his short film 'Search for Hawaiki', which has been 11 years in the making. Fredrick has worked on nearly 40 films in his career, ranging from independent low-budget to big-budget movies.
He was also a pro wrestler under the alias of FTG (Fredrick the Great), which was his childhood dream.
Fredrick grew up in Gisborne with his mum until he was eight, and then they moved to Hamilton, where his dad lived, and his mum studied. His mum dealt with some hardships when he was young, so he ended up with his father until he was 16.
He grew pretty distant from his whanau then, so he had to figure a lot out for himself. It led him down some dark paths with substances, and he only really came right a couple of years ago.
In 2022, after his last relationship ended, Fredrick promised he would never be the same again. He took control of his life and focused on his mission in life.
Fredrick is workshopping with youths in Whitianga and Blenheim this year, so he aims to expand from there.
Fredrick wants people to hear the story of someone that has been at the bottom of the barrel and did not accept that position—taking ownership and responsibility for his actions to create an empire and build a legacy that his daughter, whanau and ancestors can be proud of.
