Aki's journey began as a trained actor, leading him to star in several West End musicals and plays, including *Hair* (Broadway cast), *Hairspray*, *West Side Story*, *Chariots of Fire*, *Umbrellas of Cherbourg*, and *The Empress* (RSC).** Alongside his theater work, Aki also appeared as a dancer in high-profile campaigns for Burberry and Armani. His talents soon transitioned into TV and film, with notable appearances in *Star Wars: The Last Jedi*, *A Moving Image* (which premiered at the BFI London Film Festival), *Riot Club*, and *Burning Men*. He has also been featured in popular television series such as *Doctor Who* (Rosa Parks episode, BBC), *Sick of It* (Sky), *Defending the Guilty* (BBC2), and *Father Brown* (BBC2).

During this time, Aki's passion for storytelling—both in front of and behind the camera—began to flourish. Eager to explore the creative side of filmmaking, he co-founded the production company *Small Long Productions* with a friend. Over the past two years, Aki has written, directed, produced, and starred in his short film *SPILT*, which earned nominations at numerous festivals and was picked up for distribution by *Short of the Week*. *Small Long Productions* has also recently completed a short film starring Gemma Arterton.

Aki made his feature film debut with *REAL*, produced through *Small Long Productions*. As writer, director, and producer, he saw *REAL* premiere at the 63rd BFI London Film Festival, with additional screenings at the Leeds International Film Festival (LIFF) and the Pan African Film Festival, where it was nominated for Best Debut Feature. *REAL* is set for theatrical release this summer and can be seen on Sky Cinema, BFI Player, and Film4.

In recognition of his acting, Aki won Best Leading Actor at the British Urban Film Festival for the feature film *FACES*, which will be released on Amazon early next year. Additionally, he was awarded the Rising Star Award at this year’s Screen Nation Awards. Aki’s talent has also been acknowledged with a long-list nomination for the British Independent Film Awards (BIFA) in the categories of Best Debut Director, Best Debut Screenwriter, and The Raindance Discovery Award for *REAL*.

Aki is currently starring in one of the BBC’s most-watched series, *Silent Witness*, where he plays the lead role of Gabriel Folukoya. Alongside acting, he has recently finished writing his second feature film, *HUM*, which has been optioned. He is also developing a TV series, *Little Faith*, in collaboration with Channel 4, and is working with Lionsgate, Eleven Films (creators of *Sex Education*), and Sky TV on a project with musician Arlo. Additionally, Aki has a TV drama in development with BBC Studios.