Award-winning Ugandan-Australian actor Suzan Mutesi talks about her her career journey, creative inspirations, & her upcoming film Sanctuary Pariahs. |

Suzan Faith Mutesi, actress, writer, and producer. who’s recent projects include a leading role in the feature film “Sanctuary Pariahs” (2025) Feature Film on Netflix Carmen & Bolude (2024) and a notable appearance in “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.” In 2021, Suzan began working on a forthcoming horror film titled “Lady Ifrita.” Additionally, she has showcased her acting skills in the drama “Ruby’s Choice” (2020), as well as in the films “Moon Rock for Monday” (2019) and “Irreversible Choices” (2015), and had a role in the 2019 television series “Deadly Women.”

Suzan took some time out to answer the Spending Time With…questions and share some insights into her working world. Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.

Can you tell me a bit about the character you play in the highly anticipated new film Sanctuary Pariahs?

In Sanctuary Pariahs, I play Bell, a character navigating complex circumstances while trying to hold onto her humanity and resilience. Bell represents someone caught between survival and hope, and I was immediately drawn to the emotional depth of the role. What I love about her is that she’s layered — strong, yet vulnerable at the same time. Exploring those contradictions made the character incredibly rewarding to portray as an actor.

How did you come to be involved with the film?

I actually came across the audition in a very unexpected way. For some time, I had struggled with finding a proper acting agent. One day I was scrolling through Facebook when I suddenly saw an audition notice for the film. It happened to be the last day of auditions, and it was a Sunday. That morning I went to church, and after the service I decided to go straight to the audition. I ended up being the last person to audition that day. Honestly, I didn’t think too much about it afterward because I had been told most of the roles had already been filled. I assumed that if I was cast at all, it might be for a small supporting role or even just a one-line part. A few weeks later, the director, Daniel Okoduwa, invited me to dinner and offered me the role of Bell as the lead character. It was a complete surprise. But once he shared more about the film and the story behind it, I felt a strong connection to it. The film is based on a true story, and I felt a real responsibility and desire to help tell an authentic story about what some people go through in life.

Can you remember the moment you decided you wanted to become an actor? What was that like?

I’ve always been drawn to storytelling and creative expression. After moving from Uganda to Australia at a young age, I discovered that performance and storytelling were powerful ways to connect with people and share different perspectives. That curiosity about human stories eventually led me to pursue acting seriously and to continue developing my craft through training and experience.

Which actors inspire you the most?

There are so many actors I admire. I’m especially inspired by performers who bring intensity, truth, and emotional authenticity to their work. Artists like Viola Davis, Meryl Streep, and Cate Blanchett are extraordinary examples of actors who completely transform into their characters and elevate every story they’re part of

As an actor and a film fan, what has been the coolest & big name’d actor you’ve ever met?

One memorable moment for me was meeting Tom Cruise at a film premiere. He was incredibly kind and generous with his time. It was inspiring to see someone at that level still so passionate about the craft and genuinely interested in connecting with fans and fellow creatives.

If you had to make a bucket list of people you’d love to work with, who would be on it and why?

One director I would absolutely love to work with is James Cameron. His filmmaking is groundbreaking, both visually and technologically. Through films like Avatar, Titanic, and Terminator 2: Judgment Day, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of cinema and storytelling. What I admire most about his work is how he combines large-scale world-building with deeply emotional human stories. His ability to create immersive universes while still focusing on character and humanity is incredibly inspiring as an actor. Another director I would love to collaborate with is Ryan Coogler. I admire how he tells powerful, character driven stories that resonate globally. His work on Black Panther and Creed shows how he blends emotional storytelling with strong cultural themes and unforgettable characters. Lastly, I would love to work with Tyler Perry. His ability to craft stories that combine heartfelt emotion, humor, and relatable family dynamics is truly inspiring. I admire how he consistently creates content that connects with audiences on a personal and cultural level while also breaking new ground in film and television.

As an actor, what’s the most difficult part of your creative journey?

One of the most difficult aspects is the unpredictability of the industry. Acting requires resilience because there are many auditions, rejections, and long waiting periods between opportunities. However, those challenges also make the successes and creative breakthroughs incredibly meaningful.

On the flip side — what’s the most enjoyable part of the creative process for you?

The most enjoyable part is stepping into a completely different world through a character. I love the process of building a character — understanding their motivations, emotions, and experiences — and then collaborating with directors and fellow actors to bring a story to life. That collaborative energy is one of the most fulfilling aspects of filmmaking.