Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Michael Cerqueira Da Costa. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Michael , we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Resilience, for me, is deeply rooted in the example set by my parents. Coming from Portugal, they raised me and my two sisters with a strong work ethic. No matter how tough things got, they never stopped working and rarely complained. That’s the mindset they passed down to me.
When I decided to pursue acting in New York, I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I carried their work ethic with me. To make the move possible, I worked three jobs back in Geneva. I was an IT technician during the day and worked as a security agent during the night. The days were long, often leaving me with only three hours of sleep, but giving up wasn’t an option. I had their example to remind me that hard work and persistence pay off.
Moving to New York was a huge adjustment, with a new culture, new people, and a very different lifestyle. But just like my parents taught me, I embraced the challenge. I kept my head down, focused on the goal, and pushed through, no matter how overwhelming it felt at times.
Their work ethic continues to inspire me. Every time I face a setback, whether it’s a demanding role or a challenge in my career, I remind myself of their resilience. They showed me that resilience isn’t about avoiding difficulties; it’s about enduring them, growing from them, and always moving forward.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m currently focused on building my career as an actor and filmmaker, with a deep passion for both performing and creating my own projects. I’m in my second year at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in New York, a place where I’ve been developing my skills, diving into method acting, and growing as an artist. The most exciting part of my journey is the constant evolution. Every role I take on and every project I work on pushes me to explore new facets of human emotion and storytelling.
What I find special about acting is the ability to step into someone else’s shoes and tell their story. I’ve played diverse and challenging roles, such as Eddie from Fool for Love, a complex cowboy madly in love with his sister, which was both emotionally intense and rewarding. On the other hand, my passion for filmmaking allows me to create my own narratives, like my short movie Outcome, which was selected for the LSTFI Film Festival.
A big turning point in my journey was receiving a scholarship from Vincent D’Onofrio. This recognition has been incredibly motivating, as it not only eased some of the financial burden but also reinforced my belief in myself and my work. It has allowed me to focus more on my craft and less on how to make ends meet.
What excites me most is the blend of my two passions: acting and producing. I’m not just interested in being in front of the camera but also in creating stories from behind the scenes. I’ve already produced short films, and I aim to continue developing original projects that allow me to tell unique stories.
Looking ahead, I’m focused on gaining more experience both on screen and behind the camera. I also have a vision for the future that includes bringing more opportunities to Switzerland, where I grew up. My long-term goal is to contribute to the development of the Swiss film and television industry, helping to create a space where more diverse stories can be told.
As I move forward, I’m excited to continue collaborating with other artists and exploring new creative opportunities. Whether it’s acting, producing, or working on my own projects, I’m passionate about every aspect of this industry.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three qualities have been especially impactful in my journey: resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
1. Resilience: As I’ve mentioned before, resilience has been crucial in overcoming the challenges I faced. The ability to keep going despite setbacks and obstacles has helped me stay focused on my goals. My advice for those early in their journey is to embrace failure as a part of the process. Each setback is an opportunity to learn and grow. Surround yourself with supportive people who inspire you and remind you of your worth when things get tough.
2. Adaptability: Moving from Switzerland to the U.S. required a significant adjustment. Adapting to a new culture and environment is essential, especially in the creative industry, where things can change rapidly. Being open to new experiences and flexible in your approach will help you navigate the unpredictable nature of this field. My advice is to embrace change and remain curious. Take on new challenges, even if they seem outside your comfort zone, as they will expand your horizons and skill set.
3. Commitment to Lifelong Learning: The journey in the arts is continuous; there is always more to learn. Whether it’s improving your acting techniques, understanding the film production process, or exploring new storytelling methods, a commitment to learning keeps you engaged and relevant. My advice for those starting out is to seek out workshops, classes, and mentorship opportunities. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and learn from those around you, as every experience can contribute to your growth.
In summary, cultivating resilience, adaptability, and a passion for lifelong learning will not only help you navigate your journey but also enhance your creativity and effectiveness in the arts. Embrace the process, and remember that every step is part of your story.
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
One book that has played a significant role in my development is the Bible. For me, it serves as a guiding book for everything I do in life. Reading it has been a source of improvement, and I’ve seen how its teachings can shape one’s life for the better.
Following Jesus and striving to be like him every day is a challenge, as we are often driven by our human desires. However, as I grow older, I’ve come to realize that faith has become an essential part of my life. The Bible encourages me to reflect on my actions and decisions, offering wisdom that helps navigate life’s complexities.
Some of the most valuable lessons I’ve gained from the Bible include the importance of love, forgiveness, and humility. The message of loving others, even when it’s difficult, has taught me the power of compassion. This compassion has not only influenced my personal relationships but also helped me become a better listener and actor. Understanding different perspectives enhances my ability to portray diverse characters authentically.
Additionally, understanding the significance of forgiveness has allowed me to let go of grudges and foster healthier relationships. Embracing humility helps me stay grounded and open to learning from others.
Applying these teachings has truly improved my life. I find that by focusing on my faith and the principles laid out in the Bible, I can approach challenges with a more positive mindset and a sense of purpose. It reminds me that I’m part of something greater, encouraging personal growth and a deeper connection with those around me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://michaelcdacosta.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/freesh.m
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-cerqueira-da-costa-516665130
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@michaelcdacosta?si=ldI448wQxYwpJOY2
Image Credits
@mel_etlesfleurs
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