The WaiteING Room w/ Romaine Waite

Toronto-based filmmaker Kabir Birk, whose work spans narrative shorts, commercials, fashion films, and documentaries. Kabir shares his approach to storytelling, focusing on authenticity, emotional resonance, and the creative decisions that bring each project to life.We discuss his journey from studying Cinema at the University of Toronto to and how those experiences shaped his perspective as a director. Along the way, Kabir offers candid insights on collaborating with talent, capturing real human moments, and pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.

The most powerful images aren’t just seen — they’re felt. In this episode, Rod Hafezi, a Toronto-based photographer, filmmaker, and art director, to explore how he captures authenticity in every frame. We talk about his approach to storytelling, how he makes people feel at ease in front of the camera, and the philosophy that guides his work across headshots, commercials, and cinematic projects.Rod shares insights on balancing artistry with honesty, revealing the human moments that make an image unforgettable. Whether you’re a creative professional or just someone who loves the art of storytelling, this conversation offers inspiration, perspective, and a deeper appreciation for the craft of visual storytelling.

Some careers are built on momentum — others on dedication, heart, and a deep love for the craft. In this episode, I talk with veteran Canadian actor Sarah Orenstein for a candid conversation about her decades-long journey in theatre, film, and television.We dive into the roles that shaped her, the lessons she’s carried forward, and how she’s navigated the ever-changing landscape of the industry. Sarah brings honesty, humour, and perspective to what it really takes to sustain a meaningful career in the arts.For actors, storytellers, and anyone passionate about the creative life, this episode is both inspiring and grounding.

In this episode, I sit down with director Sean McLeod to explore his journey across music videos, commercials, and films. Sean shares how he shapes stories visually, adapts his creative process to different formats, and collaborates with artists and brands to bring bold ideas to life. From high-energy music videos to cinematic commercials and narrative movies, we break down the craft, the challenges, and the lessons learned along the way.Whether you’re an aspiring filmmaker, a creative professional, or simply a fan of great storytelling, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at the art of directing.

In this candid and inspiring conversation, Nabeel El-Khafif opens up about his evolution from an aspiring rapper with a love for rhythm and wordplay to a dynamic actor commanding both stage and screen. He walks us through the pivotal moments, mentors, and missteps that shaped his artistic journey, revealing how each chapter—from the studio mic to the theatre stage—was driven by an unshakable desire to express truth.Nabeel reflects on the discipline and focus instilled by martial arts, the grind and growth that come from acting classes, and the way writing continues to fuel his performances with depth and honesty. With vulnerability and humour, he talks about navigating the unpredictable landscape of the acting world—auditions that sting, roles that stretch, and the quiet courage it takes to keep going when doors don’t open right away.He also shares the electric energy of monologue slams, where performance meets poetry and everything is on the line in just a few minutes. Through it all, Nabeel returns to one core belief: that creativity is about connection. It’s about tapping into the mess, beauty, and brilliance of being human—and daring to share that with the world.Whether you're an artist on your own path or simply someone looking to be moved, Nabeel’s story is a powerful reminder that the journey is rarely linear, but always worth it.

Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even crave a plate of jollof or jerk chicken. In this vibrant conversation, Olunike Adeliyi dives into the age-old culinary rivalry between Nigerian and Jamaican cuisine (spoiler: she has thoughts), dishes on her time filming in Jamaica, and shares the winding, soulful road she’s taken as an accomplished artist. With equal parts heart and humor, she reflects on why representation in storytelling matters, the non-negotiable role of self-care in a creative life, and how her artistic spark is deeply rooted in something spiritual. Plus, Olunike opens up about her philanthropic work, showing how community, creativity, and culture are all beautifully tangled together.

Catherine De Seve shares her journey as an actress, exploring the behind-the-scenes aspects of acting, the emotional depth required in performances, and the importance of self-discovery and healing through art. She reflects on her experiences, the impact of her past, and how creativity is a fundamental part of being human. The discussion emphasizes the connection between personal experiences and artistic expression, highlighting the transformative power of sharing stories and finding inner peace through creativity. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the profound impact of music and art on humanity, emphasizing the importance of choice and empowerment. They discuss the significance of intentionality in creative endeavors, the continuous journey of personal growth, and the essence of acting. The dialogue also delves into the business side of art, the mindset of abundance, and the transformative experience of Butoh dance, culminating in a reflection on the freedom that creativity brings.

In this episode, we sit down with Lily Yawson to explore the intersections of culture, identity, and creativity. With a rich heritage spanning Ghana and Canada, Lily shares insights into how her background influences her artistic journey. From childhood memories to her current projects, Lily invites us into her world, offering a glimpse into the experiences that shape her unique perspective. Join us for a conversation that delves into the heart of what it means to blend diverse cultural influences into a cohesive artistic expression.

The discussion delves into the darker aspects of comedy, the shared experiences between acting and stand-up, and the ongoing struggle to define one's niche in the creative world. With insights on confidence and authenticity, this episode offers a deep look into the life of a comedian and the art of performance. In this engaging conversation, Eric Andrews discusses the importance of pursuing creative joy through various artistic outlets, including stand-up comedy and painting. He reflects on the balance between consistency and creativity in the age of social media, the challenges of sharing personal work, and the fear of vulnerability in the creative process. 

Tara Joshi shares her journey as an actor, writer, and director, discussing the challenges of creativity in the entertainment industry, her experiences growing up in Alberta, and the importance of representation in storytelling. She reflects on her struggles with self-acceptance and the impact of COVID on her creative process, emphasizing the need for boldness and authenticity in performance. Tara also highlights the significance of finding one's voice and the ongoing journey of navigating the complexities of the industry. In this engaging conversation, Tara Joshi discusses the realities of rejection in the creative industry, emphasizing the importance of self-care and maintaining a beginner's mindset. She reflects on the creative process, the challenges faced in the industry, and the evolution of comedy and storytelling. Tara also highlights the significance of writing in acting, the art of collaboration, and the necessity of finding one's place in a story while embracing imperfection and personal growth.

Enrique Miguel Baniqued shares his journey from the Philippines to Canada, exploring the cultural differences and challenges faced as an immigrant. He discusses his transition from a business background to the creative arts, emphasizing the importance of intention and building connections in the film industry. Enrique highlights his collaborative work on the film 'Village Keeper' and reflects on the significance of awards and recognition in his career. The discussion culminates in his aspirations for the future and the impact of his experiences on his creative journey. In this engaging conversation, Enrique Baniqued discusses the importance of perseverance in the film industry, the concept of Wabi Sabi, and the creative compromises faced during filmmaking. He shares personal anecdotes about family connections to his work, the emotional impact of storytelling, and his aspirations to advocate through film.

Nigel Downer shares his creative journey, discussing his passion for improvisation, his extensive collection of fitted hats and sneakers, and memorable experiences with celebrities. He reflects on the importance of nostalgia in his life, favourite Toronto events, and the challenges of maintaining creativity amidst perfectionism. In this engaging conversation, Nigel shares his experiences navigating the frustrations of creative processes, particularly in acting and design. He discusses the rewarding journey of creating 'Bitplayers' with his co-creator Chris Siddiqi, emphasizing the importance of Toronto's identity in their storytelling. Reflecting on his achievements, including hosting the Canadian Screen Awards, Nigel expresses gratitude for his career milestones. The discussion also touches on the evolution of stand-up comedy, highlighting the trend towards crowd work and audience interaction.

In this engaging conversation, Christine Swanson, a director, screenwriter, and teacher, reflects on her journey in the film industry, the challenges of balancing motherhood with her creative aspirations, and the evolution of her artistic expression. She shares insights the impact of her experiences as a mother, and her path to becoming a filmmaker, including her notable work on 'The Clark Sisters' and how she was inspired by Spike Lee. The discussion highlights the resilience and adaptability required in the creative field, as well as the profound understanding of creativity that comes from life experiences.

The discussion highlights the realities of the entertainment industry, the significance of professionalism, and the evolution of relationships within the creative space. In this conversation, Travis J. Sewchan (DJTJ) shares his experiences in the music industry, discussing the technical challenges of live sound engineering, the complexities of professional relationships, and the personal growth that comes from navigating failures. He reflects on his journey to find his true passion in music, the realities of building a career as a DJ, and the financial challenges that artists face.

Connie Manfredi shares her unique perspective on life, creativity, and her love for Diet Coke. The discussion delves into her artistic journey, the challenges of vulnerability in the creative process, and the importance of confidence and ownership in art. Connie's humorous anecdotes and candid reflections provide insight into the mind of a comedian and actor navigating the entertainment industry. Manfredi discusses the balance between logic and emotion in performance, the importance of self-discovery, and the messy nature of the creative process. She reflects on her growth as an artist, the role of education, and the significance of measuring progress while navigating the challenges of the industry.

In this conversation, Erika DeFreitas discusses her artistic journey, focusing on themes of mourning, grief, and self-identity. She shares insights into her Mourning Project, which explores public expressions of grief through art. DeFreitas reflects on personal experiences with loss and how they shape her work, emphasizing the importance of community and shared experiences in the healing process. The discussion also delves into concepts like objecthood and post memory, highlighting the relationship between art, memory, and cultural heritage. Throughout, the impact of light and color in art is explored, revealing how these elements evoke emotions and connect us to our surroundings.

Tyler J. Sloane shares their multifaceted journey as a photographer, visual artist, and performer. They reflect on their education at Red Deer Polytechnic, the challenges of identity and representation in the arts, and the transition from theatre to film. Tyler discusses the impact of life experiences on their artistic expression, the role of fear in creativity, and their aspirations to tell intersectional stories in the film industry. In this conversation, Tyler explores themes of identity, existence, and the impact of their experiences as an adoptee. 

Romaine Waite was born in Montego Bay Jamaica, and raised in Canada. He found his love for performing at an early age when he took drama in high school. However, it wasn’t until he earned a role in an indie film that he realized acting was a career he wanted to pursue.After a small stint in theatre, Romaine would make the transition to film and television with numerous short and independent films. Along with his first network appearance, in the long running Canadian series MURDOCH MYSTERIES (CBC). Shortly after, he earned a recurring co-star role in the Stephen King adaptation THE MIST (Netflix) alongside Isiah Whitlock Jr. (The Wire) and Alyssa Sutherland (Vikings).Romaine has amassed a significant body of work in several other film and television productions including STAR TREK DISCOVERY (CBS), DEPARTURE (Peacock) SCHITT’S CREEK (Netflix), THE CLARK SISTERS (Lifetime) A NEW DIVA'S CHRISTMAS CAROL which was produced by Idris Elba's GREEN DOOR PICTURES for VH1. His recent projects include the feature film TRAPPED IN THE SPOTLIGHT with Monique Coleman and Melyssa Ford. Romaine has also written and produced his second, soon to be released, feature film FOR HIS NAME SAKE. As an actor, Romaine is committed to telling true-to-life stories that not only entertain, but also provoke frank conversations about the human condition and the state of our society. He believes in the positive transformative power of his craft - for himself as an actor and for the viewers as participants in the dialogue.

In this engaging conversation, visual artist Heritier M. Bilaka shares his journey from the Academy of Fine Arts in the Democratic Republic of Congo to becoming an award-winning artist in Canada. He discusses the challenges he faced, including parental skepticism about pursuing art as a career, the impact of loss on his creative process, and the influences that shape his work. Haritier emphasizes the importance of exploring identity, human condition, and the emotional resonance of art, while also reflecting on hope, legacy, and the responsibility of understanding history within the black community. In this conversation, Heritier discusses the importance of questioning official history and understanding one's cultural identity.

Angela Moritsugu shares her journey through the film industry, from her early love for movies to working behind the scenes. She discusses her experiences in arts administration, the challenges of working on set, and her passion for nurturing talent in the film industry. Angela also reflects on her creative endeavours, including a children's film series she created, and her thoughts on film programming and the importance of recognizing transferable skills from individuals with diverse backgrounds.

Allison Edwards Crewe shares her journey as a multifaceted artist, discussing her experiences in theater, the impact of childhood influences on her creativity, and the significance of legacy in the arts. The dialogue explores her role in the Kit Kat commercial, her passion for arranging flowers, and the emotional complexities of grief and mortality as they relate to artistic expression. Additionally, the conversation highlights the importance of representation in the arts, particularly for Black artists, and the creation of the series 'Black Actress' which aims to showcase diverse narratives.

Aaron's background in neuroscience and music cognition informs his approach to art, highlighting the intersection of science and creativity. The discussion concludes with thoughts on the future of art in the age of AI. In this conversation, Aaron discusses the intersection of nostalgia, technology, and creativity in the music industry. He reflects on the impact of digital music and AI on artistic expression, emphasizing the importance of teaching the next generation of artists about the freedom of creativity.

In this engaging conversation, Ucal Schillingford shares his journey as an artist, navigating the complexities of positivity, mental health, and the struggles that come with pursuing a creative career. He discusses the importance of finding wins outside of traditional success, trusting the process, and the shift from a potential career in science to embracing his artistic passions. Ucal emphasizes the desire to create lasting art that resonates with audiences and the therapeutic nature of poetry as a form of self-expression.