Although I have a lot of performing experience, my first paid job was just last year, after 12 years attending castings in London and doing self-taping auditions. This one came about through Instagram. My agent and I have a great work ethic; I always nudge for jobs I see on Spotlight and if I am going for jobs independently, I always copy the agency into the correspondence. This was one where I answered the social media callout and, having notified my agent, got a self-tape that turned into a recall.

The recall was with director David Whitney, who has a wealth of credits. I was nervous to meet him via Zoom, along with the producer and casting agent. I knew to be prepared for changes in the recall audition, and David talked me through the idea he had for the set on the day. He led me through my audition with slight changes. I think listening is the key in recalls and in takes. I did make a few mistakes during the latter, but David was brilliant and we ended up having a good laugh about it.

Research is key – on the product, production or director. The one thing I would do differently next time is not take myself so seriously, learn to relax and trust the process.

The reason I mention it’s taken me 12 years to get my first ‘official’ job is to encourage others to just go for it. You never know until you try. After years of training and work as a supporting artist, on reality TV, in radio and videos, I truly believe you can achieve anything your heart desires. Don’t listen to people who say “that’s not a real job” – it is! Negative people will try to deter you. Don’t let them.

I started dancing and competing at eight years old. I learned very quickly that it’s strictly business and very tough. Acting is very competitive too. Be strong and believe In yourself. Just because the casting director didn’t pick you for a certain job, doesn’t mean they won’t remember you for a future role. When they do, be on time and be kind to the runner, the crew – to everyone. Don’t think you are better than anyone else.

CV Fabia-Maria Cerra

Age: 51
Training: Actors Studio, Pinewood; The Reel Scene; Run At It Shouting 
Theatre includes: The IT Desk (Oxford Playhouse); Slam Minutes Goes Mental (The Vault); Good/Bye (Digital Production/Cockpit Theatre) 
TV/Radio includes: Britain’s Got Talent (ITV); BBC Radio Oxfordshire and Kiss FM
Agent: Lucy Harrison Casting