For Kapamilya actress Nikki Valdez, taking and being part of quality projects is something she considers leaving as an invaluable legacy in the entertainment industry.
During the first anniversary event of Adoré Skin, Nikki spoke with PUSH ABS-CBN about her nearly three decades-long career and what she wanted to leave as an impact to people.
“28 years now, maybe just more of looking forward to more quality projects, to projects that and roles that will help, send a message and also you know be memorable,” Nikki said.
She added, “I want to be in that business na sasabihin nila na, ‘Wow, she did this, she did that. She was part of this wonderful project,” so, ako nandon nalang ako. I’m not really asking for more.”
“I’m very happy with where I am in the business. Not a lot of people will reach 28 years and counting. So for me, mas grateful nalang talaga ako na nandito pa rin ako and I still have the chance to be able to do the things that I want, and to still do for roles and more projects na pwedeng maging parang contribution ko sa industriya natin,” she expressed.
The actress expressed deep gratitude for her longevity in the industry and the opportunities she still receives to explore meaningful roles.
“I will never forget to celebrate this day because in this industry where no one is indispensable, it is a beautiful reminder that patience, professionalism, the right attitude towards co- workers and hard work really goes a long way and that I am still here... For that, I will always, ALWAYS be grateful,” she wrote in a caption.
When asked about her future plans, Nikki shared that she’s taking a more relaxed approach on navigating her career path.
“Sa ngayon talaga, ako I take it one day at a time kasi I don't want to pressure myself, basta all my dreams are there. Ngayon, if it comes, thank you, ganoon na lang kasi ayokong ma-pressure masyado with, ‘I want to do this, I want to do that’ and the ‘If it doesn’t work,’ parang nakakalungkot ‘di ba? So, ako, one day at a time lang,” she explained.
Earlier this year, Nikki returned to theater through Sandbox Collective’s musical Next to Normal. She admitted that after 14 years away from the stage, she initially struggled and even considered backing out.
“After 14 years of not being in theater, and then doing it again, at first inaamin ko naman na medyo nahirapan din talaga ako. Medyo nag-struggle ako and I almost reached the point of not doing it, and they know this. I keep on joking na ‘Ayoko na. Nahihirapan ako,’” the actress said.
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Overcoming her initial struggle, Nikki is thankful to be able to be part of a project that helped send messages about mental health.
“But, you know, any kind of challenge is a good challenge, nasa sa iyo na lang talaga how to face it and be strong, and I’m glad I did it. And, for me it was more of just you know singing and acting on stage again,” she stated.
Nikki went on, “There was an important message on mental health, so para sa akin, I was in the right place and the right time. And I’m really glad I accepted the project para magkaroon ng awareness sa mga tao, especially sa mental health.”