WOMEN OF THE ISLANDS - ADYHANA URIKA FILIFILIA
Adyhana Urika Filifilia
Samoan
Singer / Songwriter / Actor
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Emerging Samoan vocalist and theatre performer Adyhana Urika Filifilia has decided to take the plunge and release her debut single, 'Anchor'!
From her roots in the performing arts to her journey of finding her voice as a solo musician, she reflects on the personal and cultural influences that shape her sound.
Drawing strength and inspiration from her Samoan heritage. ‘Anchor’ is an insight into her thoughts and feelings as a young Pasefika woman growing up in New Zealand, juggling the complexities of traditions and expectations in parallel with the desire to carve a unique path in this modern world, whilst still remaining grounded in who you are.
A good friend of The Coconet TV, she sits down with us talk about her new single and the exciting new journey ahead.
Tell us about your new song! What was the inspiration behind your debut single 'Anchor'?
"Anchor" is a piece I wrote during my final year of high school, with one of my close friends accompanying me on guitar. We had originally planned to perform it at the Smoke-Free Tangata Beats competition, but when that opportunity didn’t materialise, I never had the chance to perform or revisit it until now. This song has always been deeply personal, something I kept just for myself.
It was written during a time when I struggled to find my grounding—in my beliefs, identity, culture, education, and understanding who I truly am. "Anchor" tells a story I’ve been trying to share, one that my words couldn't fully capture. Through this piece, I wanted to express the challenge of staying grounded in a world of pressures and expectations.
Despite these struggles, the desire to succeed remains, and the anchor that keeps us steady is our faith in Christ, the support of our families, and the core beliefs that define who we are.
You have a background in the performing arts, most notably in your work with ‘Sau E Siva Creatives.’ How did those experiences shape your approach to music and performance?
My background in the performing arts, particularly my work with my performing arts family, Sau e Siva Creatives, has been an eye-opening journey, offering new perspectives on art and storytelling. I started at the age of nine with my first show, 'Pollyhood in Mumuland', and I’ve been supported and challenged ever since by Troy Tu’ua, Bob Savea, Idalene Ati, Italia Hunt, and Leki Jackson-Bourke.
While I’ve always been comfortable with singing, it wasn’t until joining Sau e Siva Creatives that I was introduced to a professional level of acting and the importance of embracing my cultural identity through Siva Samoa and storytelling through song.
In this space, I’ve felt welcomed, supported, and truly heard as a young Brown Pacific Island woman. It’s incredible how this environment has opened doors for my music and performing arts career, and I am the artist I am today because of the guidance and mentorship of these extraordinary individuals.
Their unwavering passion for the arts and storytelling, especially for our people, is truly unmatched, and I stand on their shoulders with deep gratitude.
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Anyone familiar with who you are will know that you’ve always been a strong vocalist. What made you decide to pursue music and start recording?
I have always felt uncertain about putting myself forward as an individual artist, particularly when sharing and recording my music. However, my village is undeniably the foundation that has allowed me to dream and pursue music. My family: my parents, siblings, aunties, uncles, and the entire whanau, along with my closest music teachers and friends, have been the driving forces behind this journey.
Their unwavering support and belief in me have been crucial in turning this dream into reality, for which I am eternally grateful. The sacrifices made by many to help me reach this point continually challenge me to overcome doubts and push beyond my limits. In many ways, this achievement is not just mine; it is a WIN for my entire village.
You’ve performed on some of Auckland’s biggest stages, what was one performance that stood out to you?
One performance that particularly stands out in my journey was my debut as a lead actor in the theatre production 'Alatini' with Sau E Siva Creatives [whose third season was performed at SkyCity Theatre]. This marked a significant milestone in my life and my career in the performing arts. The experience was transformative, as it felt like a profound period of growth.
Being entrusted with the role of Princess Kalani, directed by Troy Tu'ua, imbued the story with a personal significance, almost as if it were my own to convey. Kalani’s struggle between her strict Samoan father and her desire to explore the world independently resonated deeply with me and, no doubt, with many Pacific Islander children. It is a universal theme of longing for autonomy and self-discovery.
Beyond the performance itself, the experience of connecting with my fellow cast members on a deeper level was invaluable. I felt particularly moved by the opportunity to engage with the younger girls in the audience, hoping to inspire them to one day see themselves on that stage or, at the very least, to foster the confidence to take on life’s challenges fearlessly.
I vividly recall stepping out into the foyer after my debut performance, only to be greeted by a group of young girls, all eager and excited to meet ‘Princess Kalani.’ Their enthusiasm, coupled with the flood of questions they asked, was a powerful reminder of the impact our work can have. At that moment, I realised, “This is why I do what I do.” It was a profound affirmation of the importance of representation and the connection we can create through storytelling.
Adyhana is also no stranger to screen acting, having appeared in both seasons of The Coconet TV Original Series, 'Fresh Fairytales'
Who are your biggest musical influences, and how do they shape your sound?
My biggest musical influences include Araadhana, Fiji, Nesian Mystik, Vaniah Toloa, and countless other Pacific Island artists. They’ve taught me the importance of staying grounded in our identities, no matter where music takes us. Whether it's our cultural heritage or our personal beliefs, these are the aspects of ourselves that no one can ever take away.
Being rooted in who I am as an artist and understanding the purpose behind my music is what has guided me. When I sing, I carry with me the spirit of my village, family, ancestors, and the Pacific. Every note and every word I sing is a reflection of those who have come before me and is a gift that I am not afraid to use.
What is the message you want to share with your audience through your music and your journey as an artist?
I intend to continue sharing the power of storytelling through music and song, demonstrating that there are no limits to how we can express ourselves. Our identity, culture, and beliefs define us and keep us grounded. Music, one of the world’s most universal gifts, can bridge differences and strengthen bonds.
I also believe no journey is ever without its challenges. When something is meant to be, it will unfold, but nothing will happen unless you take action. The key lies in perseverance and making the effort to create the opportunities you seek.
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This interview has been edited for clarity, conciseness, and flow, while maintaining the original intent of the responses