Name//

Hi, my name is Safyan Iqbal.

Pronouns//

My pronouns are Him / He.

Creative Practice//

Overall, I am an actor, podcaster, songwriter, youtuber, writer, filmmaker and facilitator of workshops.

Tell us about your work overall and your recent projects //

Recently, I have completed a shadow artist opportunity with Leila Navabi’s REPLAY for standup comedy with TEAM Cymru. I thoroughly enjoyed getting the opportunity to observe and understand their vision and plan to create my own comedy one day in the future.

I went to comic con in Liverpool to meet my dream team, THE FLASH, and I have decided to vlog the video for promotional view and talk about it combining my hobbies and self-development. If you want to watch my vlog video it is at the bottom of this page.

I currently write my own short film in my spare time.

Also, I worked in the role of Creative Associate with Isik Kaya’s for her theatre show ‘MUTE MESSIAH’

How did you start your path into what you are doing now? //

When I was a child, I watched tv shows such as TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES and JUSTICE LEAGUE. I was inspired as a viewer for me to become an actor, however, being a young Deaf child, I couldn't speak or sign at the time and there was a lack of representation in Deaf actors on screen, so I had no choice but to focus more on the behind the scenes type of creative work such as filmmaking rather than acting.

I went through intensive Speech & Language therapy and fast forward 18 years later, began to explore and then I found other Deaf artists that blew me away, so I decided to try again and pursue my dream of acting and started to get roles.

I didn’t have role model to look up to that resonated with me back then but my hobbies remained strongly in the creative field. I fully enjoyed all things creative and I kept on going and didn’t give up, and it’s actually quite emotional to acknowledge that I’ve managed to turn them into a paid career as a creative freelancer.

How do collaboration and community influence your work? //

I worked with TEAM YOUNG COLLECTIVE to play the character of SCROO in their production of ‘THE LAST FLOWER’ and also worked as a Creative Associate on Isik Kaya’s theatre production ‘MUTE MESSIAH’.

I also took part in a shadow artist opportunity with Leila Navabi’s REPLAY for stand-up comedy, supported by TEAM Cymru. This experience helped me understand how comedy can be made inclusive and accessible, and it inspired me to one day create my own stand-up performance that brings Deaf joy and humour to the stage.

We worked well together because we had strong communication and a shared passion for creating joyful, accessible storytelling that connects with diverse audiences.

Our collaboration was built on mutual respect, creativity, and the belief that everyone should feel seen and included in the arts.

What do you love about the creative sector in Wales? //

I am a Deaf and a South Asian creative based in Wales. I love using art to show who I am, break down barriers, and make sure everyone feels included. Many people told me I don’t belong because I’m Deaf and South Asian, but I’ve proved that Deaf people can succeed in any career.

I’m proud to be the first Deaf member of staff at Wales Millennium Centre’s Radio Platform, and I’ve proven that despite misconceptions that Deaf people are unable to work in a radio environment, that I can indeed succeed in radio, and I hope my journey encourages other young Deaf individuals to believe in themselves and pursue the careers they’re passionate about.

As a South Asian creative based in Wales, I know how rare it is to see people like me represented in the Welsh arts scene. That’s why I’m passionate about being visible, positive, and authentic in everything I do, to show other young Muslim and South Asian creatives that they can take up space, tell their stories, and thrive in this industry.

Through acting, podcasting, and making content, I aim to inspire others, challenge outdated narratives, and create art that reflects real, diverse experiences. This isn’t just a career, it’s who I am. I want to inspire others. I work hard to represent my communities in a positive way and be a role model for young Deaf, South Asian creatives. Art has always been a part of who I am, it’s how I express myself, connect with others, and create space for voices that often go unheard.

- Where else can we find you? //

You can find my website here - https://safyaniqbal.com
My social links, podcast and more info here - https://solo.to/safyaniqbal