Katricia Kariuki, also known as Coco Kariuki, is a rising actress in the film industry. Coco has a profound passion for storytelling and a dedication to playing characters in films. She is a graduate of the prestigious American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in both Los Angeles and New York. Coco recently starred in the film Nyumbani, directed by Alana Muchemi. Read further as we have the latest news and confirmed award info!
Coco’s Role in Award-Winning Short Film Nyumbani
In Nyumbani, Coco Kariuki takes on the role of Wacera, one half of a dynamic duo alongside Ama, two recent African culinary graduates with a shared dream: opening their own restaurant in the United States.
Nyumbani: A Story of Dreams, Friendship, and Sacrifice
Nyumbani delves into the challenges and triumphs of Ama and Wacera as they navigate the complexities of pursuing their culinary aspirations. The film explores themes of friendship, ambition, cultural identity, and the sacrifices required to achieve one’s dreams.
As the film unfolds, the pressure mounts on Ama and Wacera as they prepare for the crucial soft opening of their restaurant. Secretly, Wacera grapples with self-doubt and intense homesickness, questioning their readiness to enter the competitive culinary world. Her insecurities are further fueled when she hides from Ama her rejection of a financial offer from her mother, money that could significantly ease their startup costs.
Ama, portrayed as the optimistic and driven partner, remains focused on realizing their shared vision. However, unbeknownst to Wacera, Ama has also been accepted into a prestigious culinary fellowship in Cape Town, a life-changing opportunity that could jeopardize their partnership.
The night of the soft opening becomes a pivotal moment, with tensions escalating as Ama confronts Wacera about the rejected money. Wacera’s fears are brought to the surface, compounded by Temi’s revelation of Ama’s fellowship. Their friendship and business partnership hang in the balance as they confront their personal aspirations and the sacrifices they are willing to make for their dreams and for each other.
The film culminates in an intense friendship breakup, leading Ama to leave the restaurant. A flash forward of five years reveals Wacera having successfully opened “Nyumbani,” her dream realized. The film poignantly concludes with Ama and Wacera reconnecting, suggesting the enduring power of their bond despite the challenges they faced.
Alana Muchemi: The Director Behind the Story
Alana Muchemi, an African American filmmaker, is the visionary director behind Nyumbani. As an alumna of Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts, Alana brings a unique perspective to her filmmaking, drawing on her experiences of living between the United States and Eastern Africa. Her work explores the intricacies of bicultural identity and the emotional journeys of African international students navigating life between two worlds. Alana is committed to creating films that not only entertain but also promote understanding and connection across cultures.
Supporting Cast and Recognition
Karma Carr, a well-known influencer, brings her talent to the film in the role of Temi.
Nyumbani has won significant recognition, earning awards at several international film festivals, including
- Los Angeles Stars International Film Festival: Best Short Film
- Kollywood International Film Festival: Best International Short Film
- Crown Wood International Film Festival: Best Indie Short
- Kodaikanal International Film Festival: Best Actress (Katricia Kariuki), Best Women’s Short Film, Special Mention Award, Best US Short Film
- TAMIZHAGAM INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL: Best Script Screenplay
- Makizhmithran International Film Festival: Best Woman’s Short Film, Best International Short Film
- Kodaikanal International Film Festival: Best Cinematography
- Bangkok Movie Awards
We asked Coco what keeps her grounded and focused during performances. Coco shared her personal approach:
“I work a lot with breath and body connection before and during a performance. I use physical alignment techniques to release unnecessary tension and maintain an open channel between thought and action. It helps me remain neutral, not emotionally, but physically, so that I can respond rather than anticipate.
I also journal in character voice before most performances or scenes. That’s less about creating backstory and more about getting into the character’s current mindset without relying on intellectualization. In the moment thoughts about what they’re afraid of and what they wish they could say but can’t. That immediacy helps me stay honest when the camera rolls.
Working with scene partners who are also engaged and generous is another anchor. When both people are committed to truth rather than performance, staying present becomes instinctual. In moments where my focus wavers, which happens, I return to breath and to the physical sensations of the space I’m in: texture, temperature, gravity. That simple awareness often brings me back to the moment.”
Actress Coco Kariuki is already making an impact in the film industry with well-honored films. Be sure to follow her on her official social sites to keep up with all the latest and more!
