By: Naiia Lajoie   We at Manila Up! Magazine love championing our local Fil-Am community while also bringing you the latest and greatest from Los Angeles’ entertainment industry. So, when we received word that a Filipina American landed the lead role in not only one, but TWO Reel One Entertainment productions, we knew we had to feature her. Philippines-born Nikki McKenzie is a testament to her roots by harnessing what one might call “stereotypical” Filipino talents (a flair for television and a lover of love stories) while also showcasing the culture. Born in the Philippines and raised in Northern California, the actress moved to LA to attend college and pursue her dream. From there, like all LA-based artists – particularly minorities – she plugged away at her craft, only to see little to moderate success and a lot of close calls. Nikki felt disheartened with the industry and its lack of opportunities for Filipino actors, until an audition for a lead female role in a meet-cute romcom came across her radar. The Wedding Contest, according to IMDb, follows the story of “When a couple can’t decide on a wedding theme, they hire two wedding planners, Taylor and Ben, to compete for the job by proposing two very different styles.” What ensues is a not-so-friendly competition between the two that inevitably morphs into something more. Initially, Nikki was going to pass on the opportunity, figuring that no production would hire a Filipina as a lead role. Cut to Nikki falling in love with the script, submitting an audition, and 2 days later booking the role. In fact, the producers were so in love with her contribution to the character that they also cast her in another romcom A Vineyard Christmas. An elated Nikki made an even greater...... Read more on Full Issue!