Q&A – Vic Santoro

 “You’re going to get the full emotion of what I’ve been through, and you’re going to get the elated feeling of knowing anything is possible if you work towards it.”

Vic Santoro has had a stormy path to stardom, navigating family crisis, a move from Cameroon to London, life on the streets, and prison.

Released in 2015, he is approaching this next chapter of his life with grace and passion.

Reading and reciting poetry and studying English Literature was his entry point into rap music.

Public speaking and acting beckoned, with considerable success, although he is clear on his priority.

“Music is my purpose,” he says. “It’s my destiny.”

We were eager to learn more about such a multi faceted character.

Hi Vic! How has the pandemic affected your mental health?

The pandemic has been a test to my mental health.

Being idle caused me to revisit past traumas, but generally, I have got through it ok.

Are you doing anything differently to look after your mental health during this period?

Yes I’m definitely doing some things differently.

Making sure I have a day to day routine, setting daily objectives.

I found if I’m busy, then my thoughts will not drift off to anything negative.

What are you looking forward to doing once things improve?

Once things improve, I think I need to exercise outdoors more.

Going for runs has really been good for my mental health.

It also gives me something to look forward to everyday.

What new TV, films, music or books have you discovered during lockdown that you’d recommend?

I would recommend a book called The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle.

What advice would you give to a 16 year old you?

I would tell him to speak to someone about how he feels, instead of holding it in.

I would also tell him a rose can grow from concrete so be patient.

Self belief is priceless.

If you had to draw a pie chart for what keeps you mentally well – what would it look like? (eg 30% family 10% exercise etc)

Hmm let me see … I would say 25% Gym, 15% work, 10% family, 50% my children.

What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about leaving a legacy for my children, and living a life worth remembering.

Tell us something not many people know about you?

I used to like eating raw onions, it was a bit of an addiction.

What’s the biggest challenge/s you’ve faced and how did you overcome it/them?

My biggest challenge is dealing with the death of my grandmother.

To be honest I haven’t yet figured out a way to overcome it.

I just feel extra motivated to make something of my life.

I want to make her proud.