Derek M. Puma is a multifaceted American actor, whose remarkable stage presence and exceptional ability to portray complex characters have garnered widespread recognition. Born on December 24th, 1989, in Rome, New York, Puma's ancestry is a rich and diverse blend of cultural heritage, with his roots tracing back to Sicily and the Seneca Nation, also known as the Haudenosaunee.
Puma's captivating journey in the world of performing arts began at an astonishingly young age of six, when he embarked on a modeling career that would lay the foundation for his future endeavors. His father's restaurant, strategically situated adjacent to the esteemed 'The Capitol' theater, served as a nurturing environment that fostered Puma's creative growth. The restaurant's proximity to the theater allowed Puma to frequently attend live productions, which ignited a burning passion for acting within him. This early exposure to the performing arts had a profound impact on Puma, inspiring him to participate in school plays and eventually paving the way for his higher education.
Puma's artistic journey began at Mohawk Valley Community College, where he enthusiastically pursued his passion for acting by enrolling in a multitude of classes. These academic endeavors allowed him to refine his acting skills, gaining valuable experience and knowledge in the process.
In addition to his formal education, Puma also had the privilege of participating in community theater productions. These performances provided him with a platform to showcase his talents, receiving constructive feedback from peers and mentors alike.
Furthermore, Puma's association with the college's mascot, 'Mo' the Hawk,' played a significant role in his development as a performer. By embodying the mascot, he deepened his connection to the performing arts, fostering a sense of camaraderie with his fellow students and staff.
Through these various experiences, Puma cultivated a strong foundation in the performing arts, setting the stage for his future endeavors in the entertainment industry.
Puma, a multi-talented individual, has ventured beyond his acting career to explore the realm of literary pursuits. In 2013, he proudly released his debut book, "The Message", a captivating work that embodies his remarkable ability to craft inspiring narratives. This publication, replete with uplifting and positive content, serves as a testament to his exceptional storytelling prowess. Since then, Puma has continued to hone his craft, dedicating his attention to the art of songwriting and storytelling, further solidifying his reputation as a masterful wordsmith.
Puma embarked on an exciting new venture in the world of filmmaking, donning multiple hats as both the writer, director, producer, and voiceover artist for his own short film, 'A Message Told', which premiered in 2017. This marked a significant milestone in his creative journey, as he demonstrated his versatility and range as a storyteller.
Puma's extensive professional tenure has encompassed a diverse array of pursuits, with a notable stint as a professional mascot for an American Hockey League (AHL) team, which has a strong affiliation with the esteemed Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League (NHL),in the year 2018.
Subsequent to this experience, Puma redirected his primary professional focus towards the realm of acting, specifically targeting opportunities within the film and television industries, in the year 2019.
In the year 2022, Puma embarked on a new chapter in his professional journey, relocating to the vibrant city of Nashville, Tennessee, where he continued to build upon his impressive repertoire of roles in various mediums, including films, television series, music videos, and commercials. One of his most notable achievements during this period was securing a prominent feature in the esteemed sports network ESPN, further solidifying his status as a talented and versatile actor.
As his career continued to flourish, Puma's remarkable story of perseverance and dedication was also featured in Nashville Voyager Magazine, a publication renowned for highlighting the city's most inspiring and creative individuals. This publication provided a platform for Puma to share his journey, showcasing the unwavering commitment he has demonstrated in pursuing his passion for acting, and serving as a testament to the power of following one's dreams.
Through his tireless efforts and unwavering passion, Puma has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry, and his story serves as a beacon of inspiration for anyone pursuing a career in the arts.
In the year 2023, a significant milestone was achieved by Puma, as he took on the starring role of 'Koda' in the captivating short film 'The Squirrel Whisperer', marking a major breakthrough in his acting career.
Throughout his professional journey, Puma has been steadfastly guided by his boundless imagination and creativity, which has led him to explore a diverse range of artistic mediums, including cosplay, writing, acting, and even donning the persona of a professional mascot, thereby allowing him to share his extraordinary passion with a wide audience.
At the core of Puma's very being lies an unwavering passion for spreading merriment and delight to those around him, and he has successfully channeled this enthusiasm into a diverse and vibrant career that has captivated audiences far and wide within the realm of the entertainment industry.
