This video is made with the support of NZ on Air Public Interest Journalism Fund.
By Sanele Chadwick
Richard Fa'avesi had always dreamed of being in the creative scene.
He thought about becoming a rapper, a Broadway actor but has now settled as a stand-up comedian.
What makes his creative journey more impressive is where he's come from.
A former gang member who spent years behind bars, Fa'avesi now uses his past experiences to influence his comedy.
He's now turned his life around with the help of faith and comedy and hopes to inspire others to do the same.
This article was originally published by The Big Idea