Cengiz Dervis was born in England and began training in martial arts at the age of five. Over the years he competed extensively, becoming a world kickboxing champion, martial arts master, and respected coach. His passion for storytelling later led him to train as an actor—first in London, then through further study in New York and Los Angeles. He honed his craft in student films and fringe theatre before moving on to lead roles in award-winning festival shorts, independent features, and larger film and television productions. Drawing on his deep knowledge of movement, discipline, and cinematic action, Cengiz has also coordinated on-screen action for several film and TV projects. As a creator, he continues to write and develop multiple film and television scripts, alongside releasing a growing body of published work, including a graphic novel and children’s books, with more titles in progress. A multi-disciplinary artist, he also composes original music available on iTunes and Spotify under the names Cengiz, Cengiz Dervis, and Strode Road.