News | 08 June 2026
From Netflix Breakthrough to Leading Lady
At just 17 years old, IES Kista alumna Ms Tina Salih has already established herself as a rising acting talent. Following her breakthrough role as Rana in the global Netflix hit Snabba Cash, she is currently captivating audiences as the lead character, Wahida, in the SVT drama series Yani.
Photo credit: Malin LQ, Publisher: SVT
Yet behind the glamour of production lights lies a story of fierce determination, structured discipline, and the vital school support that kept her academic dreams on track.
Ms Salih’s journey to the screen began purely by chance in Husby when she landed a role as an extra in the film Bullets, which subsequently led to her auditioning for Snabba Cash. At the time, she was just a year seven student at IES Kista. Suddenly thrust into the professional film industry while navigating the escalating academic demands of school, she faced a formidable balancing act.
Maintaining high grades was non-negotiable for Ms Salih, who was determined to secure a place at her preferred upper secondary school (gymnasiet). Fortunately, the leadership and teaching staff at IES Kista stepped in immediately to ensure she did not have to choose between her education and her burgeoning career.
"They were wonderfully supportive right from the start! At IES, there is a very clear structure and high academic expectations, but that also means there is a fantastic safety net when a student needs extra guidance," Ms Salih said.
By collaborating closely with Ms Salih and her family, teachers designed a personalised study plan. This structured approach allowed her to stay completely on top of her assignments, even during intense filming days on set.
The power of grit
The intensive schedule naturally took its toll. After wrapping production on Snabba Cash, Tina made the mature decision to step back from the cameras to focus entirely on her final year of compulsory education. During year nine, she dedicated 100% of her energy to her studies, leaning heavily on the encouragement of her educators.
"The teachers at IES Kista truly demonstrated what we call grit – they never gave up on me and constantly encouraged me to challenge myself academically. Because we worked so purposefully together, I managed to significantly boost my grades during the final term."
“Accept all the guidance and encouragement your teachers offer
– they genuinely want to see you succeed.”
This final academic push proved successful, earning her acceptance into her first-choice gymnasium. After this academic hiatus, Ms Salih rediscovered her passion for the craft, successfully answering an open casting call on Instagram to land her current lead role in Yani – a series adapted from Nora Khalil’s celebrated youth novel.
The self-discipline, punctuality, and focus required to learn extensive scripts and endure long hours on set, Ms Salih notes, are the same principles cultivated during her time at school. For current students harbouring big ambitions of their own, her message is clear:
“Accept all the guidance and encouragement your teachers offer – they genuinely want to see you succeed. If you stay structured and work hard, it is entirely possible to balance your external passions with excellent academic results. It all comes down to having the right determination and fighting for your goals.”