My first comedy hero was Victoria Wood. She was the comedian my whole family would gather around the television to watch, and her material felt like it belonged to us. Her jokes became long-running household catchphrases: ‘Mum, are there any biscuits?’ or: ‘Is it on the trolley?’ Even now, those lines take me straight back to that feeling of comfort and shared laughter.

As I grew older, though, I realised how few comedians reflected my own experience of being dual heritage and navigating family life between the Middle East and the West. That changed when I discovered Shappi Khorsandi. Her comedy was sharp, hilarious and deeply relatable. Even her stories about the social antics of her political father struck a chord, making me feel truly seen. Years later, not only did I get the chance to gig with Shappi, but we became close friends. She even accompanied me when I recorded my appearance on Live At The Apollo; a surreal and unforgettable full-circle moment.

Another of my comedy heroes is Jen Brister. I first met Jen at a gig in Surrey, back when I was just starting out. I’d already heard about her reputation as a formidable force on the circuit, and when I finally saw her perform, she lived up to every word. Unapologetically brilliant, she delivered punchlines with the speed and precision of machine-gun fire. Years later, Jen went on to host that very first episode of Live At The Apollo that I performed on; an absolute dream come true. Soon after that, I saw Jess Fostekew for the first time. Jess could read out a menu and have the audience in stitches. She is hilarious, warm and razor-sharp, with a presence that fills the room. That same quality is something I also admire in Zoe Lyons. Both Jess and Zoe have a gentle brilliance combined with complete self-assurance, and watching them is not just entertaining but genuinely inspiring.

Esther Manito: Slagbomb is on tour until Friday 27 February; main picture: Steve Best.