Funke Akindele needs no introduction now having conquered the Nigerian Movie scene and made her presence felt through the phenomenal success of her movie ‘Jenifa’ and other works. In spite of her success and fame, we found her warm, down to earth and fun to be around. We are glad to present a glimpse at the lady everyone would love to spend an afternoon with.
Perfect Harmony Magazine: How would you describe yourself?
Funke Akindele: I am down to earth, totally unpretentious. I am a goal getter but also a stylish person. Most important, is the fact that I am a devout Christian.
PHM: When did you start acting? Have you always had a love for the dramatic arts or did something or someone influence you along the way?
Funke Akindele: 1996, I appeared first in a movie titled “Naked Wire”. It was produced by Opa Williams. My major role debut was in a serial drama on teenage reproductive health titled “I Need To Know”. It was sponsored by UNFPA. For me, acting had been a childhood dream.
PHM: One may be tempted to think your success came over night with the “Jenifa”. However we know it doesn’t happen that way. At what point did you begin to consider yourself successful in your chosen field?
Funke Akindele: I began to feel that I was succeeding when I produced my first movie titled “Ojo Ketala” in 2004
PHM: What price have you had to pay to attain succeed? Did you meet with any discouragement or encouragement from friends and family?
Funke Akindele: My family encouraged me all the way, especially my mum. To the glory of God I had no price to pay because God has always been with me.
PHM: What part have you enjoyed playing the most?
Funke Akindele: I am a professional to the core and as one, I shouldn’t limit myself to a particular role. I have tremendously enjoyed playing the roles I have had the opportunity to play.
PHM: What part has been your most challenging?
Funke Akindele: Till date, I am yet to find one so challenging. It has been a lot of fun playing these roles.
PHM: Most of your movies are in Yoruba, is this mere coincidence or do you find that your creative juice flows better and your message more potent when expressed in this language?
Funke Akindele: I am familiar with the Yoruba market trend but I hope to produce an English movie soon by Gods grace.
PHM: What other languages do you speak?
Funke Akindele: I speak English and Yoruba but I am learning French.
PHM: Are you from Aiyetoro? Do you have any relationship with this town which, thanks to you, is now squarely on the Nigerian cultural map?
Funke Akindele: No! I am from Ikorodu L.G.A.
PHM: What new doors have been opened to you since your recent success?
Funke Akindele: They are too numerous to count and I’m grateful to God.
PHM: Amongst Nigerians at home and in Diaspora, I dare say your popularity is only rivalled by that of Obama. How does that make you feel?
Funke Akindele: I feel truly honoured and I give all the glory to God.
PHM: Do you feel a weight of responsibility to live up to this role of being a model for young people to look up to?
Funke Akindele: Yes, I really do. And I pray to God for the grace to sustain and retain it.
PHM: What is your founding philosophy, what are your core values?
Funke Akindele: I have learnt never to rely on my own understanding. I detest liars, cheats and pretentious people. I believe I am also a highly principled individual.
PHM: Who would you consider most influential in your career success?
Funke Akindele: I can readily think of Joke Sylva, Kate Henshaw and Bukky Wright. They have been of great influence.
PHM: Your work has distinct undertones of social responsibility and volunteerism, are these principles you hold dear?
Funke Akindele: Yes! I believe in impacting peoples lives.
PHM: Do you commit a lot of time, skills and other resources to these?
Funke Akindele: Do I have a choice? It’s my calling and God given talent, of which I shall account. So I have to commit every available resource to it. By God’s grace I will leave a lasting legacy that will make radical changes in the lives of generations to come.
PHM: What avenues or organizations do you use to express your concern for humanity?
Funke Akindele: Plans are in top gear towards achieving this aim. I’ll certainly let you know as soon as I’m ready on this pet project that is dear to my heart.
PHM: You are fast becoming a style icon. That hot little number you spotted in the party scene in “Jenifa” was fantastic especially what you returned from the police station the next morning. Those legs were to die for. Where do you get your good looks, your mum or your dad?
Funke Akindele: Sincerely, from my mum. I’m also in touch with latest fashion trends via the internet and the media.
PHM: Is there any part of your body you wish were different?
Funke Akindele: No! I’m grateful to God for the splendid body He has given me.
PHM: Would you indulge in plastic surgery to alter anything?
Funke Akindele: God forbid! I wouldn’t change a thing.
PHM: What are your favourite outfits and accessories?
Funke Akindele: I’m most comfortable in jeans except on special occasions.
PHM: What is your favourite shopping destination and do you have a favourite designer?
Funke Akindele: I do most of my shopping abroad. I’m not a designer freak but make the effort to buy what suits my style. I have my own distinct style and I am not easily swayed.
PHM: How do you relax or ease tension?
Funke Akindele: I love to relax by simply spending time with my family. The best things in life are free. The love of my family is a great joy to me.
PHM: Who would you say is most influential in making you the woman you are today?
Funke Akindele: My mum has had the greatest influence in my life. I would not be the woman I am today without her strength, influence and support.
Look out for the Full Interview on our new look site this quater.
