Nollywood actress Bolaji Ogunmola has opened up about the difficult challenges she faced during her early days in the Nigerian film industry, revealing how her physical appearance often determined the type of roles she was offered.
Struggles with Stereotyping
In a recent interview, the movie star disclosed that filmmakers heavily stereotyped her because of her curvy body shape and dark complexion. She explained that producers and directors tried to restrict her to certain characters, making it hard for her to break into lead roles.
Speaking in a YouTube interview with social media personality Joseph Onaolapo, popularly known as Jay On-Air, Ogunmola recounted how she was constantly pushed into playing 'side chick' roles instead of being considered for more diverse characters.
'It was almost like they wanted to put me in a box,' she said. 'I am dark-skinned. There was a time when light-skinned people were reigning, and they told me I was very curvy and tried to limit me to 'side chick' roles.'
Journey into Nollywood
Her journey into Nollywood began with the Next Movie Star reality show, where she did not make it into the final house. Despite that setback, she described her path as tough but consistent, saying she kept pushing through the challenges.
Choosing Entrepreneurship Over Office Jobs
Bolaji Ogunmola also shared how she ventured into business early in her career, choosing entrepreneurship over traditional office jobs. She explained that she never wanted the routine of a nine-to-five and preferred to build something meaningful for herself.
'I just wanted my life to have meaning at that time. I am not somebody who likes to sit at home; I wanted to do something. I never wanted to do 9-5. It's not just me. Shoutout to people who do it, I applaud you. But for me, I am business-savvy like that,' she stated.
Lessons on Financial Discipline and Mentorship
The actress emphasized the importance of financial discipline and preparing for life beyond fame, urging creatives to invest and diversify their income.
'Life is in phases. You are popular today, you may not be tomorrow. What are you doing to put food on the table? You should be investing, positioning yourself from now. I have always been that kind of person, so I always have something else I am doing,' she advised.
Ogunmola credited filmmaker Biodun Stephen for mentoring her, describing her as a strong influence on her professional growth.
'Before you lead, serve. A lot of the things I learnt were from other producers. Biodun Stephen was my first teacher when it comes to movie production. Every time I am on set, I am watching her,' she said.
Addressing Rumours with Daniel Etim-Effiong
Earlier, Ogunmola addressed public reactions surrounding her romantic movie scenes with actor Daniel Etim-Effiong. She explained that many viewers often struggle to separate acting from real life, adding that all the romantic scenes they shared were strictly professional and scripted.
She also stated that Daniel Etim-Effiong's wife understands the nature of acting and never misunderstood their working relationship, stressing that they are not close outside movie sets.
