Akin Lewis: How Criticism and Insults Propelled His Nollywood Ascent
Veteran Nigerian actor Akin Lewis has opened up about the challenging early days of his career in the film industry, detailing how facing harsh criticism for his unconventional career choice only fueled his determination to succeed. Lewis, recently honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural Black Merit Awards, reflected on the negative remarks he encountered when he opted for acting instead of pursuing more traditional professions such as medicine or engineering.
Turning Insults into Motivation
In a candid revelation, Lewis explained that the disparaging comments he received became a driving force in his life. "They called us dropouts because I was not a doctor, engineer, or anything like that," he said. "For me, it became a lifetime objective. I went back to school and worked harder, even earning a doctorate degree. But I remained focused on acting. Today, I am grateful." He emphasized that his journey is far from over, stating, "We are not done yet; we are still here and still working."
Shared Experiences of Perseverance
Fellow actor Yemi Solade also shared his own story of overcoming family resistance when he chose a career in the creative industry. Solade noted that despite initially being ostracized for not meeting family expectations, his perseverance has ultimately paid off. "When I look back, I don't regret working under Prof. Wole Soyinka," he said. "My family initially distanced themselves from me, but today, I don't even know who my number one fan is anymore. I've spent nearly 50 years in acting and I'm still going strong." He expressed deep appreciation for the recognition from the Black Merit Awards, describing it as both significant and meaningful.
The Mission of the Black Merit Awards
The Black Merit Awards, as explained by its Chief Executive Officer Toyin Black, serves as a vital platform celebrating outstanding individuals of African descent who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and impact across various sectors. These sectors range from the arts and enterprise to science and social advocacy. "Whether in Lagos, London, Atlanta, or Accra, the Black Merit Awards is a beacon of celebration," Black stated. "Representation is not just visibility, it is validation. By recognising those who dare to lead, create, and uplift, we inspire pride, motivation, and cultural preservation."
She further elaborated that the awards aim to elevate and celebrate Black excellence globally by acknowledging individuals, organizations, and initiatives that are actively shaping the narrative of the Black experience worldwide. The platform strives to bridge connections between Africa and the global diaspora while bringing international recognition to these achievements.
The stories shared by Akin Lewis and Yemi Solade highlight a common theme of resilience in the face of societal and familial pressures. Their experiences underscore the importance of following one's passion despite obstacles, a message that resonates deeply within the creative community and beyond.
