Actor Nkubi Opens Up on Career Path After Job Market Rejections
Nigerian actor Victor Udochukwu Nwaogu, widely known as Nkubi, has publicly disclosed that persistent rejection in the job market was a pivotal factor in his decision to pursue a career in acting. The movie star made these revelations during a recent episode of the One On One podcast, where he appeared alongside his wife, offering a heartfelt account of his personal and professional journey.
Stigma and Early Life Realizations
Nkubi spoke candidly about the stigma he faced as a little person, explaining how it profoundly shaped his life and career trajectory. He recounted that as a child, he did not fully grasp his reality, even though he was aware of being different from others. "As a child you barely understand your reality but you knew you were different from every regular person," he stated, highlighting the initial confusion and self-awareness that marked his early years.
The actor noted that the harsh reality of his condition became more apparent after he completed his secondary school education and began seeking employment. "When the reality of being a little person first hit me was when I finished secondary school and I couldn't secure minor jobs like others," he shared. Nkubi attended numerous interviews but was consistently turned down, a situation he attributes largely to his physique, which led to widespread discrimination in the job market.
Transition to Acting and Success
The constant rejections eventually compelled Nkubi to explore alternative avenues, ultimately guiding him toward acting. This decision proved transformative, as he later achieved fame and success within the Nigerian entertainment industry, becoming a recognized figure in Nollywood. His story underscores how adversity can sometimes redirect individuals toward their true calling, with acting providing an outlet for his talents and resilience.
Family Challenges and Online Bullying
In addition to discussing his own experiences, Nkubi opened up about the challenges his family now faces, particularly concerning his daughter. He revealed that she has started to encounter similar stigmatization, with internet trolls frequently making hurtful comments about her size. Despite this negativity, Nkubi emphasized that he and his wife were emotionally prepared for the possibility of having a child with dwarfism before starting their family.
His wife admitted that even with their preparation, the online bullying still causes significant pain, reflecting the ongoing societal struggles they endure. The couple also addressed a shocking incident involving a medical professional, where Nkechi Vivian, Nkubi's wife, disclosed that a doctor advised her to cheat on her husband to avoid conceiving a child with dwarfism. "When I did my abnormality scan and handed it to the doctor, he asked if there was any trace of dwarfism in my family. I said yes, that was my husband. Then the doctor said, 'Why didn't you go to your brother-in-law or go outside to get pregnant instead of getting pregnant for your husband?'" she recounted, highlighting the pervasive prejudices they face.
Positive Developments Amid Adversity
Despite these challenges, Nkubi shared some positive news about his family, including the announcement of welcoming their first child, which came after months of being mocked and trolled on social media for being childless. This aspect of his story illustrates the couple's resilience and ability to find joy amidst ongoing societal pressures and discrimination.
Overall, Nkubi's narrative sheds light on the intersection of personal identity, career aspirations, and societal attitudes, offering a compelling insight into the lives of individuals with dwarfism in Nigeria. His journey from job rejection to acting success serves as an inspiration, while his openness about family struggles highlights the need for greater awareness and compassion in society.
