I did a little bit of theatre and modelling, and then went back to my first love: cartoons. I also know how to draw, so I used to make little comic books back then.
After school, a friend introduced me to her boss who wanted to create a cartoon series. We had our first meeting where he pitched his idea, and I started fleshing it out; I went from episode 1 to 2, then 3 to 4, to his amazement. He looked at me and said the creative industry was where I belong. He gave me some YouTube videos to learn how to edit, and while learning, I started editing his short film teaser, and as they say, the rest is history.
Ultimately, what inspires me most is the potential to make an impact through my work. I am driven by the desire to create content that captivates audiences, sparks conversations, challenges perspectives and inspires positive change.
What was the biggest challenge you faced at the early stage of your career, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced as a newcomer was establishing credibility and gaining the trust of colleagues and superiors. I started as a TV video editor and had to constantly prove to myself that I could be way more than just an editor. When the window of opportunity came, I volunteered to become the production head on the same salary, just to change the narrative.
I focused on producing high-quality work, made sure deadlines were met, encouraged collaboration, hired team members who complemented each other’s skills and worked well together and developed strong leadership and team management skills. I also constantly improved my skills, learning more camera angles, editing, sound production and lighting.
You are now pursuing your personal goals, how has the journey been so far?
It’s been great; it has its challenges. Trust me, it isn’t rosy but we are thriving.
How do you see the role of women evolving in the TV production industry?
The role of women in the TV production industry is evolving significantly; women are increasingly taking on a variety of roles in TV production – from directors and producers to writers and editors. This diversity is helping to bring a wider range of perspectives and stories to the screen. More women are not only in front of the camera, but also behind it, contributing to creative and technical decisions that shape content. Here in Nigeria, it is super amazing to see box office movies that are directed, written and produced by women, not excluding music videos.
What has been your most memorable project to date, and why?
Every project I have worked on has been memorable; they have tested my creativity, especially the reality shows, which is what I love because I am spontaneous.
Who are your biggest influences or mentors in the industry?
Kunle Afolayan’s storytelling is top-notch.
How does your partner support your career, and how do you support each other’s ambitions?
He is very supportive; he understands my goals and knows that I am very driven and focused. He respects that and generally encourages me to be the best, and vice versa.
What are your personal and professional goals?
My (professional) goal is to produce movies. I have a couple of stories yet to be scripted and also some TV shows, so I am looking forward to that. And personally, I want to tour the world, produce content, start my clothing line and make money.
What advice would you give to young women aspiring to become TV producers?
For young women aspiring to become TV producers, the journey can be both exciting and challenging. So, I would say ‘make sure this is something you want to do, something you are interested in because being a TV producer requires a blend of technical skills, creativity, leadership and resilience’.
Do you have any regrets?
I have no regrets about going into television production; it has been a wonderful journey. My only regret would be not accomplishing everything I set out for myself in the next 10 years. I always tell my friends that my brain hasn’t been put to work yet. So, hopefully, I’ll find someone who wants a piece of my ideas or I use them myself (Laughs).