Category: Fashion

Lillian Amah is a Nollywood actress and producer. In this interview with YETUNDE OLADEINDE, she opens up on life as an actress, her very first role and producing a new movie titled, “My Grandfather’s wife.

Tell us about the new things that you are working on at the moment?

The COVID-19 pandemic has considerably slowed down work in the entertainment industry but there are a few things that I am working on: The first is that I produced a new movie ‘My Grandfather’s Wife’ staring Prince Jide Kosoko, Uche Nwaefule, Chris Okagbue, Baaj Adebule, Adesuwa Oronsaye, Dan Chris Ebie and Lillian Amah. It was directed by Ben Chiadika and should be released soon.

Secondly, I am starring in a new star studded TV Series titled ‘Oasis; The Enemy Within’ produced by the talented Producer Ariyike Oladipo and directed by the dynamic duo of Pat Oghre Imoibhio and Kabat Esosa Egbon. Oasis also stars Zack Orji, Tony Umez, Bimbo Akintola, Barbara Aduba, James Jibunma, Dan Chris and a host of others.

In addition, I also had a small role in a movie with working title ‘Misconceptions’ which is still in postproduction and should hopefully be released later this year. Finally, I am Consulting Producer of the annual Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange Project organized by Zmirage Multimedia Ltd.

The annual event which usually runs from July 12th to 15th is in its 11th year. This year’s event WS86 will be hosted digitally due to the Pandemic. The details for this would be coming soon.

What was your first role and what was the experience like?

My very first role was as Alero in RMD’s Out of Bounds. The movie was released in 1997. It was a beautiful but challenging experience seeing as it was my first time acting in front of the camera opposite huge stars like Richard Mofe Damijo, Aunty Racheal Oniga, late Uncle Steve Rhodes and the super talented youngster Bimbo Akintola.

What were you doing before acting?

Before acting, I was working in the private sector and continued doing so till 2005 when I left banking to set up my production company.

Tell us about some of the movies that you have participated in?

In the 24 years since I featured in Out of Bounds, I have acted in more movies and TV Series than I can readily remember. This includes films like: She Devil, Sweet Revenge, Hit and Run, Jungle Ride, The Triangle, Four Fathers, Deep Ends, After the I Do’s, Wife Hunter and Runs.

In addition, I have participated in TV Series like Cyberia, The Maze, The Valley Between, The Head of State, Doctors Quarters,

Rough Edges, Inheritance, Bridges, Husbands and Wives, Hush, Tinsel and Deceptive Measures.

What inspires you as an actress?

As an actress, I am inspired by the desire to entertain while passing across serious messages. I am inspired working on messages that can impact positively on people.

If you could change something in the sector, what would it be?

If I can change anything about the entertainment sector, it would first be infrastructure. Film makers need purpose-built film studios in order to improve on the quality of their output. The industry also needs accurate records. Records will help make the industry more credible and credit worthy both of which will help attract investors and investment.

What are some of the memorable moments in your life and career?

I would say that the memorable moments in my life and career have been many but a couple of the best include winning two awards for my role in Out of Bounds as well as the Reel awards best new actress 1998 and Thema Awards best upcoming actress 1998.

Another memorable experience for me was landing the roles of The Dean in Doctors Quarters, Kaneng in Tinsel and Nori in Hush.

What were the initial challenges in the sector. Did you feel like quitting at any point?

Some of the challenges I encountered include the fact that I had a 9-5 day job. So, I didn’t have a lot of time to spare for acting. There was also the challenge of not having an agent or manager, so I had to seek acting jobs on my own or rely on producers calling me because they had seen me in something else.

What are the other things that occupy your time?

I am a writer with two published fiction books titled ‘Echoes of a Heartbeat’ and ‘Dreams of Yesterday’. I am working on my third book tentatively, titled ‘The Things We Do to Each Other’. So writing is the other thing I do. I am also working on a new business which I will soon unveil.

Tell us about the people you admire?

I admire people for different reasons. This include Edith Jayne Azuh now Mrs Edith Emma Ayalogu for her deep talent as an actress, Former Governor of Lagos State Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode for his kindness and humane disposition, Late Thomas Sankara of Burkina Faso for his integrity, former US President Barack Obama for his oratory and gentlemanliness and Queen Elizabeth of The United Kingdom for always being a lady. There are some others but let me stop here.

Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?

My parents, late Chief Pius Stanley Amah and late Mrs. Elizabeth Ezidi Amah. They are my greatest influence and my biggest role models.

What is your definition of style?

Style for me is looking good in comfort.

What are the things that you won’t do in the name of fashion?

I won’t look indecent, won’t wear anything that makes me uncomfortable and won’t expose private parts of my body.

What type of books do you read?

I read any and everything. The list includes biographies, romantic fiction, historical novels, motivational books, legal fiction, horror, poetry and drama.

How would you describe Nigerian women in the entertainment sector today?

Nigerian women in the entertainment sector today are like Nigerian women in any other sector, a kaleidoscope of colors. They are talented, hardworking, innovative, creative, intelligent and more often than not, willing to walk their talk.

What is the secret of looking good? Please tell us about your beauty regimen?

I believe beauty comes from within, so I try as much as possible to be happy and at peace with everyone. In addition, I start my day with a slice or two of lemon in a mug of hot water. These days, I take a 6-8km brisk walk very early every morning between 6am and 7.30am. I also eat sparingly with intermittent fasting occasionally. I only wear make-up when absolutely necessary and I dress age appropriately as much as possible.

What plans do you have for the next few years?

Man proposes but life happens so I try to live for the moment these days and not make plans that may not come to pass. I want to be the best I can be in my chosen career and as a human being. To live a long, healthy and happy life in the company of my loved ones and good friends.

Do you have people you are mentoring. How has mentoring helped you personally?

I have loads of people I am mentoring….male and female. Mentoring is a two way street. I learn as much as I teach. I love my mentees and it’s great to get into the minds of young people and try to, in some small way, help them navigate the whirlpool of life. So mentoring helps me grow as a person and teaches me patience more than anything else.

Tell us about your favorite travel destination and what you like about the place?

I have been to quite a few countries in Africa, Europe and North America. I love different things about different places, so I really don’t have a favorite travel destination yet. There are still a few places I’d like to visit but I find water very soothing. So, anywhere I travel to or intend to travel to and discover that they have good beaches, would definitely be a good destination for me.

How would you assess Nigerian designers today?

Nigerian designers are very talented; they are immensely creative and can stand tall anywhere in the world. I have seen amazing pieces designed by Nigerians, so I rate them top when it comes to creativity.

If you have to advise young people who want to go into the sector, what will you tell them?

Young people intending to go into the fashion industry should make sure they have what it takes to survive and make an impact. This includes talent, creativity, grit and staying power. The fashion Industry just like entertainment is tough. Talent abounds in that space so you must be prepared to bring on your ‘A’ game, be ready to take criticism and accept rejection without breaking down. It’s a tough field, so you must be tough to survive and be patient to excel.

Rape is very common in the society today, what advise do you have for Nigerian men?

Rape is a heinous crime which should be abhorrent to every decent human being. My advice for Nigerian men is to treat every female the way you would want to see your daughter, sister, mother or wife treated. Most Nigerian men are decent human beings and it’s sad that a few sub-humans are giving a bad name to them all. But, we need to quickly fish out the rotten eggs, so decent men can live normal lives. Final advice is for men to be sensitive and to pay attention.  It’s not okay to laugh or joke about rape. It’s nothing to joke about. It’s also not okay to cover up a buddy who you know is a rapist. He needs to be ousted. That girl or woman who gets raped is someone’s daughter, sister, wife or mother. She could be yours, so don’t joke about it, don’t do it and don’t condone it!

Janet Chinyere Jumbo is passionate about her career in modeling. She is the first Nigerian to model for Louis Vuitton. In this interview with YETUNDE OLADEINDE, she opens up on her runway experience, what makes her different and challenges of her industry.

Tell us about your life as a model?

Looking back from when I started, I must say that my life as a model has been very interesting. It has been a learning curve with different experiences and opportunities that have helped to define who I am today.  You must be determined, focused and open your mind to the changes as you go along. I have also learnt a lot of things, growing and developing my skills in the sector. This comes with a number of growth and you also get to experience life in a better way as well.

How would you describe the journey so far? What are your memories?

I must say that my journey to fame has been sporadic, way above my imagination. All to the glory of God. I must also say that the special favour of God has located me at different point and it has been awesome. The journey actually started with the passion and drive from those I call my mother agency. They worked so hard, polished me and within a short while the magic took place.

What was your first experience on the runway like?

My first experience was neck-racking! It was for Louis Vuitton and I was just 16 years old at that point. I must confess that I was so nervous and afraid of falling or not walking the right path. I had butterflies in my stomach and I also recall that I kept asking a lot of questions just before stepping out.

Finally, when it was time to step out, the experience was beautiful, things went smoothly and I just couldn’t believe what was happening to me. The experience was awesome when I got on the runway and all this fired my inspiration. I recall then that the vibes, music and friends made it really exciting and worthwhile.

What was it like at the beginning?

The truth of the matter is that I was skeptical at the beginning. I remember when the agency approached me with the offer, I was a bit scared. I kept wondering what to expect and whether it was something worth giving a trial. In addition, my family was also very skeptical about it. But we later had an open mind, the terrain looked promising, we understood what was expected of me, accepted the opportunity, took the bold step and everything unfolded gradually.

What is your assessment of modeling in Nigeria compare to their foreign counterpact?

The modeling industry in Nigeria looks good on the surface. However, I must say that I have never worked in Nigeria as a model. So I can’t really say what it’s like or the experiences of the models who are working in the country at the moment.

Let’s compare when you started and now, what has changed?

It has been a very interesting journey for me. I think everything about me has changed. The exposure has been really great and it has been a great influence in my life and career. It has broadened my horizon and I now see things from a better perspective. So, taking a deeper looking at where I am coming from, I would say that a lot has changed starting from my level of maturity, my personal style, my behavior and attitude towards people and events.

I have really learnt a lot and I am grateful for the opportunity.

How has working in the sector influenced your life?

Yes, working in the sector has influenced me greatly. Working in the industry actually taught me that one can go from zero to hundred and from hundred to zero. The most important thing is your mind-set, your determination to excel and be the best in the field.  One other thing that I have also learnt is to be humble and be contented with what I have.

Tell us about the people you admire or role models?

There are a number of models around the world who have carved a niche for themselves. One of such models is Alek Wek; I admire her personality and the things that she stands for in the industry. I also admire Queen Onyemaechi and Cardi B.

What is your definition of style? What won’t be caught dead with in the name of fashion?

My definition of style is looking good; it must also be what makes me feel pretty and confident. That has worked for me and it actually defines what I wear and has become my personal style.

Tell us how mentoring has helped your career?

Mentoring has helped my career a lot and it has guided me to walk along paths that are creative, motivating and enduring. I must also say that it has saved me from social pressure, helped me manage my life well and stay strong all the time.

What lessons did you learn working in the sector?

You learn something new every day and I really appreciate that. So, working in the sector has taught me how to respond to certain situations. Some of the lessons for me include keeping to time in whatever I do and being humble.

What are some of the things that you treasure most in life?

I treasure Love, respect and time. They make you to be a focused person; it also brings happiness and a positive disposition to life.

What are some of the challenges encountered on the job?

To the glory of God, I have been privileged to be a worldwide exclusive to Louis Vuitton, working exclusively for the brand. The experience has been good .I haven’t really experienced any challenges. I am also happy and proud to say that I have one of the best agents and most importantly managers worldwide helping me see everything through .One other interesting experience in the sector was when I worked for Zara. It was great but it was an e-Commerce thing.

Tell us about some of the exciting moments as a model?

The experiences that I have had are really nice and memorable. For me, the best moment was when I travelled to an Island for a magazine shoot. That was La Gomera Island in Spain and the memories still linger. It was like a vacation, I loved everything and the environment was a great source of inspiration.

Every moment spent shooting at the beach was relaxed, it was really exciting. Another memorable experience for me was when I travelled to Paris for the two campaigns I did for Louis Vuitton. The experience was unforgettable because I also made new friends during the campaign which was the best part of it all.

What are some of the other things that occupy your time? I spend time in the gym when I am not at work. I love to go to the gym. It helps me keep fit. It’s a routine that has become a part of my life. I usually go to the gym from Monday to Saturday every week. It has helped me a lot, especially with my tummy and body shape. Also, I see it as something that takes my time, when I have nothing to do especially in the morning when I am less busy.

What makes you different from others?

Interestingly, what makes me different from others is my weird playlist. The list includes PINK, The ERYs and ICON all by Jaden Smith. Others are Press by Cardi B, Highest in the room by Travis Scott, Wish by DJ Khalid, Will by Joyner Lucas ft Will Smith and lastly Culture by Umuobligbo.

I call them weird because only boys or men like to listen to the songs. It is really rare before you find a girl listening to them.

Let’s talk about the women who inspire you?

Alek Wek is number one; she’s beautiful and I love her works. Next on the list of women who inspire me is Queen Onyemaechi, she’s a sister. She’s always strong, no matter the situation and her great work ethic is also amazing. I also get a lot of inspiration from the Smith family. I think they are very creative; they inspire me in different ways.

Cardi B is funny and her sense of humor is amazing. I admire her because she is also a realist; she is one personality who doesn’t care what people think about her.

If you had to advise young people who want to go into the sector, what would you be tell them?

There are so many opportunities for young people in the sector today and it would be great to have more people on board. My advice to them would therefore be to always stay focus and believe in themselves.

Where do you hope to be in the next few years?

In the next few years, I hope to be a business woman and top famous model. Most importantly, I also hope to get married and raise my family.

What types of books do you like to read?

The truth of the matter is that I don’t like reading books.

What about the Cinemas, tell us about your favourite movies?

I am also not the Cinema type. I think I prefer watching movies when it is on Netflix. That way I enjoy it better.

What items do you cherish most in your wardrobe!?

I cherish my trousers and my shoes so much. This is because I can just get any top and be satisfied with the style easily. But my trousers are really important to me. I cherish them so much.