Ebube Nwagbo is a Nigerian actress and entrepreneur. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about the things that make her tick, her memorable moments and clothing line.
WHAT are the things occupying your time at the moment?
I must say that there is a lot happening right now and it has opened my eyes to the potential around me. What’s new for me at the moment is the launch of my new clothing line called PoshedUp by Ebube Nwagbo. It is a casually chic clothing line for every fashion-conscious lady out there; a great option for ladies who want to look good effortlessly. It’s your everyday look with class and style.
Looking down memory lane, who or what inspired you to go into acting?
Yes, it’s true. I got inspired with creativity and I remember that I had one or two people I loved to see on screen while younger. These included the likes of Liz Benson but, interestingly, I never really set out or wanted to be an actress. Of course, I knew I wanted to be on television but not as an actress. I actually wanted to be a broadcaster.
What are the other things that occupy your time?
I have a lot of things I do aside acting and they make my world go round. First, I run a production outfit which really brings out my creativity in different ways. In addition, I have a hair line and now I am working on my clothing line. I also have other businesses which I do but they are not related to entertainment or fashion. When I am not doing all this, then I focus on charity work which I am also very passionate about, The Ebube Nwagbo Foundation.
I must say that giving back is something that is dear to my heart. It’s something I have done silently for years without publicising it, but I decided to make it public now, because I have come to the realisation that it is not just me that can change the world. It has to be me and you. We can do this together; two heads are better than one. So I’m quite a busy person. foundation laid and getting better every day.
Give us some memorable moments in your life and career
One of the memorable times in my career was when I received my very first award outside the shores of Nigeria. It was a very interesting experience and it spurred me to do more. Another was when I toured almost the whole of Nigeria with the Globacom team. It was a great experience for me; being able to meet my ever-loving fans in their base and of course bringing the best things in life along with me (music and laughter).These two things are priceless.
What are some of the challenges you encounter on the job?
I must say that acceptance in whatever you choose to do is a huge challenge; whether in business or in acting. Acceptance is a major challenge but it hasn’t stopped me and I wouldn’t let it stop me. Dealing and learning from it makes me stronger and better.
How do you cope with the challenges?
They come in different ways and no two challenging situations are the same; that means they would need different solutions. However, I try to create a balance between both, so none suffers. It’s not easy, but I try.
Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?
I would say that my parents and family are my greatest sources of influence when it comes to the things that I do. They believe so much in me and I wouldn’t want to let them down. In addition, I never forget my early beginnings because that gave me the foundation on what I am building on today. I usually don’t forget the reason I started this journey; that way I don’t forget where I’m headed.
Let’s compare when you started doing this and now, what has changed? In what ways has this changed your lifestyle?
The truth of the matter is that a lot has changed. I have learnt a lot from the experience and the people around me. It has actually made me have more sense of responsibility. I always remember that I have a lot of people looking up to me. Fans, friends, family and a whole lot of people. They look up to you and a lot is expected from you. It has made me a better person who wants to do better and grow. I always remember I have to live up to expectations. It has also made me a more confident person over the years.
What new things would you like to see in the sector?
Interestingly, I would say that the changes are being made already. The industry has changed a lot, it has grown and there are a lot of innovative ideas that motivate and inspire. However, I believe that we can still do more and compete favourably with our peers in other parts of the world. Luckily, a lot of people have invested in the sector, but it can get better than this. What we need is more funding and support from the government. There is also the need to create a more conducive environment, especially better conditions for filming and making movies. You don’t want to know the hazards and risks involved when on sets and locations.
What are some of the lessons that you have learnt?
You learn every day and the lessons learnt have helped to open my eyes to the many opportunities available in the sector. I have also learnt that life only gets better with time, especially if we put our heads and heart totally into whatever we are doing.
What is your definition of style? Style, to me, is sending a message without saying a word. Your style speaks volume from afar without saying a word. When you walk into a room, your style says who you are.
You must really treasure some things in your life; what are they?
When it comes to what I treasure most in life, I would say that my family is key. The reason is that they are the only ones that would have your back when no one else does.
How do you relax?
I stay at home and chill or go out with friends or family.
Any principle that you hold dearly onto in life?
What you give is what you get. Treat people the way you would want to be treated. What you put out in the universe is what it gives back to you. And, again, one should always know when to draw the line in certain situations.
Let’s talk about the people that you admire and role models
My mom. She is the strongest woman I know. I want to be a good mother just like she’s been to all. She is an amazing woman.
If you had to advise young people, what would you tell them?
I will advise them to stay focused and never forget the reason why they are here in the first place. There is no shortcut to success. The most important thing is to work smart and do the right thing. Be you. There can be only one you.
