In this exclusive interview, Nigerian- British actress, Genoveva Kenechukwu Umeh shares her journey in Nollywood, her experiences, and her vision for the industry’s future. The Enugu-born recently won the Best Supporting Actress award at the 2024 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award (AMVCA) for her role in ‘Breathe of Life’. She was also nominated for Best Actress in a drama at the 2022 AMVCA for her role in ‘A Tune Away’. Genoveva also starred in series like ‘Blood Sisters’ and the young adult series ‘Far From Home’. EGUNGWU CHUKWUKA BENJAMIN brings excerpts.
What inspired you to become an actress, and how did it begin?
I became passionate about acting in high school, and I found out that I was the happiest while performing. I also watched Nigerian films and series and I was inspired by the women that starred in them. If an actress moved me, I would be on the internet reading up all I could about her. Professionally though, my acting career began in 2018, the year I moved back to Lagos from London to take a swing at Nollywood.
How did you feel when your name was announced as the Best Supporting Actress for your outstanding performance in the movie, ‘Breath of Life’?
It felt like I was dreaming as I had to walk up to the stage because I was nominated alongside incredibly talented women whom I’d either grown up watching or just thought the world of their talent. I’m super grateful that my mum could be there with me and that ‘Breath of Life’ could earn me my first award.
What drives your passion for acting, and what keeps you motivated to continue pushing boundaries in your craft?
There are a few things. I have fun embodying characters, and I enjoy playing characters that help someone say something. I like the idea that actors don’t try to be good, but we try to be honest. I have found that I like to create positive experiences for other artistes too. I’m motivated by God’s faithfulness to have brought me this far in my career and by the people who support me. With the nature of my work, I often miss milestones in my parents’ lives, as we barely get to physically see each other for more than two weeks a year. I’m motivated by the immense support from my management team and friends. It’s important that I get better every day for everyone that supports me.
What’s your vision on the future of Nollywood, and how do you see it evolving in the next five to 10 years?
I see Nigerian films playing on the international stage. I hope for sustainable work and residual income for actors and filmmakers. I’d love for more of our films to compete at international festivals, to be nominated for the Oscars. I hope for more funding and for international collaborations.
How do you balance your personal life with the demands of your acting career?
I like the idea of attaining balance, but I’m not sure if there will ever be balance. Like Shonda Rhimes once said, “If I say ‘Yes’ to family time, I’m saying ‘No’ to work time.” I’ve found that while balance may often feel nonexistent for me, being present and enjoying personal and work time works for me.
Can you shhare any memorable experiences or challenges you have faced during your time in the industry?
When I first got into Lagos, I struggled to earn a living out of my passions. I struggled to book jobs. I’d travel a far distance via public transport to seek opportunities because I was living on my savings. My parents were supportive sometimes when I’d ask but chasing my goal to be seen felt like a huge task. During this time, however, I made some of the best friends I have now and did a lot of networking with people who support me now. I learned that joy exists in hardship if you choose to persevere.
What advice would you give to up-and-coming actresses?
My advice would be to work on your craft, work on having a vivid imagination and a sensitive body. Second, keep the vision of your future before you; keep it higher than every challenge or obstacle. Last but not least, serve God, and all other things will be added unto you.
NB: This interview was originally published in The Independent Newspaper on 25th May, 2024