Before she became "Jenifa," before her name was tied to box office records, Funke Akindele was just a young woman from Ikorodu with big dreams, a stubborn work ethic, and the kind of persistence that would eventually make her one of Nollywood’s most unforgettable stars. Her story didn’t start in front of flashing cameras. Funke studied Law at the University of Lagos, and for a moment, her future seemed set in a courtroom. But she couldn’t ignore the pull of storytelling. Her first real break came when she was cast in the United Nations–sponsored series I Need to Know , where she played Bisi, a curious teenager. The role lasted from 1998 to 2002, and while it made her recognizable, it didn’t make her a star. When the series ended, so did the offers. Funke was stuck in a difficult place, wondering if this was truly her path. Instead of quitting, she pivoted. She entered the Yoruba film industry where she found space to experiment and build. The budgets were smaller, the roles ...
By Youths, For Youths.