Adunni Ade
I am known as Adunni Ade but my actual name is Adunni Adewale. I was born in Queens, New York to a Nigerian father and American/German mother. I had my elementary education at Chrisland School, Ikeja and post-elementary education at Bells Secondary School, Ota. Afterwards, I relocated to America where I studied accounting at the University of Kentucky.
Studying accounting
Growing up, I never wanted to be a doctor or a lawyer. My father is one who believes a sound education is key. He advised that I studied a professional course so that that I could always have something to fall back on.
Living in America
I had two jobs. It was not the easiest and the last 10 years of my life were not the easiest either for so many reasons but I thank God for where I am today. When I was going through those tough times, it seemed like it would never get better but I truly thank God. I appreciate the person than I am now more than I did years ago.
Acting
Growing up, I wanted to be a model, actress and singer. Initially, what was really key to me asides singing was modelling. I dabbled into modelling in America and was on America’s Next Top Model. I did not recognise my love for acting until a few years back. I only started acting professionally about a year ago when I started my skits online. I have always had it in me. I only decided to explore it when I was ready to delve into it. I did not get any training in acting. I have the talent but if the opportunity comes, I will get additional training. For now, I am just relying on my innate skills.
Relocating
I moved back to Nigeria last December. Astonishingly, I expected things to be hard. When you watch some people on television or read about them, you see them from a different angle and you wish you have half the things they have or wish you can be like them. The truth is when you are in it; it’s a different ball game. I was taken aback when I first started because I did not know there were other things that go with the industry. The good thing is if you show you have acting skills and can perform and deliver, you will be fine.
Movies
So far, the experience has been great and I have done a number of movies. The first one I did was with Saheed Balogun titled Iwo tabi emi which is not yet out. I did one in America with Fred Idika. I was in a movie directed by Desmond Elliot. I am supposed to start another production soon. I am looking at producing my movie in the future. I have also started hosting events.
Skits
In 2013, I promised myself that I was going to make a change for myself and I started off by relocating from Kentucky to Maryland. I began with the online skits and I have several ones I did before Date gone bad which I dropped earlier in the year. When I started out with those skits, it was a way of being funny. Now, I also use it to project my brand as well as teach people a lesson or two.
Challenges
Nollywood lacks a structure which ultimately makes it difficult for people to access information. I don’t like it when I have to go through somebody to access information or get across to the next person. In America, there is a database and all the information you need can be accessed with relative ease.
Skin colour
Contrary to what people think, my skin colour has not shown me any favour. If that is the case, then I should be bigger than I am now. What has shown me favour is my attitude, spirit and determination. It’s all my money, time and sweat. Nobody handed me anything on a platter of gold or gave me the needed push. I know people that could have easily helped me out but I did everything on my own.
Role models
Besides God, my father has always being a big part of my life. He is a hardworking man who has accomplished a lot in his lifetime. In the industry, I have met a lot of people that are quite different from the everyday people that you see. There a lot of them and I don’t want to mention names because I don’t want to run the risk of omitting some names.
Motivation
My two children inspire me. One is a six-year-old going on seven in September and a two-year-old who will be three in May. I have never been married but I was in a long-term relationship with their father which did not end well. I have the custody of my two children and they are here with me in Nigeria.
Relaxation
I don’t relax because I am under so much pressure. The only time I relax is when I am sleeping and every other time, I am on the move.
Style
I like to wear whatever looks good on me and I feel comfortable in. It can be something a little bit revealing, edgy and chic. I like to be in vogue.
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