By Damilola Fatunmise
Talented and stunning actress Zainab Bakare is one of the most prominent young actors and producers in the film industry. She has made a significant name for herself with her outstanding work in movies such as Iyanud, Pasan, Sename and more. Having produced over 15 films, Zainab has also featured in over 100 home movies and several cinema projects.
In this interview with Saturday Sun, she shares her fears, motivations, and turn-offs.
Enjoy!
Your growth in the movie industry is rapid, what’s the secret behind it?
No big secret. It was just God and consistency; I kept pushing through, even in my weakest moments. I made sure I didn’t give up because what is worth doing at all is worth doing well and I pray a lot.
Should we say your new body (BBL) is one of the things that make most producers want to have you on their projects?
Not really, remember there are other things involved aside from the body. Most producers will say it’s because I fit in their different projects that is why they want me on it. My delivery and talent, then body can come afterwards, depending on the character I am playing.
What is your greatest turn-off in people?
Lies, hypocrisy and pride.
Can you tell us your greatest challenge as a producer?
The day I will never forget in the history of my life was when I shot one of my movie projects. I was on location shooting one of the stories that are so dear to my heart before the Eid Holiday. I gave my crew a break for Eid Kabir, to continue afterwards. Then on Eid Day, my Editor called to tell me that the whole project crashed and I had already shot the major parts of the story. It was just one day to round it up, I was devastated and helpless, in between I lost my mom in the process it was a difficult period for me then. I thought about what to do and called back my major cast. None of them were available before our resumption date, even though it was a very big loss for me, a multi-millionaire Naira project. I had to call another cast and pay them again because I don’t like to be a failure, and then we struggled to finish up!!! That was one of my most difficult challenges as a producer but I believe God doesn’t forsake his own, so I was able to scale through that phase.
You have been producing movies back to back these days, any major reason behind this?
Nothing really, I had these projects down and they were different characters. I just wanted to excite them before I heard stories. (You know, the way you are thinking, there could be others who think in that same direction. I wanted people to see another side of me that they hadn’t experienced before.
Should we talk about your love life?
There’s nothing so spectacular about my love life. All I know and can tell is that I have a man in my life who genuinely loves me and I love him too.
Quickly take us back to your growing up and what your worst moment was.
My growing up wasn’t rough. I lived with my Grandma and I can categorically say that I learned from the best. All the morals I have today are from her. Even though I thought she was mistreating me then. She kept saying that everything she taught me would be useful someday and by that time I would look back and be thankful. I heeded her words. The worst moment I never thought I could survive was when I had a little accident in the compound (I have a scar close to my mouth). My little naive self was in the compound with my aunty when she asked me to dance for her friend (I used to be a dancer in school). I was so shy that I just put our gate chain in my mouth. It gave me a terrible cut. I was instantly soaked in blood and was rushed to the hospital where I had a mini surgery. For a second, I thought I was dead, the flashes still come to date.
What else do you do aside from acting?
I used to have a restaurant where I sold food, shawarma and Palm wine. We do outdoor catering too. I moved from that area and since then it hasn’t been easy putting it together again because of the change of environment and my work. My Career is taking up most of my time.
Can you settle for a married man?
Yes I can, my religion permits me. I’ll if he loves me and understands my job. Most importantly, it’s best to go for a man who has the fear of God. So, when he’s about to go astray there will always be something drawing him back. Regardless, we all deserve to be happy.
You recently called out your colleague, Wumi Toriola. What transpired between the two of you?
Wumi and I are cool. We have settled our differences and nothing more to say about that.
Can you describe Zainab Bakare in a very short form?
Zainab is playful and loves God. She’s accommodating, fun to be with, strict but despise two-faced people.
Is actress Lola Margaret truly your biological mother?
You know our people like stating the obvious. Aunty Lola is my Godmother. One of my favourite humans and someone I can run to at any point in time. She treats me with so much love and supports my career right from scratch and the most beautiful part is that she’s a strong believer of Christ. She coaches me and teaches me more about how to be closer to God.
What’s your greatest regret ever?
Nothing really, every experience is always a lesson and from there we move.
Can you tell us about your just concluded projects?
Ana Eni Ola Iyunade, Oba Birin and Oro. These four projects are so dear to my heart. I can’t even put it together in words. We made magic. I can’t wait for the world to see what we made.
What’s your greatest fear in this life?
My worst fear is failure in my career, poverty and losing my dad!
What’s your obsession?
I am obsessed with good smell and cleanliness. You are automatically my friend when you are neat.
What should your fans expect from you soon and what’s your advice for those that look up to you?
Honestly, we aren’t sleeping at all. Always expect the best from your girl anytime and to you who sees this small me as your mentor, it’s not easy but never give up on your dream, someday soon, you will get there…Amen.