By Damiete Braide
She is steadily carving a place for herself in the Nigerian movie industry.
With a passion rooted in her childhood and a journey defined by resilience, Tosin Akinola has become a symbol of quiet determination and unwavering belief in purpose.
Her love for acting began at a young age, fueled by dreams of becoming a well-known personality who could use her gift to inspire and uplift others.
“Acting has been my passion for as long as I can remember,” she reflects.
Tosin Akinola’s first steps into the world of drama were taken with the Olashehinde Theater Group, and in 1998, she joined the group led by veteran actor, Pa James. There, among fellow dreamers, the thespian rehearsed relentlessly, performing at events, on stage and even at bar joints.
“I followed him to every location,” she recalls. “His guidance was invaluable, and I was determined to learn.”
That passion eventually led to Tosin’s first major breakthrough – a role in the film, Desire (Ipinu). “It was a milestone,” she says with deep emotion. “I’m forever grateful to director Seun Olaiya, producer Omolara Dauda, and Ayo Olaiya, the coordinator, for believing in me.”
The process was intense; the expectations were high, and the pressure pushed her to tears. Yet, it was that very challenge that helped her blossom.
“The experience shaped me into the actress I am today,” the actress affirms.
However, Tosin’s journey has not been without struggles. Financial constraints have been a recurring challenge, often affecting her ability to create content or pay production crew.
“It felt like I was invisible, no matter how long I’d been in the industry or how hard I worked,” she admits.
For Tosin, one particularly humbling moment was on the set of Police and Thief, where she was denied access to a dressing area because a junior colleague, considered a celebrity, was using it.
“I felt embarrassed and hurt,” she recounts.
In other instances, Tosin experienced disrespect from younger actors and crewmembers, simply because she didn’t own a car or couldn’t offer monetary incentives after shoots. Yet, she never lost faith.
“I believe in the God of unstoppable progress,” she says with conviction. “And I know I’ll reach my goals.”
When it comes to her craft, Tosin is deeply committed. She immerses herself in each script, quickly absorbing its essence and stepping into her character’s shoes with empathy and precision.
“I draw from personal experiences,” she says. “That’s why I find it easy to cry on set, sometimes it feels too real.”
Tosin’s emotional connection to her roles is evident, especially in her most challenging performance to date in Ageshinkole (King of Thieves), produced by Femi Adebayo. It was her first major traditional film, and she spent two grueling weeks on set.
“It was tough,” she says, “but incredibly rewarding.”
While Tosin has not yet had to turn down a role based on her values, she remains open to growth and more discerning choices in future. She is also venturing into production, with her own project, Behind the Door, currently in the works.
Produced by Tosin Akinola, who calls herself the ‘Unstoppable Queen’ and directed by Tope Oyefeso (Topperz), the film is a testament to the actress’ evolving artistry.
Looking ahead, Tosin dreams of working with screen legends like Toyin Abraham, Funke Akindele, Mercy Johnson, and Joke Silva. Her list of dream directors includes Odunlade Adekola, Tunde Olaoye, and Adeyinka Adekunle, among others.
She is also determined to challenge the misconceptions about Nollywood actresses. “People think we’re unserious or lack integrity. But many of us are hardworking, focused and passionate. We deserve to be seen for who we truly are.”
Tosin’s journey is still unfolding, but one thing is clear, like a Trojan horse, she’s unstoppable!