Tosin Akinola: The unstoppable Nollywood’s rising star

She is gradually establishing herself in the Nigerian film industry.

With a life marked by resiliency and a passion that dates back to her early years, Tosin Akinola has emerged as a figure of quiet resolve and an unflinching faith in purpose.

Her early passion for acting was spurred by aspirations to become a well-known figure who could utilize her talent to encourage and inspire others.

"I've loved acting for as long as I can remember," she says.

Tosin Akinola began her theatrical career with the Olashehinde Theater Group, which she later joined in 1998 under the direction of veteran actor Pa James. The thespian practiced tirelessly there, performing at events, on stage, and even in bars, surrounded by other dreamers.

“I went everywhere with him,” she remembers. "I was determined to learn, and his guidance was invaluable."

Eventually, Tosin's first significant break came from that passion: a part in the movie Desire (Ipinu). "It was a milestone," she says passionately. "Director Seun Olaiya, producer Omolara Dauda, and coordinator Ayo Olaiya have my eternal gratitude for believing in me."

She was driven to tears by the pressure and the high expectations of the process. But it was just that difficulty that enabled her to grow.

"I became the actress I am today because of the experience," the actress says.

Tosin's path hasn't been without difficulties, either. Financial limitations have been a persistent issue, frequently impacting her capacity to produce content or compensate production staff.

She acknowledges, "It felt like I was invisible, regardless of how long I'd been in the industry or how hard I worked."

On the set of Police and Thief, Tosin experienced a particularly humiliating situation when she was barred from a dressing room because a less experienced coworker, who was regarded as a celebrity, was using it.

She remembers, "I felt hurt and embarrassed."

In other cases, Tosin was treated disrespectfully by younger actors and crew members just because she was unable to provide financial incentives following filming or because she did not own a car. She never lost faith, though.

She declares with passion, "I believe in the God of unstoppable progress." "And I'm confident I'll accomplish my objectives."

Tosin has an intense dedication to her craft. She immerses herself in every screenplay, rapidly grasping its core and accurately and empathetically putting herself in her character's position.

She claims, "I draw from personal experiences." "I find it easy to cry on set because it feels too real at times."

Tosin's emotional attachment to her parts is particularly apparent in Ageshinkole (King of Thieves), which was produced by Femi Adebayo and had her most difficult performance to date. She worked on the set for two exhausting weeks, and it was her first significant traditional film.

She claims that although it was difficult, it was also quite fulfilling.

Tosin hasn't yet had to decline a part because of her morals, but she's still willing to develop and make wiser decisions in the future. With her own project, Behind the Door, presently under development, she is also stepping into the production industry.

Directed by Tope Oyefeso (Topperz) and produced by Tosin Akinola, who refers to herself as the "Unstoppable Queen," the movie showcases the actress' developing talent.

In the future, Tosin hopes to collaborate with movie icons Joke Silva, Mercy Johnson, Funke Akindele, and Toyin Abraham. Among the fantasy directors on her list are Adeyinka Adekunle, Odunlade Adekola, and Tunde Olaoye.

She is also committed to dispelling myths around Nollywood stars.

"People believe we lack honesty or are not serious. However, a lot of us are dedicated, focused, and hardworking. We ought to be recognized for who we really are.

Although Tosin's voyage is still in progress, one thing is certain—like a Trojan horse, she can't be stopped!