Nigerian music video director, Praise Onyeagwalam, popularly known as Director Pink, has opened up on why she abandoned her dream of becoming an actress to focus on cinematography.
The award-winning filmmaker, known for her visually striking and concept-driven music videos, said she gave up on acting because of the humiliation and sexual exploitation faced by aspiring actresses in the Nigerian movie industry.
Speaking in a recent interview with Hip TV, Director Pink recalled the struggles she encountered during her early days when she tried to pursue an acting career.
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According to her, the experience of standing in long queues for movie auditions and receiving inappropriate invitations from some filmmakers pushed her to take a different path.
“I wanted to be an actress but the humiliation was too much. Long queues, shady ‘come to this location’ calls. I said ‘No.’ That’s when I chose to be my own boss,” she revealed.
She explained that although being a music video director also comes with its own challenges, she finds fulfillment in the creative freedom and control it offers her.
“Being a director is also tough. There are sacrifices, sleepless nights, and pressure, but at least I’m doing it on my own terms,” she added.
Director Pink further advised upcoming music video directors to be patient and stay committed to their craft, noting that success in the industry takes time.
She emphasized the importance of delayed gratification, reminding young creatives that those who are currently at the top had to work for years to reach their current level.
“To anyone coming up, be patient. Don’t rush it. The people you admire didn’t make it overnight. It takes years of consistency, learning, and believing in yourself,” she said.
Director Pink, who has worked with several prominent Afrobeats artists, has earned recognition for her ability to bring fresh, cinematic storytelling to Nigerian music videos.
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Her transition from aspiring actress to acclaimed visual director has inspired many young women seeking to carve out their own paths in male-dominated creative industries.
Her story also sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by women in Nollywood, including sexual harassment and lack of access to safe, fair opportunities, issues that have driven many talented individuals like her to find alternative routes within the entertainment space.
