Funke Akindele shared the challenges she faced early in her career, including borrowing clothes from colleague Sikiratu Sindodo to look polished on movie sets.
Reflecting on the journey to success
In a candid discussion, Funke reflected on her difficult journey before achieving success in the Nigerian film industry.
Currently, on vacation with actress Eniola Badmus and content creator Kamo in Ghana, Funke shared how these early struggles shaped her career and gave her the motivation to uplift others who may be facing similar challenges.
Acknowledging the support from industry friends
In a heartfelt video posted on her Snapchat, the actress acknowledged the significant roles her colleagues, Sikiratu Sindodo and Iyabo Ojo, played in her rise to fame.
Funke’s words served as both a testament to her humble beginnings and a message of encouragement for aspiring actors who may feel overlooked or discouraged.
Overlooked by industry bigwigs
During a conversation with her best friend, Eniola Badmus, Funke opened up about the tough times she endured when she was not getting enough roles. She recalled the difficulties of being overlooked by industry bigwigs, saying, “They didn’t give us any roles. One of those men, I just keep looking at him, but I won’t mention his name.”
Borrowing clothes to appear classy on set
In addition to facing professional hurdles, she also had to deal with personal challenges, including not having enough clothing to wear on set.
At the time, she would borrow clothes from fellow actress Sikiratu Sindodo to ensure she looked stylish and presentable.
Funke explained how Sindodo would help her pick out outfits for movie sets, saying, “I remember back then when I used to borrow dresses from Tayo Sindodo. Sindodo would help me choose nice ones from her tops if I was going to a movie set.”
Sindodo fights for Funke’s career
But the kindness from her colleagues didn’t end there. She recalled a moment when she was carrying a bag after being passed over for a role, and it was Sindodo who came to her defence.
“There was a day when Sindodo saw me carrying a bag after I wasn’t given a role, and she went to meet Uncle Abbey to fight for me,” Funke said, clearly grateful for the support.
Iyabo Ojo’s kindness and support
Another key figure in Funke’s rise was Iyabo Ojo, a fellow actress who became a close friend and ally.
![Left: Funke Akindele Middle: Iyabo Ojo right: Sikiratu Sindodo. [Photo credit: Google]](https://newdailyprime.news/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/OIF-6.jpeg)
Funke shared how Iyabo showed her kindness when they were struggling to make their mark in the industry.
“Iyabo Ojo was lucky and very nice to us. Iyabo would say, ‘Don’t worry,’ and she would drive us around in her small red car. We found solace in one another. That’s how we became friends. Iyabo used to stand up and fight for me,” Funke recalled.
Using challenges to inspire others
In her story, Funke emphasizes how her early struggles, and the support she received from her colleagues, shaped her determination to succeed.
Today, she uses her platform to inspire others, reminding them that even the most successful actors faced challenges on their path to stardom.
A message of persistence and support
Akindele’s journey is a powerful reminder that success is not always immediate. It takes persistence, determination, and the support of those who believe in you.
Her story is not just about triumph, but about the importance of lifting others up along the way.
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