Many people give up on their dreams when they encounter obstacles along the way. American writer and humorist, Mark Twain, once said, ‘Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.’
Today, Iya Magazine has the privilege of introducing someone who not only understands the power of dreams but also seizes every opportunity to turn them into reality. Meet Esther Aikpokpoje, a Nollywood actress who joined the industry in the early 2000s.
She hails from Owan East Local Government in Edo State. Being the first child, she said her family members were her earliest influences. But a time came when her parents got separated, and that opened an unpleasant chapter in her life.
Journey to Nollywood
While growing up, Esther’s dad wanted her to become a lawyer, but she wanted to become an actress. She started participating in church drama and plays at a very young age. After she obtained a B.A. degree in the English Language from the Ahmadu Bello University, she decided to fully delve into the acting industry.
“It all began when I was working as a sales representative at Benwills Cellular in Ogui Road, Enugu State. You all know that some films are shot in Enugu, so I had the opportunity to meet Patience Ozokwor and Clem Ohameze. They were very popular figures back then, and they had come to purchase some items from our store. Before they left, I inquired about their shooting location and went there to watch them. I also registered for auditions.
“One day, they were shooting a movie very close to my office. So, when they told me that there was a role for me, I took permission from my boss and went to do the job. I was so happy that I was going to appear on TV screens. Initially, I was juggling my job and acting, but later on, I had to quit the job.”
if you are not strong emotionally, you might give up before your breakthrough comes
Challenges
When asked to mention some of the challenges she experienced as a newcomer in the industry, she said, “If you must make progress as an actor, you must be passionate about your act. Acting is not easy, and it doesn’t make you rich overnight. You will need a lot of perseverance and determination to get to the top. The challenges in this industry are numerous, but I will mention a few of them.
“Most producers sponsor their projects solely without any form of government help. Even when the government provides financial support, there is an inner circle of greedy people who prevent it from circulating.
“Secondly, this industry is filled with favouritism and selfish people who don’t want anyone to outshine them. Some producers prefer to use a particular popular figure instead of bringing another talented actor to the limelight.
“Backbiting and slandering are another common trend. I went through all these and was even threatened, not once or twice.”
Movies and awards
Esther has starred in many movies. She was featured in Omo Ghetto: The Saga, a movie produced by Funke Akindele. She also appeared in Desperate Search, Zoza, Stubborn Flies, Sound of Love, Sacred Tradition, Last Kobo, The Tenants, and many more.
Receiving awards for exceptional accomplishments is a testament to the dedication, skill, and innovation one brings to their endeavors. Being a multi-talented actress, Esther has received different awards and recognitions, and her recent DKG Merit Award was given by David Kings Group of Companies.
Esther mentioned that, apart from acting, she is also passionate about helping women who are going through tough times. She donates different resources to them; and for those in abusive relationships, she supports them in getting justice.
“I have seen injustice happening to people in our society, so it is something I will always fight against. Let me share a story with you. A friend of mine bought a land in Ikorodu. She had paid the total amount, but a few years later, someone else came and said that the land could not be sold. He confiscated the property and even used hoodlums to chase the buyer away.
“My friend reported the matter to the court, and while the case is yet to be resolved, the man went ahead to build a house on the land, and he is always bragging that nobody can do anything to him. I am still wondering why the court hasn’t finalized the case.”
Extended break from job
Esther once took a long break from the industry to attend to other pressing issues in life. However, she returned last year and is still trying to regain her popularity.
When Iya Magazine asked her to leave a word of advice for upcoming actors, she said,
“Before joining this industry, make sure you are passionate about acting because if you are looking for money and glamour, you might get discouraged when you don’t get them immediately.
“In the beginning, I did jobs without receiving any payment. I was disrespected by other crew members. I have been on a set where no one cared if I had eaten or if I had a transport fare to return home. At the same time, those top figures were being pampered and paid hugely for their appearances. All these can be a discouragement for upcoming actors.
“I have also been on a set where another actress embarrassed the hell out of me because I missed my lines; and the director didn’t say anything. So, if you are not strong emotionally, you might give up before your breakthrough comes.
“I have also heard rumours of sexual harassment, and if they are true, then it is very pathetic because it can destroy the passion of an upcoming actor.”
