IWD: Women in showbiz recount experiences in male-dominated industry

In honor of International Women’s Day 2025, Oghenovo Egodo-Michael shines a light on female entertainers in the Nigerian showbiz industry who are breaking boundaries and paving the way for future generations.

Director Pink advocates for trusting women with major projects, emphasizing the power of women’s voices, visions, and dreams. She encourages women to push boundaries and create fearlessly, rewriting narratives boldly.

Regarding female friendships, the unspoken understanding and unwavering support among women are highlighted. The solidarity and empathy shared among women create a valuable support system.

Acknowledging the support of notable women in her career, the author emphasizes the importance of mentors, colleagues, and supporters in her journey. Their encouragement and opportunities have been instrumental in her success.

The barriers women face in the industry are discussed, focusing on issues of access and representation. Women often have to work harder to be taken seriously, secure funding, and attain leadership positions.

The author aims to inspire young girls to pursue their dreams boldly and fearlessly, emphasizing that their dreams are valid regardless of societal expectations. She envisions a future where women not only direct but also lead and set new industry standards.

Lessons learned in the industry include demanding one’s worth, building meaningful relationships, staying consistent, and remaining true to one’s vision. The importance of resilience and creativity is highlighted.

The author advocates for more trust in women for big-budget projects, challenging the industry’s bias against women handling major productions. She calls for equal opportunities for women in blockbuster projects without the need to prove themselves excessively.

Mercy Aigbe shares her approach to celebrating women through gratitude, kind gestures, and support, emphasizing the importance of uplifting and empowering women in her circle.

Stephanie Coker, a women’s health advocate, discusses her foundation’s event focusing on women’s reproductive health for International Women’s Day. She highlights the lack of information on products affecting women’s health and the need for awareness and informed choices.

Stephanie’s advocacy is inspired by her own reproductive health journey and the need to address overlooked women’s health issues. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the impact of products on women’s health and the role of education and regulation in making informed choices.

Kaffy, representing Nigerian female dancers globally, shares her experiences and challenges in the industry, advocating for a broader perception of dance beyond performance. She aims to break stereotypes and create opportunities for dancers in various aspects of the industry.

KieKie discusses handling criticism rooted in gender bias by focusing on her work and results, emphasizing the importance of showcasing talent and capacity regardless of gender. She shares insights on motherhood’s influence on her career and the power of love and responsibility.

Etinosa encourages women to believe in themselves and reflect on their achievements on International Women’s Day. She stresses the need for education, love, empowerment, and inclusion for women, highlighting her efforts to challenge stereotypes and empower individuals in the entertainment industry.

Etinosa envisions a bright future for women in entertainment, emphasizing the rising awareness of gender equality and equal opportunities. She underscores core values essential for women’s success in the industry and shares how motherhood has taught her patience and resilience.