Award-winning actress, producer, and director Funke Akindele—who is well-known for her incredible career and box office records—will speak at the WithChude live event On April 27.
Funke will provide in-depth insights into her journey, resiliency, and the mindset that drives her ongoing reinvention in the entertainment industry.
A true force in Nollywood, Funke Akindele has remained a trailblazer, constantly evolving in a highly competitive industry. When asked by host Chude Jideonwo how she manages to reinvent herself, she responded, “Firstly, it’s spiritual—it’s God’s grace, knowing yourself, and being original. I know when to stop, and I also do not dwell on accolades, even though I appreciate them, but I don’t dwell on them.”
Beyond talent and grace, Funke credits hard work as a key factor in success, emphasizing that persistence and effort separate the best from the rest. “A lot of people want to do what I’m doing, but I keep telling them: for you to be outstandingly successful, you need to work hard. Do the dirty work,” she stated
Funke also shared a deeply personal reflection on grief and emotional resilience. When Chude asked how she manages to keep her heart strong when many struggle to process their emotions, she admitted, “I do not allow myself to break down, and it affected me after my mum’s death—my heart was aching. It’s necessary to process things and come back refreshed.”
For four consecutive years, Funke Akindele has dominated the Nigerian box office, delivering hit after hit. When asked what fuels this consistency, she revealed, “I am very intentional with anything I am doing. I am an extremist; I am a perfectionist.” She also explained what inspired her return to the box office after a long break, reaffirming her dedication to excellence.
Speaking on why she chose to participate in WithChude Live, Funke said, “I decided to do this event because Chude is real and true, and I love that about him. You are my friend, and I love to do things with you. You are very positive, and you give back to my career. This is my own way of coming out to tell my story to a live audience—let them feel it, unfiltered. It is very important to me. I am doing this because it is real and unique.”
The WithChude live event, hosted by media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, will take place on April 27th and will feature some of the most influential figures across various industries. In addition to Funke Akindele, other industry experts will also be present to share their experiences and insights.
