Her name has virtually been eclipsed by her stage name, Nnenna, a lead character in Wale Adenuga’s Super Story series. That character would later inspire a new programme, Nnenna and Friends. Through that television show, Yinka Olukunga has won herself several fans especially among children who see her as a role model. She tells ORUKPE NELSON what has kept her going.

Everything seems to be going fine for you. Was acting really what you wanted to do as a child?

Though I started as a model, I have always loved acting since I was a kid. So once the opportunity came to join the audition train of Wale Adenuga Productions, I didn’t hesitate to embrace it.

Did you get your parents’ support?

Right from time my father tried as much as possible not to interfere in what we choose to do even though he has the right. He gave us freedom, but we did not take it for granted.

The least he would do is to show you the way and explain some key things to you. But when he realises that you are going astray he would quickly call your attention. He will never dictate to you. I even believe he saw all these before I did because I wanted to join the science class when I was in school, but he told me that he didn’t think science was the best for me. He advised me to go to the art class and study mass communication. Though I insisted on science and he let me have my wish.

How has the journey been so far?

We can only thank God. We have the Nnenna and Friends Brain Power Game that is aired every Monday on AIT and on Wap TV. Also,there is the Nnenna and Friends Live that runs five times in a year – on Valentine’s Day, Easter, Children’s Day, Independence Day and End of the Year. We as well do local and international educational tours that help to expose the children outside their immediate environment.

That broadens their horizon. We are really doing a lot and I am happy to have good and reliable people around me who help to get the job done.

Has it been a huge challenge staying at the top?

I put it that it was my turn. God has decided to take me to greater heights and I have been preparing myself for the challenge. I took my chance very well and it has been sustaining me all this while.

How did you really come about Nnenna and Friends?

I have always been a lover of children. And I knew I would certainly put out something for children, though I must say I didn’t know how that would happen. I didn’t see it happening with Super Story because I then didn’t see acting as a means of achieving the dream.

Acting is different from my love for children. But as they say, man proposes, God disposes. So, Super Story was that turning point in my life and gave me a huge opportunity to express myself. God and my love for children have taken Nnenna and Friends to this point. There are times I wonder why I really love children in my private time. The company too, Wale Adenuga Productions, believes in it.

It seems you don’t really take jobs outside Wale Adenuga Productions; why is that so?

I can do other productions, most times my projects get me so occupied that I cannot think of running other things. So I still do things outside Wale Adenuga and I must set my time right. I get scripts from other producers, but the idea behind the film must be good for me. I would not like to be in a movie that people would see and start wondering why the movie was put out in the first place. So I am always particular about the story of a film.

Are you an only child?

I am the first of four children. So you can imagine the kind of pressure as the eldest because apart from the responsibilities that come with it, I must be able to set good examples too.

Growing up for me was not really a jolly ride, but I praise God for the blessing and favour upon my life. I am satisfied with what God is doing in my life.

Could you share with us your best moment so far?

I have encountered so many happy moments because God has been very good to me. I was really excited the day Nnenna and Friends made its debut sometime in 2008; the celebration of my birthdays with children; the day I graduated from the university, among others.

Is there anything you wish you had the power to correct?

That would be the challenges faced by African children, from insecurity, poverty, substandard educational system, etc. All these affect the growth and development of the children as well as the nation, because these children are supposed to be the key to a better future.

How would you describe your fashion sense?

I love it simple. Simplicity works for me.

You are always seen with your natural hair; is there a reason for that?

I prefer to leave my hair this way because it is very soft. The few times I tried to make my hair it didn’t work. It could be so painful and bumps start developing. I am not comfortable having my hair touched.

Do you have any accessory you consider priceless?

All my accessories are precious to me.

What new projects are you working on?

We are working on many great and amazing ideas. We are still working on them; the public will know at the appropriate time

Are you getting married anytime soon?

You’ll know when the time comes.