I pursued my acting career while maintaining a day job – Somkele Iyama-Idhalama

Delta State-born Somekele Iyamah Idhalama gained recognition via the web-based TV series Gidi-up as a supporting actress. A Biochemistry graduate, Somkele rose to prominence after featuring in three blockbuster movies: The Wedding Party, 93 Days and The Arbitration. The Arbitration premiered in the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and she was selected to attend as the first female international TIFF rising star. At the 2017 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, Somkele clinched the Trail Blazer award, another feather to her cap. She speaks to OBINNA EMELIKE on her achievements.

Congratulations again. How does it feel winning this year’s Trail Blazer award?

It feels truly surreal to say the least. I am very humbled by this kind gesture that the judges of the AMVCAs thought fit to award me with. It is one thing to work and be recognized for the work you do by the general audience. However, it is yet another thing to be recognized by industry experts who are telling you ‘you are doing something different and it is working. We are proud of you, keep it up.’

Did you see your triumph coming?

I had absolutely no idea, especially as the category I was nominated for had been called out and I did not receive that award. I was quite relieved to be able to finally enjoy the ceremony until I heard the description for the trailblazer and it sounded way too close to home.

What is the implication of this award for you?

It certainly raises expectations. It is quite often a challenge to maintain a set standard and to prove every judge who has judged in your favour, right. The standards are higher, and I am honoured to have been given the task. This certainly helps to fine-tune the direction of my path. I am truly thankful. It is a challenge but I am excited to go on it and not be afraid to ask for help on the way.

You hold a degree in Biochemistry, why did you go into acting?

The performing arts have always been a huge part of my life growing up. My father encouraged the growth of our confidence and self esteem by making us perform in front of family members and friends in the living room. You could say that you were shy but you would have to bust a move before you were allowed to leave their presence. He was a lover of music and dancing was my first love until I went to primary school. My school had a drama class that merged dancing and acting. I was in heaven. My parents believed we could be equally successful in both our academic and artistic pursuits. So, I felt only fear of the unknown delving head-on into the arts than fear of acceptance from home.

When did the acting journey actually begin for you?

Acting was ignited for me after my first annual Christmas play in year five where my teacher Mrs. Abe, put me in the lead role as ‘the clown’ which was an adaptation of the prodigal son. I danced and acted my heart out. I got a standing ovation and never looked back. I focused on my academics as a backup plan and thankfully, that worked out well. As soon as I graduated with in 2011, I came home to pursue my acting career while maintaining a day job that would give me the chance to audition for roles.

Have you ever been part of a stage production?

I have not been on stage since early secondary school.

Which will you say you are more comfortable with, the stage or the film?

I would say that I am more comfortable with film as I have only done film professionally. Stage is quite different from films I feel I have to mentally achieve it before I go for it. I have huge respect for those who easily do both.

Who is your mentor in the film industry?

I have producers and co-actors who have become both confidants and mentors. I have had the privilege of working with very talented and kind hearted people who have become big brothers, sisters and aunties.

Have the lessons you have learnt in acting impacted on your output and outlook?

Most certainly. The stories we tell inevitably inform your character to some level. My job is to tell the truth in an imaginary situation and for me to do that, I must believe the truth of the character that becomes very real to me. You learn so much that at the end of it all, depending on the story, you are thankful that there is the real you to make more informed choices.

In your acceptance speech, you waxed philosophical by talking about God’s plans in one’s life. Would you say you are a spiritual person?

I am a spiritual person. I am very experiential in my outlook towards life. Sometimes, my friends and family tease me that I like ‘hard life’. This is simply because I like to be able to talk from experience. My faith was a part of the doctrine I was raised in until I asked myself questions about it that I either could not answer or that I got answers from others that I wished I would have had the privilege to experience. I sought God through my Catholic faith and I am so thankful He honoured my request.

Has your family supported your acting career after sending you to Canada to study Biochemistry?

As I mentioned earlier, my family has always supported whatever career choices we individually chose as long as we were wise about how we did it and were fully dedicated.

What is your counsel to other aspiring actors who are currently in another profession but yearn to embrace the film industry?

I will not sit here and ask anyone to make some self-proclaiming speech to their superiors about wanting to ‘chase their dream’. You just may end up being fired. Mr. Jim Ovia is a man I will always respect and pray for God to always have an open ear to his prayers. People like him are not many. You also have to understand that your job is also part of someone else’s dream and as human beings we want to know that we are getting value for our expenditures. I will tell you that no matter what you do, there is a time for everything under the sun. There is a time to ensure that all the work you are required to do at an office desk is done and no one can fault you while there is also that lunch break you will use to run for a quick audition or after work. In all your efforts, crown it with prayer for the required discipline and favour. Favour could come with a co-worker who will cover for you when you need it the most or the boss randomly giving you the day off. Whatever opportunity you get, use it wisely. Be ready to work at very odd hours. There were several times when I did not go home for weeks because I went from set to set for work.

What is that one thing you hold key to yourself about growing up?

Your innocence will always defend you no matter how low you go.

What has been your most memorable recognition aside from the AMVCAs?

All the recognitions I have gotten so far have been memorable. I keep the memory of being chosen among so many truly special for each and every single one of them.

What are your thoughts about this year’s AMVCA?

I will probably be biased and say it was the best yet simply because it was just as noteworthy given the current status of the economy. I am so proud of the organisers and sponsors who kept it going. I have not seen the numbers but I would like to know what the ratings were this year.

Is there any time you watch a movie that you felt you should have played the role better?

NEVER! (laughs). Every day of my life is thanksgiving that I get opportunities to do what I love. To talent-shame is not my forte. I can only suggest a different way of playing a role if the role is being studied for training purposes.

Is Somekele your full name or an abbreviation?

Somkelechukwu is my full name.

How do you unwind?

I workout, cook and spend time with my family. This includes friends that have become family.