My Mum’s Illness Made Me To Build Strength Out Of Pain – Funmi Awelewa

Funmi Awelewa popularly known to her fans as Morili is an epitome of beauty and elegance. 

In this exclusive interview, the beautiful Nollywood actress shares deep details with us on why she was out of the scene for a while, her travails during her mother’s illness, latest movie projects and plans for her growing skincare business.

What have you been up to lately?

I’ve been working on myself, working on my better tomorrow. I’ve been busy with my skincare business.

You were out of the scene for a while to take care of your ailing mother. What was it like during those trying times?

It was so challenging that I ended up being depressed for months. It’s sad seeing one’s love in so much pain and trust me, I can’t even explain what I went through. I lost so many deals, friends and this caused me a setback because I couldn’t concentrate on my life. But thank God I’m back and better now!

Did you get support from your colleagues during this period?

Best thing I ever did was not telling people what’s going on in my life. I didn’t open up to my colleagues till I got myself together. I’m the type that enjoys her privacy.

Only a few people reached out and I appreciated it even when they wanted to support me with funds, I turned down financial support from 2 top names in the industry.

What lessons do you learn from this experience?

I learnt never to allow the pain of the past to destroy me; I’ve been through a lot before my Mom’s illness. I cried alone because I couldn’t speak to people so it affected my mental health that I had to go on a long break to heal. All I can say is that I build strength out of pain. I’m now fearless and better

You recently built a house for your mum and siblings, what informed that decision? 

I already had plans to do so for my family from when I was young. It was Genevieve Nnaji’s story that inspired me again when I read about how she took her family to a better place about 11 years ago or more. So I prayed to God to give me strength and grace to do the same. I started the project in 2020 and I’m glad my mother is alive to witness the success.

You just returned from the UK where you spent close to two months. Was it strictly on holiday or were you there for some other things?

I was there for holiday but because I went through a lot last year, (stress, depression) my family decided to let me stay longer so I can totally heal and become a better version of me before coming back home to work. I’m better now!

Can you tell us about your latest movie project?

My latest project is a series showing on my YouTube channel titled “BOREKE”. The project is a hilarious comedy series centered around a local girl, Morili, who torments the villagers with the help of her dangerous father “Lalude” it’s showing on my YouTube channel “Faabtv”.

I also have a short film coming out soon titled “A WISH” . It is inspired by a true life story. It’s a story of how I grew up in poverty and made it to the limelight. I’ll be dropping it on 5th of May, 2023.

You are also into the skincare production and retail business. How is the business doing? 

The business is doing great, I have clients that patronize me home and abroad and I’m happy the business is steadily growing every day.

How do you react to negative vibes, either from the media, public or fellow actors?

I ignore them because I see negative vibes as distractions and I don’t welcome that. I only focus more on my growth and my only inspiration is to become the better version of me.

Many actors and actresses are stepping up their games and producing cinema movies. Are you having any plans to toe this line?

Yes, I have plans to produce my first cinema project soon.

How can you describe the Nollywood industry? 

Nollywood is a fantastic industry. It is a world of change in one’s life. You meet different people and tribes. You learn every day and the learning doesn’t end till death.

What has changed in you in the last few years?

If I can list a few of the things that have changed in me; my mindset changed, my taste has changed and my priorities have changed too. I’m glad I’m evolving into a better person.

Certainly, you have added so many friends since you delved into the industry. How would you describe your relationship with them?

I don’t have a personal relationship with them; I treat everyone equally and make sure I don’t disrespect my senior colleagues. I respect my mates in the industry and give honor to those that deserve it.

You had an NGO sometimes back. How many people have benefitted from the foundation?

I’ve done more since I started the NGO but I think it’s time I start showing it on my platform. I’m the type that keeps things like that off the media but I was told to start airing it to inspire some other people who may want to do so, that is, helping humanity. We just have to learn to give back to society in our own little ways.

Where do you see Morili in the next few years?

I see Morili in greatness!

I see myself as financially stable. I want to be more skilled, as well as looking forward to improving myself day-to-day in my work life and career.

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