In a recent interview with Hip TV, Deyemi Okanlawon, a prominent Nollywood actor, discussed his extensive tenure in the movie industry and his lack of notable awards.
Despite this, he shared insights on how he finds inspiration without relying on public validation.
Deyemi Okanlawon highlighted that despite the absence of recognition from local award bodies, he remains steadfast, stressing his inclination towards self-motivation.
He expressed his willingness to accept any awards graciously but affirmed his commitment to not letting awards define his sense of self.
In his word;
“I have never won any of the serious awards in Nigeria. I have been around [in the entertainment industry] for long enough that if I were the type of person to feel a certain way, I would have been like, ‘Why had I not been awarded this or that?’
“The truth is, I can look into my mirror and congratulate myself. I have done this all my life. And if recognition or validation comes from somewhere else, I will take it graciously. In fact, I had to learn to take compliments instead of deflecting them. Validation shouldn’t define you. If anything, my presence should validate an award, not the other way round.”
