Bolanle Oluchi Babalola, is someone that can be described as full fleged Nigerian. She can speak the three major languages fluently and at 40, the graduate of Theatre Arts from the University of Abuja has made a name for herself in the communication and media industry as a communication specialist, actor, voice-over artist, and production of multimedia content. Known for appearance on Multichoice Africa’s reality TV show, Ultimate Love, Bola who runs a cleaning business, Bio Scrubs Entrepreneurs, speaks with YEJIDE GBENGA-OGUNDARE on multitasking, perception about wealth, and erosion of values among other issues.
You are into many things. How do you manage this in addition to your regular media job?
I manage my schedule by being flexible and multitasking between different roles. In Nigeria, where flexibility is essential to survive, I make sure to be knowledgeable, smart, and intelligent in handling multiple responsibilities. Running my cleaning business, Bio Scrubs Enterprises, is as important to me as my passion for acting and media communication. I remind people not to limit themselves to just a 9-5 pm job as it is essential to pursue their talents and gifts; as the Bible states in 1 Peter 4:10). ..God has given us different “talents,” not talent.
How will you rate the BOB brand now?
‘Bolanle the Brand’ was born out of a desire to change the negative image portrayed by a high percentage of ladies on social media. Recently, modesty, discipline, decorum, and decency seem to be lacking amongst the young ladies striving to grow their followers and become influencers online. The BOB brand reflects my belief in promoting decency, culture and discussing relationships and marriage issues, and promoting the good image of Africa through my show – Unscripted with Bolanle.
Many ladies think flaunting wealth is the definition of success. What is your take on this?
Success speaks for itself and is not defined by flaunting wealth. Wealth doesn’t equate to happiness, peace, or love. Faking it till you make it isn’t enough; it takes hard work, dedication, and prayer for actual success. Some things that glitter aren’t real, so it’s essential to live your life, be grateful, honour God and dedicate yourself to your goals. Envy of wealth is unwise if you don’t know the source.
The way people act on social media indicates erosion in values, and being rude is normal. What do you think is responsible for this?
Indiscipline, peer pressure exposure and lack of parental responsibility are responsible for people’s behavior on social media. Bad foundations lead to bad habits, so it’s essential to ensure that children and young people are taught the right values, culture, proper respect, contentment, and act responsibly both at home and in society. Indiscipline by parents and guardians, the absence of a responsible guardian or parents, further contributes to this. Also, westernization and too much access to social media and negative content; train your wards to be responsible, hold them accountable, and the absence of mentors/guardians sometimes lead the youths astray.
There seems to be a perception that an unmarried lady can’t be termed successful. What’s your take on this?
I will like to know the percentage between the successful married ladies and the successful single ladies. Remember, the key is gratitude, peace, and love. Above all, there is no written template to happiness or fulfillment on earth. How many married women are truly happy lately? To each one, his own; decide what your life will be, what you want, and pray to God about it. He will give you true happiness. The perception of society isn’t God’s perception. After all, God’s thoughts are of good and not of evil to bring you to an expected end.
Do you agree with the assertion that religion and culture aids violation of women rights?
Many traditional African societies have patriarchal structures where men hold most of the power while women are subordinate and marginalized. In these societies, women are often subject to various forms of discrimination, such as limited access to education, property ownership, and healthcare. Besides, harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation, early marriages, and widow inheritance persist, leading to the violation of women’s rights.
Religion has also been implicated in the violation of women’s rights in Africa. Some religious practices and beliefs promote gender inequality, which can lead to discrimination and even violence against women. For instance, women’s roles in some religious institutions are limited, and they cannot hold leadership positions. Moreover, some religious leaders have justified or condoned harmful practices such as domestic violence and the exclusion of women from certain activities. Women are marginalized and treated badly when they speak against I’ll treatment by the men or their bosses.
However, it’s important to note that not all religious or cultural practices in Africa perpetuate gender inequality. Many African societies have also made significant strides towards addressing gender discrimination. Some progressive laws and policies have been enacted to safeguard women’s rights, and awareness campaigns have been initiated in certain communities and by Ngo’s to educate the public on the importance of gender equality.
Will you say the Nigerian society is fair to women?
Gender inequality is a persistent challenge in Nigerian society. Women face discrimination in education, employment, and political participation. Girls’ enrollment in primary and secondary schools is lower than boys, and they often drop out early. Women’s representation in leadership positions is low, and violence against women is a significant concern, including domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking. Laws to protect women are deficiently implemented, leaving women vulnerable to discrimination, harassment, and violence. Continued effort is necessary to ensure the protection of women’s rights and interests in Nigeria
Many people have some negative ideas about women aspiring to be in positions considered a male domain. Are these negative views justified?
Negative ideas shouldn’t stop women from aspiring to reach their full potential. After all, the campaign for gender equality is part of an increase worldwide. Women are capable of managing career demands and family duties if they set their goals towards success. There is no set definition for male domains, and if a woman desires to pursue a goal, they should not be held back by negative views. So, why not dream it and do it? Achieve all your goals.
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