The best way to handle negative press is… —Actress Shaznay

Okawa Shaznay is a Nollywood actress from Cameroon who has featured in the blockbuster movie Iyore, where she starred alongside Rita Dominic and Joseph Benjamin. She also played a leading role in the 2016 hit TV series Delilah: The Mysterious Case of Delilah Ambrose. In this interview by TAYO GESINDE, she speaks on her foray into acting and how she has been coping with competition in the movie industry. Excerpts:

Can you give us an insight into your background

My name is Okawa Shaznay, I am an actress and I was born and raised in Cameroon for some years before attending university in the U.S, precisely in Houston, Texas, where I obtained my bachelors degree. I also took part in theatre productions and some independent films while I was living there for about eight years. I relocated to Nigeria three years ago to pursue my acting career in Nollywood.

What motivated you to go into acting?

Growing up in Cameroon as a child, I loved watching movies and, at a point, I got introduced to African films with the huge influx of Nigerian home videos coming into my country back then. The similarity in culture and other things always resonated with me and that’s what sort of sparked an interest in becoming an actress and my admiration for what is now known as Nollywood. I always knew that I would work towards accomplishing my dream of pursuing an acting career here because I have always seen Nigeria as the entertainment hub in Africa.

Who are your role models?

My mother is my role model. She has been there for me through it all and she has always taught me to fearlessly pursue my dreams, regardless of obstacles and that I should always trust God and to approach life with a positive attitude. When it comes to my acting role models, I would say Rita Dominic is my role model because she is a true thespian and carries herself with so much grace and humility. With all she has accomplished, she stays humble and supports new talent. I love that about her. She is someone I have really looked up to when it comes to pursuing an acting career here in Nigeria. There are others as well, but she really stands out for me in that area. It was a humbling experience for me when I got the opportunity to work with her in the movie, “Iyore”. On the international scene,  my role models are Sarah Paulson, Eva Green and Viola Davis.

What is the most defining moment of your career so far?

My most defining moment in my career so far actually happened quite recently when I won my first major award, which was the ELOY award for TV Actress of the Year 2016 for my role in the “Delilah” TV series. I was truly in awe and I felt happy that all the work I put in is paying off. It was truly a great feeling which has also encouraged me to work and prepare even harder for my future roles.

How have you been coping with competition in the movie industry?

In regards to competition in the movie industry, I choose to concentrate on myself and how I progress in my acting craft with project I face. I feel that you begin to lose sight of the bigger picture, which is the passion for the craft, when you concentrate on the idea of competition. Besides that, each actor has a unique skill or approach which is peculiar to them as an individual which brings something special to a film. So, to me I believe it is very important not to worry about the aspect of competition, but to perfect your craft and be better than your last performance.

What is your philosophy of life?

My philosophy of life is this; everything always comes to full circle. There is always a reason for the way things happen in life. God knows what is good for you and what is certainly bad for you. So, accept it and move on. Always be yourself and tell yourself the truth.

What is your assessment of the African movie industry i.e. Nollywood, Ghollywood, etc?

The African movie industry is growing rapidly and in a positive direction, especially when you take the case of Nollywood  which is making its global presence as we saw with the amazing movies that were showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). I see this as a great advancement from where Nollywood used to be 10 years ago, not to talk of 20 years back. There has also been an improvement in quality when it comes to production and also the public is supporting the cinema culture which is also great as well. You can only expect more progress from here on.

What are the gains and pains of being a celebrity to you?

The gains of being a celebrity certainly are being able to have access to certain opportunities that may arise in life that you may not have if you were not one and having preferential treatments and access when you go to some places.  The pains of being a celebrity involve always having to be cautious of what you do as the public is always scrutinising. Moreso, you have to work harder in keeping things private, as sometimes you don’t know whom to trust around you.

How have you been combining your career with the home front?

Everything is quite manageable as I make things work around my schedule that can still accommodate my life at home. It only becomes hectic depending on the film set I am on. Each are different and comes with different strains. But I try as much as possible to plan ahead of time on how to manage myself at home when I know I have to be involved in a film shoot that may take a longer period than expected.

How do you normally relax?

I usually relax by watching movies and going to serene locations. I also love and enjoy travelling to new places.

How do you handle negative press?

I haven’t had any negative press that I know of. But I feel the best way to handle negative press is to ignore it. Silence is key. I know it may not apply in all cases, but what I am saying in essence is not to respond to every single negative press being released.

What is your most challenging role so far?

Each role I have encountered has been challenging because they come with their own peculiar situations. You have to channel to make it as real to life as possible. It is not easy doing that regardless of the role so, I find that all I have done so far have been really challenging.

What do you like most about Nigeria and Nigerians?

I love that Nigerians are ambitious and are passionate about making things better for themselves in every situation. I love Nigerian food as it is not too different from what I grew up on in Cameroon. I come from the English-speaking regions of Cameroon and the culture and way of life is not too different so it easily feels like home as well here in Nigeria, I didn’t experience a huge culture shock living here.

What advice do you have for upcoming actors?

I always advise upcoming actors that passion for the craft is key. Work on your craft, train and find ways to always perform, so, as to improve on your craft. Find that theatre club in your area and get involved; watch lots of movies; read books on acting. Be true to yourself and also be prepared to hear plenty of No’s but remember to stay positive and work hard.