Greed, exploitation affecting growth of entertainment industry —Kiibati Bankole

Despite the fact that she ventured into showbiz by accident, she has made a name for herself in the industry through her brand. Kiibati Bankole, a software developer-turned-entertainer, in this interview with SEYI SOKOYA, speaks about her experience in the industry and why she created a platform to bond celebs and fans through Merrybet Celebrity Fans Challenge.

A lot of celebs venture into showbiz with different motives, can you reveal why you took to entertainment?

Honestly, I had no plans to go into entertainment earlier in life. I wanted to be a lawyer but I became a software developer in my teens.  I would say I ventured into show business by accident after an encounter with a prominent television personality who put me on air as a result of my love for sports. I, thereafter, discovered my talent for public speaking and production. So, the full venture became a reality when I took it up professionally and the experience has been awesome and I am proud to be one of the popular entertainers in the industry.

 

So far, would you say you have achieved your aim?

I am not a billionaire yet; so, no, I have not got to the peak of my career. Though I may have made a name for myself in the industry through my brand, I am just getting started. I still have lots of aspiration for myself and the industry at large.

 

How has life been treating you as a sport media personality and an event producer?

Oh, it has been awesome. I have a dominant and charming personality, so I get along just fine. I am also driven, tenacious and very ambitious. I don’t back down from any challenge or take no for an answer and God have been good to me.

 

You have created a bond between celebs and their fans through your concept, Merrybet Celebrity Fans Challenge, how were you able to achieve this?

It started off as a radio and television game show where football fans exchange banter. Thereafter, I realized that over 70 percent of celebrities are also die-hard football fans and so I created a platform for them to express their passion in front of their fans. It is a platform that allows the celebrities to blow off steam in a jovial environment and allows fans to see stars show the other side of their personalities and talents.

 

What is your assessment of the industry?

There is a lot of work to be done commercially and so much potential for growth.

 

With your wide experience in the industry, do you think there is any correlation between sport and music as a form of entertainment?

Absolutely! They are both platforms that create an atmosphere of amity and passion.  The excitement found in a football stadium is similar to that of a nightclub. Sports and music are the most popular and effective relaxation avenues.

 

Despite the efforts of many to develop the entertainment industry, it seems that there are some human factors affecting its growth. What is your take on this?

Greed and exploitation are vices old as humankind. Nothing may be done about these except strengthening and enforcing our laws and regulations.

 

Aside showbiz, you also project the beauty of Africa with your brand; how has it been?

Beauty is Africa. I love to travel and interact with new cultures and it always amazes me how much influence Africa has on the rest of the world. We are unique, loud and dominant. Our fashion and music are now dominant globally and I am proud of this and do my best to flaunt it everywhere I go.

 

Do you feel threatened as a lady in the midst of what looks like men’s job in the industry?

Not at all; I am a no-nonsense goal-oriented entrepreneur with no time for distractions.

 

It has become a common belief that the showbiz exposes women a lot. How have you been able to handle this?

I am a feminist. I believe that women should express ourselves as we deem fit and not be hampered by stereotypes in the pursuit of our ambitions.

 

How have you been able to handle your male admirers?

I try my best, but it is difficult to please everyone.

 

You are devoted to fashion, how much can you spend on fashion?

Fashion is my way of expression. I do just enough, without being wasteful.

 

You are from a conservative Christian home, how were you able to convince your parents about going into showbiz?

My parents want what’s best for me. They understand the trend and are proud of what I have achieved. I appreciate their love and prayers.

 

Are you working on any project?

I am working on several projects that will be unveiled in due time. But right now, my focus is on Merrybet Celebrity Fans Challenge that will hold on December 7. The event will be headlined by Naira Marley and Burna Boy. It will be the biggest edition of the event yet and I am excited.