UK based Nigerian filmmaker and humanitarian, Doyin Amodu, is a woman of many caps. She is the current president of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) in the United Kingdom while also making waves in other spheres. In this interview by ADERONKE ADESANYA, she speaks on her achievements and her greatest goal in the filmmaking industry.
You were recently appointed the matron of the Hospital and Prison Action Network in the United Kingdom (HPAN-UK), how do you feel about this new task?
I feel so good becoming a matron of HPAN-UK. I am a renowned humanitarian, known for my unwavering commitment to serving those in need. My extensive contributions to humanitarian services, particularly through my “Hope at Twilight” initiative, have significantly impacted the lives of many, particularly the elderly and unsung heroes within our society. Therefore, becoming a matron of the Hospital and Prison Welfare Initiative (HPWI) is an extension of my services to humanity.
What does this new task require of you?
I have to oversee care programs, ensuring their effective implementation in hospitals and prisons. Additionally, I serve as a spokesperson for HPWI, raising awareness about the organisation’s mission and goals. My role involves developing and enhancing programmes aimed at improving mental and physical health, education, and skills development for offenders. My passion for humanitarian services is an altruistic act that I consider essential, so I make it a priority to create time out of my tight schedule to attend to it.
Aside from this new task, your hands are so tight as a filmmaker, what has been keeping you busy lately?
As an accomplished filmmaker, I have not relent in giving my best in the industry. My next film project, entitled “Inmate,” focuses on the lives of prisoners, delving deeply into the reasons behind their incarceration. This production, aimed at over-the-top (OTT) distribution will feature top Nigerian talents and be filmed across the country using high-end cinematography equipment. This is a project that will cost over N200 million. It is currently occupying my mind, and I won’t rest until I can bring it to fruition.
At what point did you delve into acting and then filmmaking?
To me, acting transcends mere talent; it is a craft that must be learned both in theory and practice. I began my journey in 1994 as an apprentice at Babskos Production, owned by Jide Kosoko. After completing my informal training as an actress, I moved to the United Kingdom and enrolled in Film Practice at London South Bank University, graduating with a First Class Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree. This blend of rigorous training and education has made acting feel natural to me.
How have you been able to combine acting with other tasks?
I excel at multitasking! With a fervor for both filmmaking and humanitarian service, I adeptly plan my schedules to seamlessly manage both. My ability to multitask allows me to operate efficiently in both areas, using each to supplement and enhance the other.
Even with my new task as the matron of HPAN-UK, I find it easy to organise myself to accommodate all my engagements. I am a perfectionist, striving for perfect results and achievements. By giving my all to everything I am involved in, I consistently aim for excellence. This dedication has been the secret behind my success. I am proud to say that my life as a filmmaker and a humanitarian has been interesting.
How do you combine all these tasks without any clash even as a mother?
I am no longer a nursing mother (laughs). I am already a grandma, so managing my time is much easier now. I am free to travel anywhere at any time, which allows me to take on many rigorous assignments. Despite my busy schedule, I remain very strong. I make time to work on myself at the gym and enjoy my holidays whenever they come.
What are your most challenging projects/movies so far?
“Imagination” was a film aimed at helping cancer patients. Cancer is a deadly illness that even doctors are still striving to cure. I recognised that film could be used as a therapeutic tool for cancer patients, providing comfort even in their final days. I undertook the challenging task of shooting this film in both the United Kingdom and Nigeria, flying actors from Nigeria to the UK. The project demanded a significant investment of money and effort, reflecting my dedication to this cause.
As a Nigerian in Diaspora, how have you been able to cope and still be a proud cultural ambassador of Nollywood?
Presently, I am the president of TAMPAN in the UK, an organisation comprised mostly of Nigerians in the diaspora along with a few other nationals. Additionally, I am trained as a psychologist, making it effortless for me to engage with people from diverse backgrounds. My activities are deeply rooted in culture, and I proudly represent Africa, particularly Nigeria, in all aspects of my endeavors, from film practice to other professional pursuits.
What is your take on Nollywood and its global potential?
Nollywood has tremendous global potential, given its rapid growth and rich storytelling rooted in African culture. With its unique narratives, diverse talent, and increasing production quality, Nollywood is poised to captivate international audiences. By leveraging global distribution channels and embracing innovative technologies, Nollywood can become a significant player on the world stage, showcasing the vibrancy and creativity of African cinema.
What do you think people don’t know about Doyin Amodu?
She is a gentle and hardworking lady known for her gregarious nature. My deep love for humanity drives me to go to great lengths to please others. Whether through my professional endeavours or personal interactions, I consistently demonstrate compassion and a commitment to making a positive impact on those around me. My dedication to humanitarian causes and my sociable personality make me a beloved figure in both my society and professional circles. My relentless efforts to help others and my ability to connect with people from all walks of life truly set me apart. A lot of people don’t know that I don’t get angry. Despite my tight schedule, I still find time to enjoy my life and I am feminine by all standards. Though I dress like a tomboy, working doesn’t diminish my gender identity or feelings.
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