Modesinuola Ogundiwin, a Nigerian actress, has carved out a niche for herself in the entertainment industry, particularly through her notable role in the Showmax original series, “Wura.” In a thoughtful interview with Peter Akinbo, she shares insights into her journey into acting, her enduring passion for the craft, and her love for football, particularly for the English Premier League club Arsenal. Her career began unexpectedly when she participated in an audition for a competition called Next Movie Star in 2016, encouraged by a colleague during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). After submitting her audition video, her talent was recognized, and she won the competition in August 2016, which prompted her move to Lagos and set her on a path of discovering auditions and networking in the acting world.
Despite her formal education in intelligence and security studies, Ogundiwin’s dedication to acting transcends her academic background. She describes her passion for the craft as akin to a “mental illness,” given the industry’s constant challenges and rejections. Notably, she wrestles with fleeting thoughts of quitting but remains committed to her journey, always exploring new facets of acting rather than contemplating a return to her academic discipline. This steadfast dedication has provided her with countless opportunities in the industry, and she has enjoyed the support of her friends and family along the way, making the transition into acting smoother.
While discussing her childhood, Ogundiwin reveals her involvement in various sports, including football, handball, and even taekwondo. Although sports never became her primary focus, her energetic spirit led her to participate actively during her school days. Her time in taekwondo, particularly, was enriching, allowing her to gain self-discipline and learn valuable skills. Reflecting on her limited but vivid experiences across sports, she recognizes that acting ultimately emerged as her calling, despite dabbling in physical activities alongside her artistic pursuits.
Among her numerous acting endeavors, Ogundiwin mentions her three favorite projects: “Wura,” “Refuge,” and “A Night in 2005.” Each project has contributed significantly to her growth, pushing her boundaries and allowing her to explore complex, diverse characters. While fear often accompanies her engagement in these projects, she views it as a creative motivator to excel. Each production has also offered her unique collaboration experiences with talented individuals who have, in turn, become lifelong friends, enriching her experience as an actress.
One of her proudest moments remains winning the Next Movie Star competition in 2016, as it validated her artistic inclinations that she had only flirted with in her academic years. This victory provided her with the confidence to pursue acting seriously, countering her feelings of imposter syndrome when compared to others with more experience. Her accomplishments have etched her name into the industry, reaffirming her belief in her talent and potential. Besides, Ogundiwin’s personal interests range beyond acting, as she is also a huge Arsenal fan, expressing excitement about the club’s future under coach Mikel Arteta.
Finally, Ogundiwin contemplates her future, especially regarding parenting. If her future children show an interest in sports, she vows to support their pursuits just as her parents did for her. However, she expresses caution when it comes to contact sports, citing concerns about potential long-term health risks. Ultimately, Ogundiwin’s narrative intertwines her passion for acting and football while solidifying her commitment to both arts and sports—a journey fueled by curiosity, courage, and a rich tapestry of experiences that continue to shape her identity today.
