In an enlightening YouTube interview, media personality Folu Storms passionately discussed the insidious impact of colourism within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
With an impressive background spanning law and media, Storms delved into the intricacies of colourism and offered poignant insights into the evolution of her career.
Folu Storms: Transitioning to Media
From law to media, Storms’ transition was seamless. She carved her niche as a presenter and content producer at Ndani TV, contributing to the critically acclaimed documentary “The New Africa.”
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Her captivating presence extended to co-hosting the breakfast show at Smooth 98.1FM in Lagos, earning her recognition through prestigious awards, including the Ebony Life TV Sisterhood Award for TV Personality of the Year in 2017 and the On-Air Personality award at the Future Awards in 2018.
Unmasking Colorism and Identity
Colourism, a deeply ingrained issue in Nigeria, was the focal point of the conversation. Storms ardently emphasised that colourism’s gravity is heightened by the global portrayal of black individuals and the perpetuation of stereotypes.
“There’s a disproportionate way and a negative disproportionate positioning of black people of Africans,” Storms asserted. She spotlighted the residual impact of Nigeria’s military dictatorship, which fostered an environment of fear, hindering self-discovery and expression.
Media’s Role in Molding Identity
Drawing from her extensive travels and cultural engagements, Storms illuminated her evolving perception of Nigeria’s identity. She underscored the significance of embracing one’s heritage and acknowledged the pressing challenges posed by colourism within the nation.
“Wherever you go, no matter how you speak, no matter how you be, your name, your face, your skin, it’s a big part of your identity. It says who you are and where you’re from, and that’s important.” Storms further shared her aspiration to reclaim the narrative through media, challenging skewed global perceptions and dislodging stereotypes.
COVID-19’s Ripple Effect on Mental Health
The interview also delved into Storms’ personal experiences amid the COVID-19 pandemic saying, “Because let’s never forget guys, we’re still getting out of COVID. Businesses are still recovering from COVID. Individuals are still recovering from the impact of COVID. I know it’s very easy for us to just move on.
“But I have learned a lot of important lessons about learning to sit with my feelings. October 2020 was hard for me and about anybody else. Like, I literally grew up in Luckyfee Zone. Like this is my village, like I had a ride-by-school license, 1994.” She continued saying she has “gone from being a young adult to being the adultiest adult.”
She candidly recounted her introspective journey, highlighting the cruciality of prioritising mental health and seeking professional therapy. Storms debunked the stigma surrounding therapy, encouraging Nigerians to confront their emotions and advocate for their mental well-being.
Future Aspirations
Folu Storms’ trajectory continues to chart a course toward reshaping narratives and fostering unity among Africans. Her transition from a legal backdrop to a media frontrunner underscores the importance of challenging societal norms and steering toward positive transformations within the entertainment sector.
Amidst a world rife with colourism and ingrained biases, Storms’ poignant insights catalyse discussions that demand attention and transformation. Through her media endeavours and advocacy, she endeavours to embolden young Africans and catalyse a media landscape that is truly inclusive and representative.
Storms’ journey is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Aguda, Surulere, Lagos State, she embarked on an educational odyssey that took her from Corona VI for primary schooling to The Lagoon Secondary School.
Her international pursuits led her to St Leonards Mayfield and Aberystwyth University in the UK, culminating in a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and a Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Bristol. She further polished her skills with a diploma in Broadcast Journalism from Pan-African University.
Don’t give the wrong impression! veteran comedian/actor Ali Baba charges actresses to reveal source of income
In other stories, popular Nigerian actor Atunyota Alleluya Akporobomerer, professionally called Ali Baba, spoke about the lavish lifestyle of some actors and disclosed how they earn it.
The renowned stand-up comedian spilt some dirty dark secrets of some actors sometime last year.
According to Ali Baba, some actresses show up at events or locations with big cars or go on expensive trips that the entertainment industry does not pay for.
