Yeye Funmilayo Emily Ajamufua is a United State-based multi-talented Nigerian artist singer, actor, dancer, director, and costume designer. She is the Programmes Director of Bi-Okoto Drum & Dance Theatre, a professional African Cultural Institute based in Ohio, US. In this interview with , she recalls her journey as a dancer, actor, and manager.
She also shares her thoughts about Afrobeat, Nollywood, and other issues I didn’t exactly set out to be an artiste, but fate had other plans. Growing up, I was always drawn to the arts, even when my initial dream was to pursue mass communication and become a broadcaster. However, I found myself naturally gravitating towards the arts, and it felt like a perfect fit.
I think it’s because arts was already ingrained in me from a young age. My elder brother introduced me to the National Theatre when I was just 8 years old, and the experience left an indelible mark on my memory. He was there for a rehearsal, and I was fascinated by the energy and creativity that filled the space.
Additionally, my mom was part of an entertainment group during her time at Leventis store, so you could say that art was in my blood. As I grew older, I found it easy to learn and adapt to the world of arts, and I eventually fell in love with it. So, while I didn’t initially plan to become an artiste, I’m grateful that life led me down this path.
Growing up, I was always drawn to the spotlight, and my passion for dance and performance was evident from a you.