Content creator, Maryam Apaokagi, aka Taaooma, tells KEHINDE AJOSE about her creative journey, motherhood and other issuesYou are known for playing multiple characters. How challenging is it to create and sustain so many different personalities, and which of these characters feels the most personal to you?It is definitely more challenging than it looks because every character has their own personality, voice and way of reacting to situations. When I’m shooting, I have to completely switch from one person to another, sometimes four or five times in one skit. It’s not just about changing costumes or putting on a wig. I have to think the way that character would think; otherwise, people will notice.Over the years, the characters have become very natural to me because they’re all inspired by people around me. Nigerians have so much personality, and I love observing people. Sometimes, someone will say something in real life, and before I know it, it has become a Taaooma character.I’d say Tao is the closest to who I am naturally. She’s probably the easiest for me to play because there’s a lot of me in her. But every single character carries a little part of my experiences and the people I’ve met along the way.Your characters have become a major part of your identity as a creator. Do you ever worry that audiences may struggle to see you beyond comedy and recognise you as a filmmaker and storyteller?Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. You are known for playing multiple characters. How challenging is it to create and sustain so many different personalities, and which of these characters feels the most personal to you?It is definitely more challenging than it looks because every character has their own personality, voice and way of reacting to situations. When I’m shooting, I have to completely switch from one person to another, sometimes four or five times in one skit. It’s not just about changing costumes or putting on a wig. I have to think the way that character would think; otherwise, people will notice.Over the years, the characters have become very natural to me because they’re all inspired by people around me. Nigerians have so much personality, and I love observing people. Sometimes, someone will say something in real life, and before I know it, it has become a Taaooma character.I’d say Tao is the closest to who I am naturally. She’s probably the easiest for me to play because there’s a lot of me in her. But every single character carries a little part of my experiences and the people I’ve met along the way.Your characters have become a major part of your identity as a creator. Do you ever worry that audiences may struggle to see you beyond comedy and recognise you as a filmmaker and storyteller?Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. It is definitely more challenging than it looks because every character has their own personality, voice and way of reacting to situations. When I’m shooting, I have to completely switch from one person to another, sometimes four or five times in one skit. It’s not just about changing costumes or putting on a wig. I have to think the way that character would think; otherwise, people will notice.Over the years, the characters have become very natural to me because they’re all inspired by people around me. Nigerians have so much personality, and I love observing people. Sometimes, someone will say something in real life, and before I know it, it has become a Taaooma character.I’d say Tao is the closest to who I am naturally. She’s probably the easiest for me to play because there’s a lot of me in her. But every single character carries a little part of my experiences and the people I’ve met along the way.Your characters have become a major part of your identity as a creator. Do you ever worry that audiences may struggle to see you beyond comedy and recognise you as a filmmaker and storyteller?Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Over the years, the characters have become very natural to me because they’re all inspired by people around me. Nigerians have so much personality, and I love observing people. Sometimes, someone will say something in real life, and before I know it, it has become a Taaooma character.I’d say Tao is the closest to who I am naturally. She’s probably the easiest for me to play because there’s a lot of me in her. But every single character carries a little part of my experiences and the people I’ve met along the way.Your characters have become a major part of your identity as a creator. Do you ever worry that audiences may struggle to see you beyond comedy and recognise you as a filmmaker and storyteller?Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I’d say Tao is the closest to who I am naturally. She’s probably the easiest for me to play because there’s a lot of me in her. But every single character carries a little part of my experiences and the people I’ve met along the way.Your characters have become a major part of your identity as a creator. Do you ever worry that audiences may struggle to see you beyond comedy and recognise you as a filmmaker and storyteller?Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Your characters have become a major part of your identity as a creator. Do you ever worry that audiences may struggle to see you beyond comedy and recognise you as a filmmaker and storyteller?Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Not really. I actually see comedy as the foundation that introduced me to people, and I’m very grateful for it. But even when I make skits, I don’t see myself as someone who is only creating jokes. I have always seen myself as a storyteller.The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. The skits just happened to be the first way I could tell stories with the resources I had at the time. Now, filmmaking allows me to tell longer, deeper and more emotional stories.I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I know some people may still see me primarily as a comedian, but that’s okay. As I continue making films, I believe the work will speak for itself. I don’t think I need to convince people with words; I just need to keep creating.What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. What does your creative process look like?Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Everything starts with observation. I pay attention to everyday conversations, family dynamics and the little things people do without even realising they’re funny. Nigerians naturally have a way of making ordinary situations entertaining.Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Once I have an idea, I start writing and building the story around it. Then I think about the characters, the pacing, the camera angles and how I want people to feel when they’re watching. Even after filming, editing is a huge part of the process because comedy is all about timing. A few seconds can completely change whether a joke lands well or not.There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. There’s actually a lot of work behind what people eventually see as a one-minute video.Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Your new film, ‘Terms and Conditions’, draws inspiration from your experience with bullying. What aspects of that experience influenced the story, and why did you decide to share it through film?Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Bullying is something that stays with a lot of people long after it happens. While writing the script for the film, I found myself thinking about some of those emotions and how deeply they can affect someone’s confidence and sense of belonging.I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I wanted to tell the story through film because it allows people to experience those emotions alongside the characters. It’s one thing to hear someone talk about bullying, but it’s another to watch it unfold and understand how it affects a person’s life.At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. At the end of the day, I hope people watch the film, enjoy it, and also leave with a little more empathy for those who have gone through similar experiences.Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Many people who experience bullying carry those memories for years. How did that experience shape the person you have become today?I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I think it made me more empathetic. It taught me that you never really know what someone else is carrying, so kindness matters.As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. As a comedian, I enjoy making people laugh because laughter can be healing. As a storyteller, I naturally find myself drawn to stories about everyday people, their struggles and how they overcome them.Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Looking back now, I wouldn’t say bullying defined me, but it definitely shaped the way I see people and the kind of stories I want to tell.You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. You have made people laugh over the years. Has there ever been a difficult personal season when you had to show up and create comedy despite what you were experiencing privately?Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Definitely. I think that’s something a lot of creators experience, even if people don’t always see it. Life doesn’t stop because you have an audience. There were moments I had personal challenges but still had to show up, create content and meet deadlines.During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. During those periods, I reminded myself that it’s okay to be human. I also learnt the importance of resting when I needed to and leaning on the people around me. I’m grateful that I’ve built a support system that reminds me I don’t always have to carry everything alone.Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Motherhood is another major chapter of your life. What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you, and has it changed how you approach your career and personal decisions?Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Motherhood has changed me in so many beautiful ways. I think the biggest lesson has been learning to be intentional with my time because every decision I make affects more than just me now.It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. It has also taught me patience. You realise very quickly that not everything has to happen immediately, and that’s something I’ve carried into my career as well.I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I still love creating and telling stories, but I’m also more conscious about creating balance and making time for my family. It’s made me appreciate life from a completely different perspective.As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. As a woman who has built a career in the entertainment industry, what challenges have you faced that people may not see behind the scenes?I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I think almost every woman has experienced being underestimated at some point, and I wasn’t an exception. Sometimes, people assume someone else is making the creative decisions, or they don’t immediately expect you to be leading a production.Related NewsI left public eye to build my brands — Tayo SobolaVIDEO: I always knew I’d succeed, says DavidoVIDEO: I’ve been celibate for four years — Sydney TalkerBut, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. But, I have learnt not to spend too much energy trying to prove people wrong. I prefer to let the work speak for itself.Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Thankfully, things are changing, and more women are leading conversations and productions. I’m happy to be part of that generation showing that talent, hard work and consistency matter more than stereotypes.Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Some creators believe controversy, provocative or sexualised content is necessary to gain attention online. Do you believe creators can still succeed today through originality, discipline and consistency?I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I absolutely believe they can. It might not always be the fastest route, but I think it’s the most sustainable.I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I have always believed that your work should be strong enough to stand on its own. Trends will come and go, and controversy might bring attention for a moment, but building trust with your audience lasts much longer.I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I have tried to stay true to myself from the beginning, and I think people appreciate authenticity. If you’re consistent, constantly improving your craft and creating something people genuinely connect with, there’s definitely room to succeed.You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. You have also featured several veteran actors and entertainers. What inspires your decision to bring older generations into your creative world, and what role do you think creators have in preserving Nigerian stories and heritage?Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Our stories are one of the things that make us unique, and I think it’s important to keep telling them. Growing up, I watched so many amazing Nigerian actors, so being able to work with some of them now is something I genuinely appreciate.I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I also think there’s so much we can learn from them because they helped build the industry we’re all benefiting from today.As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. As creators, we have a responsibility to preserve our culture while presenting it in ways younger generations can enjoy and relate to. That’s something I’ll always try to do through my work.With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. With the growth of AI-generated content, do you see technology as a threat to creators or a tool that can improve storytelling?I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I see it more as a tool than a threat. Technology has always evolved, and every generation of creators has had to learn how to adapt.AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. AI can make certain parts of the creative process easier, whether it’s research, planning or improving efficiency. But I don’t think it can replace genuine human experiences and emotions.People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. People connect with authenticity, and that’s something I believe will always matter, no matter how advanced technology becomes.What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. What informed your transition from skits to filmmaking?I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I have never really seen my skits as such. To me, they have always been short comedy films because of the effort I put into them, from production to post-production. But yes, making feature films is the new chapter.Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Going forward, I’ll keep creating stories that entertain people but also stay with them long after they finish watching.Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Beyond views, virality and brand partnerships, what has helped you turn Taaooma from a social media personality into a sustainable brand?Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Consistency has been one of the biggest factors. I have always tried to focus on improving instead of chasing every trend.I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I also treat what I do like a business. Behind every video is planning, teamwork and a lot of intentional decision-making.Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Most importantly, I have tried to protect the trust I’ve built with my audience because I believe that’s one of the most valuable things any creator can have.What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. What role do you think the entertainment industry should play in driving national transformation?Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Storytelling is powerful because stories influence the way people think and see the world.I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I don’t think creators have all the answers to society’s problems, but I do think we have an opportunity to start conversations, encourage empathy and inspire positive change through the stories we tell.Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Entertainment should make people laugh, cry and reflect. If we can do that while also encouraging people to become better versions of themselves, then we’ve contributed something meaningful.Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Looking ahead, what would you like your legacy in entertainment to be, and what advice would you give young Nigerians who want to build careers in the creative industry?I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. I’d love to be remembered as someone who told meaningful stories and made people feel something, whether through comedy or film. If people can watch my work years from now and still connect with it, I think that’s a beautiful legacy to leave behind.For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. For young creatives, I’d say don’t focus only on going viral. Focus on becoming really good at what you do. Keep learning, stay consistent and don’t be discouraged if growth takes time.Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come. Success doesn’t always happen overnight, but if you keep improving and stay true to yourself, the opportunities will come.
I made millions laugh while fighting personal battles — Taaooma