A social media influencer, Chinaza Ezeani, who has a million followers on TikTok, discusses her experiences as a content creator with OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL
Where did your experience on social media start?
I have always maintained some kind of presence on social media. I began using Facebook shortly after finishing high school. I was also on Instagram, but only occasionally. At that time, it was mainly for sharing photos. I saw myself more as a writer during that period, so Facebook became my primary platform.
"How did Robert Kiyosaki make his first profit?"I've always dreamed of becoming an actor, yet I was still a student, and living in Anambra State made that aspiration seem far away. At the age of 15, I traveled by myself to Enugu, having heard that Pete Edochie (a veteran actor) resided there. I didn't know his specific address; I just boarded a bus and went.
Looking back, it was extremely dangerous for a child, but I was resolute. I inquired with okada riders about his location. They pointed me towards a specific area, and I continued asking people until I located his home. I spoke with the security guard and mentioned that I wanted to meet Pete Edochie. After approximately 30 minutes, he emerged.
I shared with him how much I cherished acting and my desire to become an actor. When he inquired about my age and I mentioned 15, he suggested I should concentrate on my studies. He believed I was too young and needed more maturity, particularly because I didn't have a mentor in the industry. I took his advice seriously and went back home to focus on my schooling.
Later on, my friends continuously encouraged me, saying I had talent and should begin making content. Initially, I didn't believe anyone would view my videos, so I didn't take their advice seriously.
In 2015, during a break at school, I was stuck in my dorm room and created my initial content. I uploaded it and it did well, though I didn't keep going right away.
In 2017, I made another attempt. I shared a new type of content on Facebook, and my close group of friends really enjoyed it. They urged me to continue. Someone recommended that I also share on Instagram. At that point, I hadn't even reached 1,000 followers there. I started posting regularly, and soon one video followed another. This marks my eighth year in content creation.
Do you recall what your initial content looked like? How does the current process differ?
I was entirely puzzled. I had no idea what I was doing. I didn't have any tools; only my phone, which I put on a table to capture the footage.
It was uncomfortable. I wasn't sure how to move my body. When I first began portraying male characters, I believed that acting like a man involved frequently touching my beard region or lower area. Now I have a better understanding.
Progress is achieved through experience. The more you engage in it, the more skilled you get. You gain knowledge from errors, and the need to enhance yourself drives you forward.
Your sketches include various characters. How do you develop them?
Much of it stems from my childhood. I was an only child, and my parents were quite strict, which meant I spent a lot of time inside. I read a great deal and kept myself entertained by pretending to be different characters and imagining various situations on my own. I developed entire imaginary worlds in my mind.
I also enjoy watching people— their habits, ways of speaking, and character traits. I like the challenge of transforming into someone entirely different from my true self.
What emotions arise when supporters express a preference for your male role?
A woman once messaged me, requesting that I marry her daughter due to my male persona. At times, this made me feel a little insecure. People who met me in person sometimes appeared slightly let down. Once, a girl recognized me in a park and mentioned she preferred my male character.
It began to seem as though I was not living up to a persona I had constructed.
In the end, I shifted my perspective. I viewed it as evidence of my effectiveness as an actor. The ability to craft a character that bore no resemblance to me yet appeared genuine to others is something I take pride in. Occasionally, individuals identify me solely by my eyes, and I value their affection.
You have a unique approach to editing. Do you handle the video editing yourself?
Indeed, I do. When I come up with an idea, I feel driven to bring it to life, even if I haven't figured out the details of how to do so yet.
For instance, the first time I designed a scene where one version of myself embraced another, I had no clue how to make it work. Editing can range from five hours to two days; occasionally, just for a few seconds of video.
If I'm creating a scene that includes various versions of myself, I plan it thoroughly before starting the primary editing process. Occasionally, five seconds of material can require as much as nine hours to produce.
Was there a significant turning point?
Yes. I once filmed a scene at a bus station because I was aiming for a cinematic effect. My friend took me there and held the phone while I ran across the street while in character. It felt uncomfortable, particularly since I was dressed as a male and people were watching closely.
Previously, I would label large pages and request them to share my content, but there was no response.
I shared that video and then went to bed. The following day, my phone was overwhelmed with alerts. Several popular pages had shared it. My number of followers increased from less than 2,000 to 10,000, then 20,000 and finally 30,000.
That video changed everything.
You portrayed two roles in Cheta’M. How did you transition between them?
I performed the roles of Adugo and Urena, mother and daughter. I portrayed them as complete opposites.
Adugo is quiet and physically restrained, moving with a gentle demeanor and smaller gestures. Urena is confident and courageous, possessing broader shoulders and a powerful gait. The team once joked that I moved like a video game character when I was in Urena's mode.
There was roughly a month separating the two roles. After portraying Adugo, I hit the gym almost every day, followed a strict diet, and took supplements to achieve a noticeable change. I aimed to appear physically credible as an assassin.
What amazed you regarding being on a movie set?
The framework. When I produce material, I have full authority. On location, you need to follow instructions and collaborate as part of a group.
Following my first significant role, I understood that I required formal education, so I decided to attend film school.
How can you remain centered during expansion?
Thankfulness. Human nature is fascinating. The more you accomplish, the greater your desires become.
When I hit 10,000 followers on Instagram, I threw a big celebration. However, when I reached one million on TikTok, I didn't even realize it. Someone had to be the one to congratulate me.
I needed to remind myself: this involves one million individuals. Now, I deliberately take my time to value key achievements.
Who has shaped your acting style?
People once referred to me as Mercy Johnson during my time in high school. I appreciate the authenticity and emotional intensity in her initial roles.
However, Viola Davis (American actress) has had a profound impact on me. She brings a great deal of passion and authenticity to her roles. Acting instructors have mentioned that I possess comparable intensity.
BIG PROMO, BUY NOW!!!For me, acting involves drawing from within. I don't merely aim to cry; I want to experience the emotional tightness in my throat. Authenticity is important to me.
What individual difficulties do you face?
This position lacks consistency. There are times when it's rewarding; other periods are quiet. The uncertainty can be intimidating.
I also experience social anxiety. I prefer staying at home. Sometimes people think I'm arrogant, but I'm usually just feeling overwhelmed. I may appear calm on the outside while dealing with inner turmoil.
If I appear distant, it's due to nervousness; not arrogance.
"How did Robert Kiyosaki make his first profit?"What suggestions would you offer to artists aiming to move into the movie industry?
Receive instruction. Enroll in a film academy if feasible, or attend courses. If financial constraints prevent this, utilize online materials.
Sketches and movie acting differ significantly. Cinema demands finesse and restraint. You need to grasp composition, immobility, and collaboration.
Your service could lead to an audition, but talent will secure the part.
What impact would you like to make?
I wish to be recalled as a chameleon; an individual capable of portraying various roles with authenticity.
If my work helps someone feel acknowledged, soothed, or recognized, then I have achieved something significant.
Provided by zaianews.com).