From Waka Pass to Stardom: Lessons from Funke Akindele’s Journey to Her First ₦1 Million 

Funke Akindele. Nigerian filmmaker and actress

Every great story has a beginning, and for renowned actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele, it started with rejection and persistence. In a recent Instagram video, she shared how she went from playing minor “waka pass” roles in 1996 to earning her first ₦1 million in 1999 after landing her breakout role as Bisi in the TV series I Need to Know. 

She revealed that before her big break, she faced several “nos” at auditions and moments of self-doubt. Yet, she kept pushing forward, believing that one “yes” would change everything — and it did. 

“I started my career playing waka pass roles, going for auditions, getting a lot of nos. Then I got one big yes with I Need to Know — that’s how I got my first ₦1 million,” -Funke Akindele 

Almost Losing Her Breakthrough Role 

Despite finally landing the role, Akindele almost lost it due to overacting during the pilot shoot. The producers felt she wasn’t portraying a teenager convincingly. She was advised to return home and study the character better — a moment that nearly shattered her confidence. 

However, with the help of her younger sister, who read the script and mimicked a teenage voice, Funke found a way to embody the role perfectly. That breakthrough not only saved her job but launched her into fame. 

Turning Reward into Growth 

When she finally received her first ₦1 million, Akindele didn’t just celebrate — she made wise choices. The first thing she did was show the money to her mother, who advised her to pay her tithe. She then went to Yaba market to upgrade her wardrobe, buying shoes and clothes she had long desired. 

“The girl who had no shoes yesterday has today,” she said, reflecting on her journey with gratitude. 

The Power of Persistence 

Funke Akindele’s story teaches that success is built on consistency, humility, and learning. Her path from minor roles to millionaire status is proof that every “no” can be a setup for a bigger “yes” — if you keep working and improving yourself. 

Funke’s journey is a reminder that no beginning is too small and no dream too big. For anyone chasing success, her story encourages resilience, continuous learning, and gratitude in every step of growth.