Folu Storms plays lead role in short film addressing women’s challenges

Ada Ogunkeye, a Nigerian radio host turned-actress, popularly known as Folu Storms, has made her mark as the lead actress in ‘Afefe’, one of the films in MTV’s five-part series, ‘In Bloom’.

‘In Bloom’ is a collaboration between MTV Staying Alive Foundation, Paramount Global, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, presenting a compelling five-part short film series aimed at advancing gender equality.

The series confronts gender-based challenges including period poverty, child marriage, gender-based violence, HIV, self-stigma, family planning, and women’s economic empowerment.

It was directed by talented female filmmakers from Nigeria, Kenya, India, the United States of America (USA), and Brazil.

Each film in the anthology carries a unique narrative, shedding light on diverse experiences and struggles.

The series include:

• Aféfé” by Dolapo “LowlaDee” Adeleke (Nigeria), featuring Folu Storms

• “Period” by Nicole Teeny (USA), featuring Yasmina El-Abd
• “Alta” by Priyanka Banerjee (India), featuring Mazel Vyas
• “Maré” by Giuliana Monterio (Brazil), featuring Vanessa Giácomo
• “Kifungo” by Voline Ogutu (Kenya), featuring Brenda Wairimu.

In ‘Afefe’, Folu Storms embodies the character of ‘Simi’, portraying Nigerian women’s challenges.

Simi is a young wife and mother, whose elderly and ailing mother-in-law moves in unexpectedly, effectively ending her ability to work at her craft as a hairstylist.

Folu, in her interview with PREMIUM TIMES, reflected on her role. She explained that the character she played epitomizes the essence of many Nigerian women – diligent, nurturing, and devoted to family and work.

She added that her story resonates with countless women.

The 37-year-old actress said, “Simi is a hard worker, a mother, and a wife. She is somebody who believes very much in duty and responsibility. In the story, she is allowed to be elevated on her chosen path.”

(Premium Times NG)