Actress, Tomi Ojo tells FAITH AJAYI about her journey from modelling to acting and how she navigates the industry
Where did you grow up, and how did your upbringing shape the woman and creative you’re becoming today?
I was born in Lagos State and spent the first 10 years of my life there before moving to Ibadan, Oyo State, where I lived with my family for a while. After that, I returned to Lagos, and later moved to Abuja. So, I’ve always been that child who moved from one place to another. I never really had the stability of growing up in one environment; and yes, that had a huge impact on who I am today. It forced me to become independent at an early age. I had to figure myself out and carve my own path.
Your educational journey isn’t the typical Nollywood pathway. What did you study, and how has that background influenced how you see storytelling and performance?
I have always been curious about human behaviour—why we do the things we do, how we communicate, and how our environment shapes our choices. I would say I’ve learnt largely through observation, self-study, and lived experiences. I didn’t go through the formal film-school route, although film has always been an interest of mine. At some point, I wanted to study psychology, and though I didn’t, it has remained a strong area of interest. My relationship with film and storytelling has always been self-directed rather than academic, but the passion has always been there.
Was acting always the endgame, or did you initially see yourself thriving in another creative lane?
I didn’t know acting would become my career until later in life. I acted as a child, but it wasn’t until I was around 20 or 22 years old that I realised I could actually do this long-term. Knowing myself, I’ve always had many passions, including writing, directing, filmmaking, photography, music, even hospitality. I want to do many things, but acting is one passion I know that will stay with me for a very long time.
Who or what first planted the idea that an entertainment career was possible for you?
I have always been involved in acting in one form or the other. I recently saw a picture of myself at about four or five years old performing on stage in nursery school, and that reminded me that the passion had always been there. But watching Viola Davis (American actress) in ‘How to Get Away with Murder’ was a turning point. Seeing her embody that character stirred something deep in me. She made me believe I could take acting seriously as a career. I knew I had the talent, but watching her convinced me that I could actually pursue it professionally. She’s one actor I truly hope to work with someday.
Before acting, you explored modelling. What drew you to it, and what did that phase teach you?
I wouldn’t say I started modelling professionally. According to some agencies, I didn’t have the right height for it. So, what I did was to collaborate with a lot of photographers in the beginning to have my pictures taken. Face modelling was mostly based on collaboration. But now, runway modelling is something I have my eyes on. I still believe I can model, and I will eventually. When I began, I focused more on auditions and figuring out how to land acting roles. I collaborated with photographers for face modelling and portfolio shoots, and while runway modelling is something I still have my eyes on, I’m patiently waiting for the right moment.
At what point did you realise acting offered you more emotional range and freedom?
Early on, I collaborated with photographers mainly for face modelling. It was more controlled and visual. Over time, I realized that acting gave me room to explore emotions, depth, and storytelling in ways modelling couldn’t. That freedom is what pulled me in fully.
Take us back to your entry into acting. What was your first audition like?
When I decided to pursue acting seriously, I researched everything; who I needed to know, what I needed to learn, and the directors and producers I admired. That research led me to an Africa Magic series audition. On set, I met actors who added me to professional groups, and even before that audition, I landed a small role and was paid well. That raised my expectations, but I later learnt that the industry isn’t always rosy. Still, I adjusted and kept pushing forward.
What were the biggest challenges you faced breaking into Nollywood without industry godfathers?
It was tricky. In this industry, it’s easy to attach yourself to people who might dim your light or derail your potential. I experienced a bit of that, but I was lucky to find my tribe early; people who genuinely cared about my growth. When roles slowed down, I worked behind the scenes as a production manager, and in other crew roles. That period became a learning phase. I didn’t experience extreme brutality, but I learnt when to stay, when to speak up, and when to walk away.
Did you ever experience moments of doubt?
Yes; many times. Doubt is inevitable. But acting became an outlet for me. It allowed me to learn, question myself, and grow. In moments of doubt, I lean on my tribe, made up of my friends in and outside the industry. They ground me.
What keeps you motivated when the industry feels slow or overwhelming?
My “why.” Whenever I feel burnt out, I remind myself why I started. I love storytelling; I’ll always want to create. I also lean on my friends for emotional support and sometimes explore new hobbies to reset my mind.
What’s the biggest on-set lesson you’ve learnt?
Focusing only on what’s within my control. There’s so much that happens behind the scenes that can distract you. I’ve learnt to stay present, listen, and react truthfully in the moment. Presence is everything on set.
How has working with directors and senior actors shaped your confidence?
Every director has taught me something different. I’ve realised I am a director’s actor. I like collaboration and conversation. I have learnt how to work with both expressive and silent directors. With experience, I’ve grown confident enough to ask questions or find clarity when needed. Trusting the director makes for my best performances. I also learn from fellow actors and crew members. Every set is a classroom.
Which role has stayed with you the most?
‘Stitches’, which recently left the cinemas, and another epic film yet to be released. In that role, I played a strong, fiery character; very different from the softer roles I’m often cast in. It surprised even my friends, and I loved it.
Has any role pushed you beyond your comfort zone?
Yes—‘Leaked’. It was emotionally and mentally exhausting. I cried a lot during that project, but I’m grateful for roles that stretch me.
What roles are you intentionally chasing now?
I am positioning myself for stronger, more mature roles, such as epic heroines, psychological thrillers, action-driven characters. I am done with schoolgirl roles. I want challenging, non-basic characters, and I’m already stepping into that space.
If you could manifest a dream role, what would it be?
Action films like ‘The Woman King’ or ‘Avengers’. I’d also love to play royalty in deep, culturally rich epic stories, as well as explore horror. I haven’t done that yet, and I’m excited by the idea.
Tell us about your most recent project.
In December 2025, I worked on an epic film that pushed me physically and mentally. I played a strong yet soft character and spoke old Yoruba, with the help of a language coach. It was demanding, but I’m incredibly proud of it.
How do you unwind outside the spotlight?
I love quiet spaces—intimate gatherings with friends and the beach. The beach helps me relax and reset.
What’s the biggest benefit of fame, and the hidden cost?
The appreciation. When people say my work inspires them, it means everything. But the cost is constant visibility. Sometimes, you just want to be human without being watched. Balancing that awareness is a challenge.
What boundaries have you learnt to set as a young woman in the spotlight?
Emotional access. Not everyone deserves front-row seats to your inner world. I protect my peace, self-worth, and mental health fiercely. If I don’t feel valued in a space, I leave.
Finally, what’s one truth about success you wish young creatives knew?
Your dreams are valid, but you must pursue them wholeheartedly and wisely. Focus on your journey, not someone else’s timeline. Seek financial stability, stay open to learning, surround yourself with honest people, and always be true to yourself.
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