Preserving Yoruba Culture: Yinka Quadri’s Call to Aspiring Actors
Veteran Nollywood actor Yinka Quadri recently shared invaluable advice for aspiring actors and filmmakers, emphasizing the significance of patience, humility, and cultural promotion in achieving success.
Quadri, a stalwart in the Yoruba film industry, used the opportunity to commend the younger generation for their efforts in preserving and elevating Yoruba culture while urging them to do even more.
Patience and Humility: The Cornerstones of Success
In a candid interview, Quadri remarked, “My advice to aspiring actors is to be patient and stay calm. Anyone with an ego should leave it at home to truly learn, grow, and succeed in this industry.” These words resonate deeply, highlighting the need for humility and the willingness to embrace growth as essential traits for those venturing into Nollywood.
Quadri’s insight reflects his decades-long experience, demonstrating that the path to success requires more than talent; it demands discipline, perseverance, and an open mind. For younger actors, this advice serves as a reminder to prioritize learning over accolades and to approach their craft with respect and dedication.
Yoruba Culture: A Legacy Worth Sustaining
Quadri also celebrated the contributions of young actors and filmmakers in showcasing Yoruba culture through their work. He referenced a timeless Yoruba proverb: Àśà ọ́mìd̀ní ké̀gbé̀ (“A tradition that does not include the younger ones is not sustainable”). This proverb underscores the importance of intergenerational collaboration in cultural preservation.
Expressing his gratitude, Quadri said, “Thank God that even in our lifetime, our younger ones are elevating our culture. In fact, they are taking it beyond the level we took it. You know the prayer we always say is that our children will be greater than us. We are very happy with what is happening.”
This acknowledgment of the younger generation’s achievements serves as both encouragement and motivation for them to continue championing the rich heritage of Yoruba culture.
Commitment to Cultural Representation
Quadri’s message to young talents was clear: remain steadfast in portraying African culture through Nollywood productions. He stated, “I will advise young actors not to relent. The world is seeing that Nollywood, especially the Yoruba sector, is elevating our culture. I trust that they won’t relent because they are seeking more knowledge to elevate it even further.”
In an era of globalization, where cultural identities risk dilution, Nollywood’s role in projecting African traditions on the global stage is vital. Yoruba movies, with their unique storytelling and rich use of language, have become a medium for educating audiences about the values, traditions, and history of the Yoruba people.
Younger Actors: Stewards of Heritage
The onus now lies on younger actors and filmmakers to take Quadri’s advice to heart. They must see themselves as stewards of Yoruba culture, utilizing their talents to create narratives that resonate both locally and internationally. By prioritizing authenticity and seeking continuous growth, they can ensure that Yoruba culture remains vibrant and relevant.
As Yinka Quadri aptly noted, the younger generation has already made significant strides. With unwavering commitment, they can achieve even greater heights, solidifying Nollywood’s role as a beacon of African cultural expression.
