CNN's 'African Voices', featured renowned Nigerian Actress Funke Akindele as she talks through her career and why she's focusing on the next generation of actors.

One of Nollywood's biggest stars, Funke Akindele has appeared in countless films and some of the biggest sitcoms in Nigeria. Despite starting acting as a young adult, 'African Voices' hears how she started out on a very different career path.

Her parents had differing opinions when it came to her acting dreams when she was little, Akindele tells CNN:
"Growing up was fun for me having the support of my mum, she believed so much in my talent, though my dad never wanted me to be an actor - he wanted me to be a lawyer."

She reveals that she had to compromise and promised to study for a degree, eventually graduating in law.

Following this, Akindele began auditioning for roles and had her big break when she was cast on one of the biggest sitcoms in Lagos, called 'I Need To Know'.

Akindele describes the time:
" When I started 'I Need To Know', I never thought I would be this celebrated. I was 20 years old then. When I shot the pilot I just wanted to do it, I wanted to showcase my God given talent.... I remember the director telling me I was overacting because I was excited about it."

 Akindele is best known for her portrayal of Jenifa, and she explains why the character has continued to appeal to audience:
"Jenifa is witty, she's crazy, she's a go getter, she doesn't want to take no for an answer."

CNN hears that Akindele's success as Jenifa led her to establish her own production company, Scene One Productions, as well as bringing many accolades, with her series receiving four awards since 2015.

Reflecting on this success Akindele tells the programme:
"All I can say is I'm grateful. It's not easy for you to work hard and people appreciate you."

Noe working on a new TV drama examining the music industry in Nigeria, called 'Industreet', Akindele has also founded 'Jenifa's Foundation'.

Explaining the programme's work, she tells CNN:
"We reach out to young people, we empower them. We help them acquire skills, we help them discover their special gift, their talent in acting and music and dance."

When asked what her advice would be for upcoming actors and performers in Nigeria, Akindele tells the program me:
"Stay focused. When you know what you want for yourself, when you're focused, you'll get there."