Young and In Charge: Mary Chukwu

Its Nollywood season on Abj Loving, LOL, last week it was an actor and today we have an actress. Last week, our young person of the week had the support of his parents from the get go, but our young person for this week didn’t have such luck, but after obeying her parent’s wish for her, she still went ahead to pursue her dream and has eventually won them over. I have followed her work for sometime now, and I must admit she only goes for movies with a message, that in itself is admirable, coming from someone in a generation so obsessed with fame and fortune, its refreshing to see actresses who work strictly based on the quality and message contained in a script. She recently added the feather of directorship to her cap by directing my Church’s passion play, which I must say was beautiful. Meet our young person of the week; she is young, she is hardworking, she is brimming with inspiration, she is Mary Chukwu.

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Mary Chukwu, I am also known as Preety MC, I am a very passionate actor and an NMA (Nigerian Movie Award) Nominee for best supporting Actress for my role in the movie Broken.

What was growing up like for you?

Growing up wasn't all rosy, but having both my parents and siblings made it quite an experience for me.  

Tell us a little about your educational background. 

I am a graduate of English Literature from the University of Abuja, I also have a Diploma in Mass Communications from the same University and a certificate of Acting from High Definition Film Academy.                                                                                                 

                                 

What inspired your sojourn into Nollywood and when did you start chasing this dream?

Sheer passion I'll say, growing up, I realised I was mostly happy whenever I find myself doing anything related to entertainment in church, school etc and 'that' motivated my quest for this dream.

How did your parents react to the news that you wanted to take up a profession that is not seen as a professional one in our part of the world? Initially I wanted to study Theatre Arts but my parents refuted saying "it was mad people's thing", but I still went ahead and followed my passion and after a while they gave in and supported me.

Along side acting and modeling you are also an entrepreneur; tell us a little about that. How do they relate with what you studied in school?

Well aside acting and modelling, I do jewelry business by the side. And each time I tell someone 'I'm An Actor' they'll go 'oh so you read Theatre Arts' and I'll just smile.

Are there other hidden talents, that we should know about?

I'm a highly instinctive person, so don't be surprised if you see me delve into fashion designing and possibly makeup artistry in the future.  

What movies have you been in?

The Stallion, Broken, Blue Flame, Double Ganger, New Morning, Pump Price etc… I am currently working on a movie called The City Called Max.

What has the experience been like, acting, modelling and entrepreneurship?

Life in general isn't easy, so I am just striving in both. 

How do you handle the popularity that comes with being an actor?

*Smiles*... I’m not that popular yet but when I get to that bridge I'll definitely cross it. 

What challenges do you face as an actor and entrepreneur?

Not much challenges because I don’t let one get in the way of the other. 

What do you love most about what you do? 

Versatility.   

Have you ever felt like giving up on your dreams? NOT AT ALL, infact I sense a tougher challenge ahead, but I'll conquer. 

Who or what motivates you?

God and Man. The future is also a high motivation for me.

How does your typical day go?

As an actor, the only time I have a typical day is when I have a shooting schedule... I just follow it to the later.  

What do you like to do for fun?

I love swimming; I also love movies and reading books. 

You have a very powerful position, as part of the media, you help inform how people think, what decisions they make etc., how do you intend to bring about change with what you do? 

As a media tool, I yearn for professionality, that way I can interpret my roles very well thereby affecting life positively. 

With the level of success you have achieved, we are all itching to know how old you are.

I'm 27 years old.

A word of advice to young Nigerians with dreams that they are yet to or are afraid to pursue.

My dear friends "Not venturing to attempt a risk IS a higher risk”. So please ask God for directions then follow your passion.

  

The media/entertainment industry seems to be a money spinner now, what is your take on the industry and what advice do you have for young people that wish to go into this sector and even for those already in it?

Yes Nollywood has come to stay and has been of great benefit to the Nigerian economy. I'd like to implore everyone in this business to up their games and stay focused.  

Where do you see yourself on a personal level, as an actor and as an entrepreneur in the next five years?

WOW... Like I'll always say "in less than five years I may not have to introduce myself anymore so help me God" Amen.

Mary can be reached through the following means:

BB Pin: 25C9CA81

Facebook: Preety MC

Twitter: Preetymc1

Instagram: @ugochi4luv12

GSM: 08051353913.