In a candid and inspiring interview, Nigerian music-video director Praise Onyeagwalam, better known as Director Pink, revealed how the early realities of acting auditions nearly derailed her dreams — and how those difficult experiences ultimately shaped her path to success behind the camera.
The Early Dream
Pink always believed she would be an actress. The allure of performing, transformation, stepping into characters — all of it appealed deeply to her.
But the road to realizing that dream, she says, was littered with unexpected and often demeaning obstacles.
Auditions: Where the Dream Clashed with Reality
It was during the audition process that reality began to cut sharply.
Long lines of hopefuls waiting their turn. Endless rejections.
And worse, what she calls “shady calls” — invitations from male filmmakers to audition or meet at compromised or inappropriate locations under pretexts.
These experiences built up. One audition after another, the indignities piled up until Pink realized that the acting world, at least as she encountered it, was neither safe nor respectful for someone who valued dignity. “I wanted to be an actress but the humiliation was too much,” she admitted.
The Pivot to Directing
Rather than give up on creativity altogether, Pink chose to take control. If acting required depending on others — often with little recourse — directing offered autonomy.
She realized that as a director, she could not only tell stories but also shape the environment, offer opportunities, and, importantly, preserve her self-respect.
Pink didn’t arrive where she is without investment and struggle. She shares that for years she worked “behind the scenes,” learning through observation, online courses, trial-and-error.
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She sacrificed comfort, social life, and endured moments when promises fizzled out or people lost interest after day one.
Success, Recognition, and Advice
Her hard work has paid off. Since formally stepping into directing, Pink has directed music videos for highly visible artists — names like Wizkid, Chike (featuring Simi), Naira Marley — honing her style and reputation.
She has also won awards, including Best Video Director at AFRIMMA and Music Video of the Year at the Headies.
Her story isn’t just one of personal breakthrough. Pink uses her journey as a beacon for others.
She urges upcoming directors, especially women, to be patient; to expect delays, to accept that the climb will be steep — but that faithfulness and hard work can reshape the narrative.
