British-Nigerian actress Genoveva Kenechukwu Umeh has opened up about her journey from Enugu State to becoming one of Nollywood’s most sought-after new-generation stars.
Speaking in an interview with BBC Igbo, the actress recounted her early years in Nigeria before her family relocated to the United Kingdom in 2006.
“I was born in Enugu State, where I attended St. Cyprian Primary School before proceeding to Command Day Secondary School. I completed only my first year of junior secondary education before moving abroad with her family,” she said.
The actress, who later earned a Law degree from the University of Surrey, said her path to stardom was far from glamorous, noting that she began her acting career with minor and background roles.
“I didn’t start my Nollywood journey as a star. I did a lot of walk-on and background roles before getting bigger opportunities,” she said.
While growing up in London, Umeh developed a deeper passion for acting through school drama classes. She credited her parents for nurturing her confidence and creativity from an early age.
“My parents always encouraged me to express myself freely. Whether it was dancing, singing or speaking my mind, they wanted me to be confident and give my best. They also told me that school came first and that a solid educational background would open many doors. That was why I studied law. After graduating, I handed them my certificate and moved to Lagos a week later to pursue my dreams,” she recalled.
The Blood Sisters Star actress also spoke passionately about preserving her Igbo identity, revealing that her parents ensured she remained connected to her language and culture despite growing up in the United Kingdom.
On what inspired her acting career, the actress said her passion for performing came naturally and was not influenced by any particular Nollywood star.
However, she acknowledged that watching accomplished actresses such as Genevieve Nnaji and Adesua Etomi-Wellington helped her realise that a successful acting career was achievable.
