UP CLOSE & PERSONAL WITH THE FAST RISING MOVIE STAR- BEVERLY NAYA

Truth be told. We are in love with Beverly Naya. She epitomizes all that we desire in a superstar in the making. Gorgeousness, good attitude, talented, unbridled passion for the craft and a great, but still evolving fashion sense. To crown it all, she's witty and highly intelligent. In this chat, she allowed us into her world and points us to a future she desires. Enjoy as you read! We believe, she has already captured 2013 & you 'll soon see why we believe that. 

BEVERLY NAYA

MANY ARE OF THE OPINION THAT YOU ARE ONE OF THE NEW FACE OF NOLLYWOOD & BY EXTENSION THE FILM INDUSTRY. HOW COME THERE'S SO MUCH EXPECTATION CONCERNING YOU?

I think its because I have worked extremely hard to be where I am today, my belief in myself and my abilities has also inspired this. There is a high expectation of people who exude signs of diligence, dedication and passion. To others, such individuals instinctively represent people with a bright future ahead of them. That's probably the reason, I can do nothing other than thank God.

HOW & WHEN DID YOU CATCH THE BUG FOR ACTING?

I'd say I caught it whilst doing my A Levels which was at seventeen, that was when I became the first student in eight years to obtain a full mark distinction for my performance in Stoning Mary by Debbie Tucker Green. That is definitely when my passion for acting intensified, till this very day. So far it has been an amazing journey, it can only get better.

THE OLD NOLLYWOOD SEEMS TO HAVE A FEAR OF THE NEW & UPCOMING NOLLYWOOD ACTS LIKES OF YOU & URU EKE ETC. DO YOU THINK THIS SEEMING FEAR IS JUSTIFIED IN ANYWAY?

I believe that if one is comfortable and confident in themselves and achievements there really is no need to be intimidated or threatened by anybody else. I am proud of a lot of our older actresses because they have achieved so much, and hence paved the way for the new actresses, so in that respect there is absolutely nothing to fear.

HAS THE NIGERIAN FILM INDUSTRY BEEN A DISAPPOINTMENT? OR HAS IT BEEN HOW YOU HAD EXPECTED IT TO BE LIKE?

I feel that I have coped well, the Nigerian film industry is definitely better than I imagined. Our industry is continually growing, and I feel it can only grow stronger and more lucrative for all of us. 

HOW MANY PRODUCTIONS HAVE YOU BEEN IN SO FAR. AND HOW HAS THE EXPERIENCE BEING LIKE?

I have shot about ten films, the majority of them are scheduled for cinema release in 2013. It has been a bit of a roller coaster ride, but I love the thrill, it just keeps getting more exciting.

WITH YOUR ACCENT & ALL, WON'T THAT BE A CHALLENGE FOR THE PRODUCERS. WON'T YOU BE PIGEON-HOLED OR BOXED INTO PARTICULAR KIND OF ROLES?

Not at all. I have had the opportunity of playing a vast variety of characters. If I am required to tone down my accent then I am more than willing to do so for the sake of my character.

ARE THERE PARTICULAR RITUALS YOU UNDERGO, SO AS TO GIVE YOUR UTMOST BEST FOR ROLES GIVEN TO YOU?

I just like to feel as relaxed as possible. If my character is emotionally demanding then I'd likely spend a lot of time alone whilst on set just so that I can immerse myself in the character as much as possible. If the script is given to me early enough, I prefer to have all of my lines memorised.

WHAT ARE THE PLUS SIDE OF BEING A PART OF THE INDUSTRY?

It gives me the opportunity to build my career and mould it exactly the way I want to, that's definitely a huge plus. Having young people tell you that you have inspired them in one way or another is also a very humbling experience that I cherish.

WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO SEE YOU, SAY IN 4 YEARS?

In about the four years with God by my side, I expect to be the very brand I see in my heart and mind. The aim is to be not only a well renowned actress and mogul with an empire, but a philanthropist who has helped the youth and children of Nigeria as much as possible. We are the future.

WHAT ARE THOSE THINGS YOU ENJOYING DOING?

Shopping, shoes, traveling and exploring new restaurants.

YOU ARE A VERY STYLISH YOUNG LADY & MANY HAVE ACKNOWLEDGED THE FACT. DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE?

My style is basically sexy but classy, I love to stand out wherever I am, and make positive fashion statements. 

WHO ARE YOUR ICONS IN THE BUSINESS & WHY?

I admire Bimbo Akintola, I think she is a fantastic actress, I saw her recently and told her this. I also admire aunty Joke Silva and uncle Olu Jacobs. They are a married couple that has been acting for decades. I love the support they have for each other. I want to grow old with the one I love just like they have, it's a blessing. 

WHY LEAVE THE UK TO COME BACK HOME TO ACT?

Why not? They say charity begins at home. 

YOUR EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT TILL DATE?

I attended Roehampton University, London and obtained a 2:1 bachelor's degree in film making as well as a 1st class in script writing.

WHAT'S A DEFINITE NO NO FOR YOU?

 Liars, fake, arrogant and pretentious people. Lets not forget copy cats. Be you!

HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON WHAT TO WEAR TO OCCASIONS...

It depends on what the invitation requires. However most times how I dress to events is a reflection of my mood. I have been wearing a lot of black to events lately, black makes me feel sexy and mysterious, I guess you get my drift.

DESCRIBE YOU IN YOUR OWN WORDS?

Fun, confident,  bubbly, energetic and a go getter. I'm usually pretty shy when I meet new people, but once we become friends, I am said to be quite funny and witty. Making people laugh makes me happy.

LIFE TO YOU IS........................

 ... A beautiful gift from God. My aim is to make the most out of my life by achieving every goal I have set for myself whilst enjoying every moment with the beautiful people I care about most. Everything is possible, I just want to live my life to the fullest.

Interview was conducted by Abiola Aloba, for Maestro's Media. All rights reserved. Use in whatever format without prior notification would be dealt with appropriately.