Entertainment
Why I love more experienced men – Actress Cynthia Shalom
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Nollywood actress Cynthia Shalom first appeared in a movie produced by Chico Ejiro in 2015. It was a cameo role where she only appeared in one scene. Since then she has forged on, carving her own niche in the industry. She shares her story in this interview.
Background
Unfortunately, I didn’t have a pleasant childhood. One of the memories I remember was the first time I travelled by air. My mum was away for a while and she called me and told me that she had bought a flight ticket for me. She arranged for me to get to the airport. I got on the airplane and met her in Lagos. I remember everything vivid. It was so awesome and I would never forget it.
Education
I had my elementary education at Army Children’s School and Daystar Primary School. I went on to Brainfield Secondary School (all in Rivers State). I studied Management at the University of Port Harcourt. I also did some professional courses afterwards. I have a certification in project management and other soft skills.
Ambitions
As kids back then, we all wanted to be professionals—either doctors, lawyers or engineers. There was no room for other professions; it had to be either of those three and I honestly wanted to be a doctor. I attempted the Joint Admission Matriculation Board examinations for some years (without success). I later ‘came to my senses’ and told myself that this thing (Medicine) was not for me.
Movies
The first movie I appeared in was (produced) by Chico Ejiro in 2015. It was a cameo role and I only appeared in one scene. Frank Dallas was part of that project; may his soul rest in peace. However, I cannot remember the name of the movie.
Next Movie Star
After I won the reality television series, The Next Movie Star, season 11, in 2015, I appeared in a movie titled, An Hour with a Shrink, in which I acted alongside Annie Idibia and Gbenro Ajibade.
Parent’s reaction
My parents are supportive and they have always been that way. I am so grateful for the kind of family I have. I’m also thankful for the support and prayers of my mother. My family has been my greatest backbone.
Lessons
It has been a very bumpy and challenging ride. I have learnt to be a team player. I have learnt to make better decisions; I have learnt to respect other people’s opinions because people see things differently. In all, hard work, consistency and grace matters. It has not been easy.
Challenges
The fear of rejection was a major challenge. There were times we went for auditions and worked so hard to get there, (only to be rejected). Perhaps, I wasn’t good enough then. As time went on, I realised that there are some particular traits they look for in a character; maybe I didn’t just possess them and it didn’t mean that I was not a good actress. The challenge of standing out from the crowd was also something I had to deal with. I also wasn’t paid in my early days in the industry after starring in some movies. Filmmakers made me feel like they were doing me a favour by featuring me in their movies. However, those were part of the dues I had to pay.
Body
I consider my eyes to be my best features. I have a good body; I work out and eat well. I believe I get attention because I have a beautiful soul.
Men
I want my man to be intelligent, have a good sense of humour, fear God and be kind.
Nollywood
Sadly, Nollywood doesn’t pay well but I don’t want to go into all that. It is an established fact that I have other sources of income and that is how I cope.
Roles
My only limit will be going nude. I look out for the storyline, theme and dialogue. I also assess my role before I charge the person. I also like to play roles that would challenge me.
Relationship
I want a man who is more experienced and cultured who would share my values, celebrate my achievements and support me. I like a man that has a more sophisticated taste. It doesn’t really have to be expensive all the time. He should live a healthy lifestyle, be ready for a deeper commitment and be financially stable.
Fame
I am not famous yet. I am just recognised for the hard work I put into my craft and I am grateful for that. I am glad that I can still go to shopping malls, the beach, and other public places. I am also comfortable; I still do things that normal people do.
Embarrassment
One experience I can recall was actually embarrassing in a good way. A fan met me and started screaming my name. I also get nasty messages on social media.
Business
I am a movie producer. I am currently working on some other things that will be announced soon.
Qualities
People don’t know that I am a very shy person. They actually don’t believe when I say this. I don’t get shy when I have to work but in my personal life, I can be very shy.
Harassment
I have never been sexually harassed and I thank God for. When I hear many girls complain of being harassed sexually, I wonder if it’s the same industry that I belong to.
Fashion
I won’t walk around naked in the name of fashion. I like to be comfortable in my own skin. I don’t have to impress anyone in the name of fashion.