Reality TV star and actress Oluwabamike Olawunmi, better known as Bambam, is giving flowers to the woman who helped ignite her acting career—filmmaker and creative powerhouse Bolanle Austen-Peters.
Speaking at the third graduation ceremony of The ACADEMY for the Performing Arts (TAFTA) on April 11, Bambam reflected on her remarkable transformation from a Big Brother Naija contestant to a respected face in Nollywood. The event, themed “Celebrating Creative Transformations,” was held at Terra Kulture Arena in Victoria Island, Lagos, and spotlighted rising stars in the performing arts.
In an emotional tribute, Bambam described Austen-Peters as a mentor and career catalyst who gave her the platform to shine.
“She identified my talent and positioned me on this stage in South Africa. My first major role, Collision Course on Netflix, was because of this woman. Mommy, I celebrate you. I adore you. You will remain my role model forever.”
“Purpose Can Never Be Taken from You”
Bambam encouraged TAFTA graduates to pursue their craft with passion, authenticity, and resilience. She recalled how her own journey was full of rejection and humble beginnings.
“When we did Moremi the Musical, I didn’t get the role I auditioned for. I ended up with a nameless part in a film called The Little Boy. But look at me now. Who’s the queen today?”
The actress emphasized that no role is too small, urging students to always give their best and trust the process.
“They Called Me Fake”
Bambam didn’t hold back when reflecting on her time in the Big Brother Naija: Double Wahala house. While many criticized her soft-spoken, feminine nature as inauthentic, she stood her ground.
“They said I was fake. That no one can be that soft. But now, by God’s grace, that same character is seen as a symbol of femininity in Nigeria. The world is celebrating authenticity. Don’t fall for peer pressure. If they mock you, no send their papa.”
A Steady Climb to Stardom
Since leaving the BBNaija house in 2018, Bambam has steadily built her career with grit, faith, and consistency. Married to fellow housemate Teddy A with two children, she has made a name for herself in Nollywood, earning praise for her work in films like Love in Every Word and the critically acclaimed Collision Course.
“When I came out of BBNaija, I said I wanted to represent Nigeria, both nationally and internationally. Whether I was paid N5,000 or N5 million, I never reduced the quality of my performance. Today the world is celebrating me, and this can be your story too.”
Bambam’s inspiring words remind rising talents that authenticity, faith, and hard work are the real tickets to success—and that sometimes, all it takes is one person to believe in your magic.
