By Rita Chioma,

Popular Nollywood actor, OC Ukeje was selected as one of the Rising Stars for the Toronto International Film Festival alongside his co-star on the movie ‘The Arbitration’ Somkele Idhalama.

The multi-talented thespian spoke to Bella Naija recently where he talked about how he feels being selected as one of TIFF’s rising stars for 2016 and his plans for the future.

“I’m relatively known in Nigeria and some parts of Africa but I’ll definitely be a newbie when I step into the North American or European markets because we do not have or employ the capacity of media machinery that serves the more established markets. We don’t have the infrastructure for it either. And it’s simply that. I have a fair amount of experience that can expedite the process of visibility in bigger markets, other things being equal. But I totally celebrate the position of being chosen as a Rising Star in a bigger market. I’m most definitely elated, ” he gushed.

When asked about his role model in the industry – Nollywood /Hollywood, Ukeje said, “Hmm. I’d really like to be likened to RMD, for his craft, longevity, re-invention of self, influence and respect/reverence. I’d also like to be likened to Denzel Washington or Leonardo DiCaprio for their depth, their total reliance on their craft, their symbol status and their simplistic approach to life.”

The happily married actor concluded by dishing out words of advice  for those who are still trying to find an anchor in the acting/ media industry.

Hear him: “I think again that the most important thing in this business to be absolutely certain that this is where you’re supposed to be. It would be pointless to be running around for years and feel like it has been a waste of time. No doubt, there will be seasons of doubt. But once you’re true to yourself, then develop a vision and a future for your career. Be resilient. Follow world standards. And wait for your time. In your own lane.‎”