Omowunmi “Mimi” Onalaja is a prominent figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, known for her versatility as an actress, model, TV presenter.
She gained popularity as a co-host on EbonyLife TV’s “Moments with Mo” before moving on to host her own show, “The Juice.”
Mimi has also hosted several high-profile events, including GAGE Awards 2024, Future Awards Africa’s nominee unveiling, Eloy Awards and lots more.
Her knack for interpretation scripts, earned her challenging roles in Nollywood films including multiple award-winning films–”Introducing the Kujus” and “The Kujus Again.”
Her latest feature series titled School of Hearts is set to hit the screen soon and she’s super excited about it.
In this hearty chat with Allure, the 33-year-old Thespian takes us through her career journey, upcoming project, cherished memories, personal style, and much more.
‘Introducing the Kujus” and “The Kujus Again” were huge successes. What was your experience like working on those sets?
I had the best experience playing a Kuju and working on those two films. There was a lot of synergy on set while we were filming and it was largely because of the incredible cast put together for these films, topped off with an awesome director and a great production house. My role as Pamela was my first major one in a film and I felt very lucky to have do it in such a healthy environment.
Can you tell us a bit about your character in “Introducing the Kujus” and “The Kujus Again”?
I played Pamela Kuju, wife to the eldest Kuju son, Mautin. She’s pretty chill, level-headed, rational and a calming factor for her husband who’s a bit of a hot-head. In both films, we get to see her transition from wife to mother and experience the range of emotions that come with navigating that change with her husband.
How did you prepare for these roles?
Naturally, I went over the scripts a few times to get a clear understanding of the entire dynamic between the family and specifically, how my character relates with the others. I broke her down, understanding her personality so as to make choices that feel authentic to her. Hanging out with the other actors before filming and during down times on set, also helped greatly to put me in the zone.
We’ve heard about your upcoming project, “School of Hearts;” what can you tell us about this project, and what attracted you to it?
I’m so excited about this one! School of Hearts is a series being made to cater to a young audience. It’s centered around teens in a school setting and my biggest attraction to it was that I get to play a teacher! I’ve always fancied myself as a teacher in another life; so, it was exciting to live out that dream for a short while even as make-believe.
In what way is it different from your other previous projects?
Oh! it’s definitely the energy! Young people are so expressive, dynamic and free and we really got a full dose of that on this set. It was electrifying just watching them be their most creative selves while filming and I can’t wait for the world to see what we created.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your role so far?
Hmmm, maybe having to film one scene with a lot of characters over multiple days? The show has a very large cast and the logistics of that can be quite taxing, but it really was a challenge more for the production team and it was one they rose to quite gracefully.
Can we talk about some memorable moments in your life and career beginning from your early days?
I’ve lived a pretty happy and full life and I’m only 33! I owe a lot of who I am to my parents; my childhood was beautiful and rooted in love and I’m grateful for the centered adult that has produced. It’s helped me navigate the industry and take on new opportunities calmly but firmly. I’ve largely remained open and optimistic throughout my journey and it’s seen me through various transitions, from my early days as a presenter on Ebonylife TV, to becoming a Compere of repute and now, an actor. There have been so many memorable moments and I’m grateful for them all.
You’re known for your versatility as an actress; is there a particular role you enjoy playing the most?
I don’t think I’ve even begun to scratch the surface when it comes to my versatility. I’m looking forward to putting in the work, to continue to grow as an actor and tackle a wide range of characters and emotions. I can talk about my dream role though; I’ve recently got sucked into watching medical dramas and would absolutely love to play a doctor! The medical terms, the fast pace, the coats, it would be a dream!
With your growing influence in the industry, do you feel a responsibility to portray certain types of characters or stories?
Yes, there’s definitely a sense of responsibility; I’ll always be loyal to stories that are honest, compelling and entertaining. I’m pretty open to a wide variety of areas in the world of storytelling and will say, yes to characters that I as a person may not even relate to, as long as the story being told does not perpetuate harm in any way.
Who are those people you admire (role models) and why do you like them?
There are so many awesome individuals, far and near that have gone ahead of me and done great things that I look up to and admire. Many of them are women and I’m so grateful for the steps they’ve taken and strides they’ve made as my journey’s been made so much easier for it. I greatly admire people like Beyonce for her consistency, the strong brand she’s been able to build and the seeming balance she’s achieved in a very loud and intrusive world. Oprah, for the incredible media empire she’s built as a black woman in America is another source of inspiration for me. Closer to home, I’m a huge fan of Mo Abudu! I’ve had the opportunity to work with her over the years and it’s been incredible witnessing all that tenacity and grit up close. She truly embodies “if you can think it, you can do it” and I constantly pull inspiration from that and her. Amongst my peers, Fisayo Longe is a perfect example of a woman that lives by her own rules and gives herself the grace to fail forward while living authentically, and speaking her truth unashamedly, all things I greatly respect and admire.
What are some of the principles that you hold onto in life?
My greatest life principle is being kind and extending grace. I hold myself to it greatly and try to always live by it in my daily interactions. There’s always a reason for a person’s actions and while some may be off/wrong, seeing it through the lens of kindness and grace will alter my reactions, mostly for the better.
How do you balance your acting career with your other endeavors, such as your work in media and TV/ Event hosting?
Thankfully, finding balance between the different things that I do has always worked itself out. My schedule mostly aligns itself and while there are moments where it seems like I’m going non-stop and can’t catch a break, the times where I get to rest extensively more than make up for it. It’s one of the things I love the most about what I do, the flexibility of it all. I also have awesome management in The Temple Management Company and while everything working out might seem so easy, they do the hardwork behind the scenes to ensure it all aligns perfectly.
How do you spend your spare time?
My spare time is spent on a range of activities; from simple couch surfing and binge-watching, to lunch/dinner dates with my friends and travelling. I also play tennis and go to occasional dance class.
What is your definition of style?
Style to me is first and foremost, personal. It’s what you feel most comfortable and confident in. It’s what feels true, authentic and most you. My personal style is loose, colourful, chic. I mostly go with how I feel in trying new things; and, as long as my comfort isn’t compromised, I’m good!
Favourite holiday location?
This is a tough one as a few cities I’ve visited have my heart, but I’ll say Barcelona, Lisbon and Positano (I have a thing for European cities clearly). I’m looking forward to exploring more African destinations, Capetown being at the very top of the list!
What would be your advice to any young female who wants join Nollywood?
My advice to young female Nollywood hopefuls is simple: be willing to put in the work, do not be afraid to reach out to anyone in the pursuit of your goals (the worst you will get is a no), be patient but resilient and most importantly, do not loose who you are in the process.