Encomium
‘Shuga means a lot to me’ — IFEANYI IKUBESE (Femi)
How much of your character are you in real life?
My character Femi is a little different from me in real life. I love to have fun but I always know where to draw the line.
You currently enjoy a budding career in music, why the branch into acting?
Entertainment is something I have a passion for. Whichever way I am doing it through acting, performing or hosting events – I enjoy doing it.
What does Shuga mean to you?
Shuga means a lot to me. it’s a project I hold so much at heart. I love the message behind the show, and the fact that it relates to young people. It’s a show that is very realistic and I love that about it. I am privileged to be an ambassador of a great show like Shuga.
What is your take on the themes around which the series revolves, especially the issue of gender based violence, women empowerment and parent child communication?
Personally, I frown against any form of violence and I think it’s right time for women to begin to empower themselves rather than wait for the men. I can see our society steering towards that direction. Lastly, parent child communication is very important in a home. Kids learn the wrong things from friends, if parents begin to warm up to their children and are open to listen to them this will create an effective parent and child communication which will help a lot of children become better.
What kind of impact do you think Shuga will have on its target viewers?
Shuga has always had a massive impact on its viewers. The past seasons of Shuga has a big followership all over the world and Shuga 3 is even bigger.
What lessons have you taken away from the Shuga experience?
It’s been an amazing experience. I have had the opportunity of working with talented cast, directors and producers. Being a part of the show has also sharpened my knowledge about HIV because now I get to speak to young people about such issues.
What was it like working with prolific playwright and director, Biyi Bandele?
Biyi Bandele is an amazing director, he gives you an opportunity to express yourself. I have learned a lot from working under him as an actor and I would jump at any opportunity to work with him again.
Do you have any personal experience of the themes around which Shuga revolves and how has it helped in your interpretation of your character?
I don’t know anyone personally but I’ve spoken to people with personal experiences revolving around the themes of Shuga, and it has really helped me a lot in playing my character.
