Creative of the Week: Olympia Owira

Olympia Owira (@shyolympia) is an Actor, Assistant Director, Model and a Social Media Influencer.

1. Did you always know you wanted to be an actor?

No, as a kid I wanted to be a lawyer.  All that changed when I joined high school and decided I wanted to be a broadcaster.  My aunt who is an actor then introduced me to acting and the rest is history.

2. What is your creative process like?

When given a role, I watch movies that have a similar character. I also
watch YouTube videos that would help me to get into character. If it’s say, a house help role, I would chill with one and borrow a few things from them.

3. How much do your life experiences influence your work?

A lot. My life is a working experience.

4. Who are your favourite actors and why?

Here at home I wouldn’t pick one. I am spoilt for choice because we have very talented actors in the country. Globally, my number one would be Whoopi Goldberg; she is amazing. Also, James Spade; he evokes different emotions. I’m also a fan of Taraji P. Henson, Viola Davis, Meryl Streep, Susan Cooper, Jennifer Aniston, Denzel Washington, Idris Elba and Michael Ely. Don’t we all like them coz they are yummy and great actors as well.

5. What are your thoughts on acting in Kenya, what challenges have you faced as an actor and how do you think we can improve on the craft?

We have really improved. The fact that we have acting workshops, is a clearly indication of how far we have come. Plus when you flip though channels, you will see a lot of locally produced shows with very talented actors.

Some of the challenges faced are:
Lack of jobs over an elongated period of time; January to April is a dry period for most actors and crew.
Lack of support on the ground; our own don’t support our talent by either watching plays or following our shows on TV but they will download other people’s series. Also, piracy.
Payment may take longer or expectations from the fans maybe higher than what actors can deliver.

Like Nigerians support their own, Kenyans should do that as well because when we shine we shine together.

6. You also work as a 1^st Assistant Director. How did you get into this?

Our Director Simiyu Baraza, asked me to shout, ”Action!” in one of the scenes. He suggested I try both acting and assistant directing and I thought why not!

7. What work/project are you most proud of?

I can say all the projects I have worked on have been amazing, since I never thought I would get this far as an Actor/ Model and Assistant Director. God has been good to me.

8. What advice would you give an aspiring actor that you wish you had gotten when you were starting out?

Never give up and be vigilant; it’s not easy. Work hard because you can only be a better version of you.

9. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I don’t even know what I will be doing next month, but whatever journey God will take me on I will work twice as much to get there.

Bonus Question

10. If you could work in any existing TV series or film, which would it be and why?

Game of Thrones. I love the acting, the set design, the graphics and would love to sit on the iron throne. Wouldn’t you?

Check out Olympia’s profile and work below.

Facebook: Olympia Owira

Instagram: @shyolympia