Interview with Blessing Onwukwe aka Sino: From Stockfish Seller to Nollywood’s Rising Star

Blessing Onwukwe, popularly known as Sino, is a Nollywood actress of Abia origin, born and raised in Port Harcourt, now living in Lagos. She is passionate about acting and has built a promising career while also balancing other ventures.

Blessing Onwukwe

Who introduced you to acting?

I always knew I wanted to act, but in my year 3 of university, I met Emen Isong at a dinner. We talked, and I mentioned my dream of acting. She gave me her number. When I moved to Lagos and was ready, I called her. Although she didn’t remember me, she invited me to an audition. That led to my first role in her movie “Bursting Out.”

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What made you resign from a lucrative job to pursue acting?

My love for acting. I wasn’t fulfilled in that previous job. I just wanted to act.

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What was your first experience on set like?

The set of “Bursting Out” was a dream come true! I was so excited that I was sweating all through 😃. The camera operator asked why, and I said, “What do you expect? I’m standing in front of Genevieve Nnaji and **Majid Michel!” Genevieve asked if it was my first time, and I said yes. She replied, “First time and you are here? Then you are doing well.” That meant a lot to me.

I played a married woman arranging a Valentine’s ball attended by Genevieve and Majid in the movie.

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What can you say about producer Emen Isong?

Emen Isong

 

Emen Isong is a boss and a sister. She’s a blessing to Nollywood and was the first person to believe in me when I entered the industry. She still believes in me today and loves discovering new talents. Truly an amazing lady!

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What challenges do you think the industry is facing?

Many challenges in Nollywood are actually Nigerian problems—poor roads, electricity issues, and other infrastructural challenges. But the industry itself has grown tremendously: scripts are better, equipment has improved, and directing has evolved.

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As an Igbo lady, what’s unique about your culture and traditions?

We are strong traditional people. The Igbo are known for their drive; we can make something great out of nothing. I may not be extremely traditional myself 😜, but I appreciate the culture.

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What’s your favorite Igbo delicacy and how is it prepared?

okazi soup

I love Okazi Soup with melon balls in it. The melon (called “ngbam” in my dialect) is grounded, then pounded with onions, pepper, and salt until it turns into a hard paste. The paste is molded into tiny balls and added to the soup, which is eaten with meat and fish. Simply amazing!

Which of your projects has been the most challenging and why?

I give my all to every role, but my last movie with Biodun Stephens was the most challenging. I cried throughout and was completely exhausted—but I loved every moment.

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What do you do outside of acting?

I sell stockfish—strictly cod stockfish. I supply supermarkets, eateries, and homes. It’s called “Odawai Stock Fish” after my late mother’s maiden name. I also relax by watching movies and reading.

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Which part of the world would you like to visit and why?

The Bahamas—just to chill, enjoy the sea, and experience something different.

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Any unique plans this year?

I’d love to explore some caves in the middle of the ocean—something breathtaking. With the pandemic, I might try next year instead!

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Tell us about your role in “Unbroken.”

Blessing Onwukwe

I played Nse Malafa, a troubled and bipolar woman dealing with her mental health and her relationship with her son, Nafike. It was a challenging but fulfilling role.

Any awards yet?

Not yet, but I remain hopeful!

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Advice for upcoming actors?

Love what you do and pursue it wholeheartedly. It will get tough, but you must get tougher. Avoid shortcuts—they won’t improve you.

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Cheers!

Connect with Blessing Onwukwe on Instagram: @xposeafricamedia
WhatsApp: 09057602999