Dillish chasing her Nollywood dream
Namibia’s 2013 Big Brother Africa star, influencer and actress, Dillish Matthews, is about to head to Nollywood again after attracting the attention of Nigerian entertainment heavyweights.
Just a few months after starring in the much-talked-about Nigerian web series ‘Assistant Madams’, Matthews – affectionately known by her first name only – is again set to act in an international feature film titled ‘Bodies of Influence’.
Also known as ‘D-money’, Dillish joined VIBEZ! for an intimate conversation about her thriving acting career and getting recognised beyond the Namibian borders.
“It’s a big deal to me, seeing that I come from such a small country where the movie industry is almost non-existent. It’s a proud moment for me and my supporters across the continent,” she said excitedly.
Dillish debuted as an actress in Nollywood, co-starring alongside her fellow BBA housemate Melvin Oduah and one of the acting giants in Nigeria, Nonso Diobi, in the movie titled ‘Amber’ in 2014.
“I have not been acting professionally in a long while, but the director, producers and my fellow cast members were so patient and kind to me. Truly remarkable to see how they welcomed me with open arms and believed in me,” she shared about her experience of acting in Nollywood.
Nollywood is a dream factory and the 30-year-old actress is chasing her place in it as hard as she can.
She was approached by the producing team of ‘Bodies of Influence’, and grabbed the opportunity with both hands.
“When they contacted me, I didn’t have to think twice, seeing they are such a huge production company. I was totally blown away knowing I will get to act alongside award-winning actors.”
Produced by video-streaming platform, Ogelle, ‘Bodies of Influence’ is based on true events and follows the story of a young woman who finds herself over her head when she befriends a trio of dangerous con artists masquerading as social media influencers.
The forthcoming project boasts a PanAfrican cast including Nigerian Big Brother Naija star Mercy Eke, former Miss Tanzania Wema Sepatu, and Ghanaian actress Salma Mumin.
Sharing her opinion on the local film industry, Dillish noted that although Namibia has got talents with great potential, there is a lack of opportunities in the country.
“I would like to see this change in the future and perhaps invite Nollywood to Namibia. We have got so much to unlock here.”
Asked what she aspires to achieve in her career, Dillish said she aims to be recognised as a Namibian actress and eventually become a producer.
“I would like to advise young people to follow their dreams and get out of their comfort zone. Magic will happen when you aggressively chase and believe in yourself.”
Dillish is not taking a break on serving us 2021 goals, as she was also recently nominated for the Africa Choice Awards in the female personality of the year category.
She will go head-to-head against big personalities such as Bonang Matheba, Pearl Thusi, Benedicta Gafah and Erica Nlewedim.