I was always led to believe you should take care of yourself, trust in your abilities and you're the author of your own destiny.

Certainly, I look for different characters 'cause I always like to keep people guessing, and I also don't like to get typecast. I made a concerted effort, last year and this year, to get a range of characters, just to show people the range that I have, and for them to be able to see the artistry beyond the color.

I'm of Nigerian descent, from the Yoruba tribe. Names are very significant in that culture. It basically states your purpose in life.

I just want to keep the diversity and the options open. In terms of what I'm looking for, I'd like to do a lead action role.

The only way I know how to deliver is to focus; some people can turn it on or off - I'd rather stay in character.

I've played different nationalities, and everything from vulnerable to strong to crooked to demented. It just increases your possibilities of work because, if people know you can do just about anything, then you're going to get more offers. That's what I want to do.

The only way you can influence your fate is to put your soul into your performance and hope it registers with the audience.