No African woman desires to raise a child with no trace of a father. No African man’s deepest desire is to raise the child of another man. Somewhere in Western Nigeria, a child was born and it was crystal clear that she would not bear the name of the family she opened her eyes to see. She was what yoruba call, ‘Ọmọ ale’ – she was regarded as an illegitimate offspring of her unmarried mother.
I am a young lady with a small stature but I have a vision that I will get to the tap, fetch water and leave the tap running for others to fetch.
This is my dream.
I have always desired the best in life but watching my role model speak, I found the right terms to define what I really desired, ‘fetch from the tap and leave the tap running for others to fetch’.
These defined terms were inspired by Nigeria’s Helen Paul.
Tell me to describe this role model of mine, I will say that she is a definition of a life orchestrated by God, from the rejected stone that became most treasured in the building.
Helen Paul, born Helen Eniola Omonitan on January 29, 1978, in Lagos State, Nigeria. She grew up in Fadeyi, Lagos. Her background with her grandmother built in her an uncommon knowledge about life. Thus, guided her interaction with people and her choices in life. Some words by her grandma that stuck with her while growing were, “Person wey no do well, nobody dey celebrate am.” “Anyone wey near you pass, na him you go suspect pass.” Their words were specific to the girl, Helen due to the happenings around her and the nature of her birth.
As a young girl, her sanguine nature was disliked by her peers for she was loved by the elders around her, for her kind gesture towards them. It was certain that she was not an ordinary child, she was a diamond in the rush. Some persons who took cognisance of her star, thought to tap from it by the practice giving her money to buy beans for herself after school. The doer of this practice believed that the young Helen’s hand was blessed. So, the young girl used the money, in return the woman who issued the only will make sales in her business.
Evidence abounds that the girl, Helen’s life was a divine orchestra. This remarkably played out in how she gained her admission into the University of Lagos, after a failed attempt to gain university admission.
Her breakthrough came when a kid who was to make a voice over for a project was not available. Someone needed to speak like a child and boom! She came into the picture. This marked the beginning of the future for her.
Ma’am Helen Paul is a quintessential light to the fact that a woman can be in the media space or show biz yet build a sustained career and marriage, this is against the belief of failed marriages within the media industry. She is married to Femi and also graduated with Doctor of Law!
Academically, Helen Paul achieved a remarkable milestone by earning a Ph.D. in Theater Arts from the University of Lagos. Her pursuit of higher education while maintaining a thriving career in entertainment showcases her dedication ritual dimension to her multifaceted persona. Her academic achievement also stands as a testament to her resilience, navigating the challenges of academia while balancing a demanding career. More importantly, she is a Professor and a HOD at Heart International University, USA.
Bear in mind that she was born out of wedlock, grew in a toxic environment that barely guarded her mental health regarding her birth, did not know her mother for a very long time, and grew up with her old grandmother.
Her tongue is God’s special gift to her, from how she uses it for comedy to how she used it to work at media houses, from how she twerks her voice to sound like a child’s to how her tongue is her weapon in standing for herself. She was indeed a diamond in the rough.
The laughter that emanates from Helen Paul’s comedic performances is not merely entertainment; it is a testament to her innate ability to connect with audiences. Early in her career, she embraced stand-up comedy as her medium of expression. Her comedic style is a unique fusion of wit, humor, and social commentary. Through her performances, Helen tackles societal issues, making audiences not only laugh but also reflect on the complexities of contemporary life in Nigeria. Her humor is a blend of relatability and clever observations, creating a distinct comedic persona that resonates with a diverse audience.
In the dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s entertainment industry, Helen Paul’s foray into acting added another layer to her artistic journey. She seamlessly transitioned from stand-up comedy to the world of film, leaving an indelible mark on Nollywood, the country’s prolific film industry. Helen’s acting career is characterized by its breadth; she effortlessly navigates between comedic roles that showcase her innate humor and more serious roles that delve into the nuances of human emotions. Her performances are marked by authenticity, bringing characters to life with a depth that goes beyond the surface.
What distinguishes Helen Paul in the acting arena is her ability to transcend stereotypes. In an industry where actors are often typecast, she has embraced diverse roles that challenge her as an artist. From lighthearted comedies to intense dramas, Helen’s repertoire showcases her versatility and commitment to expanding her artistic horizons. Her impact in Nollywood is not only measured by box office success but also by the narrative shift she represents—a departure from traditional gender roles within the industry.
Beyond the scripted world of entertainment, Helen Paul ventured into the dynamic realm of media hosting. Her charismatic presence found a natural home on television, where she hosted and co-hosted various shows. Whether conducting interviews, presenting, or hosting events, she brought a vibrant energy to the screen, making her a beloved figure in the hearts of her fans. Through media hosting, Helen extended her reach, connecting with audiences in a more personal and immediate way.
Helen Paul’s influence extends beyond her individual success. As a woman in the competitive and often male-dominated field of comedy, she has broken barriers and shattered preconceived notions. Her journey is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring female comedians, demonstrating that talent knows no gender. In a society where gender roles are deeply ingrained, Helen Paul stands as a trailblazer, challenging norms and paving the way for more women to pursue their passions in the entertainment industry.
Her impact goes beyond the entertainment sector; it ripples through societal perceptions and expectations. Helen Paul has become a symbol of empowerment, proving that women can excel in diverse fields and defy societal expectations. Her story is one of resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
In examining Helen Paul’s journey, it is crucial to recognize the cultural and societal context in which she operates. Nigeria’s entertainment industry is a vibrant tapestry reflecting the country’s diversity and dynamism. Helen’s ability to navigate this landscape, transcending regional and cultural boundaries, contributes to her widespread appeal. She embodies the spirit of a nation that thrives on creativity, humor, and storytelling.
As Nigeria’s entertainment industry continues to evolve, Helen Paul remains a force to be reckoned with. Her story is not just about personal success; it is a narrative that encapsulates the changing dynamics of the industry. From the local comedy clubs to international film festivals, Helen Paul’s influence reverberates, showcasing the global appeal of Nigerian entertainment.
If Helen Paul can pull through to excellence, then you too can. Moreso, keep up with what you know how to do well, do it excellently, posterity awaits your manifestation.
To this end, this is the story of Professor. Helen Paul.
Do we have any other Professor who doubles as a Comedian in Nigeria? She is indeed a Trailblazer.
Posted by ADEYEMO, JESUTOFUNMI.She is a creative writer and multiple awards winner.
