Pathetically joyous Joan

After landing a nomination at the prestigious Kalasha Awards for the Best Actress gong for the movie Miss Pathetic, Joan Wanjiru aka Amara says she’s not pathetically naïve, writes Austine Okande

P: Who is Joan Wanjiru?

J: I am a modest, soft-spoken 22-year-old girl who adores doing exciting things like acting and singing. But more importantly, I am a go-getter.

 

P: What was your first major role in a film?

J: My first major role was in the film Miss Pathetic, where I played the role of Amara, a teenage girl who had to put up with an abusive mother.

 

P: Many actors perform for years before getting recognition, but you have defied odds by landing the nomination for Best Female Actress on your debut picture, Miss Pathetic.  How did you feel?

J: Well, I was elated beyond words. I think I was recognised because I am a natural on stage. I never try to copy what other actresses do.

 

P: What was your take when you realised you had been nominated alongside established acts like Rita Dominic (Shattered) and Patricia Kihoro (Miss Pathetic) for the Best Female Actress accolade?

J: It was an astounding experience. Being categorised alongside the Nollywood icon Rita Dominic was a real boost to my inspiration of pursuing acting as a profession.

 

P: Did you always want to be an actress?

J: I have always had passion for drama and music. I often went to the theatres and would later act out the scenes on my own. However, I started acting at St Georges Girls in Nairobi in 2009.

 

P: What are some of the hurdles you have experienced in the film industry?

J: The cut-throat competition in the local film industry. Competition starts from auditioning, filming to screening stages. Being perceived by fellow thespians as naïve is also annoying. I believe that hurdles are there to help you define yourself in the industry.

 

P: Apart from acting what else do you do??

J: I’m a student at Nairobi Aviation School where I’m pursing a flight attendance course. I also work with Easy Coach Buses as a hostess. 

 

P: Does this mean that you anticipate giving up acting for a career in the aviation industry in future?

J: No, not at all. Acting is my passion.

 

P: If you were not acting, what would be your alternative career path?

J: I guess I would have opted for singing.

 

P: Are there moments that you felt like quitting your role as Amara in the film Miss Pathetic?

J: Yes, I felt like quitting. The pressure was immense but film director Paul Ekuru encouraged me.

 

P: Are you in a relationship?

J: Hahaha... When it comes to relationship issues, I don’t like commenting.  Let’s just say that I’m not single.

 

P: Who is your favourite local actor or actress?

J: That would be Shirleen Kiura aka Shish of the Tahidi High TV drama series.

 

P: Looking back on your experience in acting, what are some of the essential lessons you have learnt?

J: Being patient, welcoming feedback and following instructions from the film directors and fellow casts. And more importantly, learning from the best.

 

P: What other major projects are you currently involved in?

J: Currently I’m not shooting a movie. But I am an active performer with Next Level Production Theatre Company where we specialise in political satire and ballad operas.