I have become less judgmental since leaving BBN — Saturday Magazine — The Guardian Nigeria News – Nigeria and World News

Dr. Munirat Antoinette Lecky, popularly known as Anto, is an actress, educator, entertainer, entrepreneur and a model. She sprung to fame when she became a semi-finalist in the 2018 season of Big Brother Naija. Munirat, who was born and raised in New Jersey, USA, to Nigerian parents, is a graduate of Exercise and Sport Science, Sport Administration from University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. She also attended the University of Central Florida’s DeVos Sport Business Management programme, and holds a Master’s of Business Administration and Master’s of Sport Business Management degrees. The humanitarian and influencer is currently the Project Lead, Arts and Special Projects at ElectHER, a non-partisan organisation working to increase female participation in politics. Prior to this, she was programmes manager for the Kunle Afolayan Productions (KAP) Film and Television Academy. Anto is the co-owner of the Anto Lecky X Taries Hair Builder and Room 22 Agency. In this interview with IJEOMA THOMAS-ODIA, she shares her evolution and interests since leaving the BBN house in 2018.

Share with us your growing up and how would you say it has shaped your personality today?
I grew up with my parents and siblings in New Jersey, USA. I went to some of the best schools in the US with programmes for ‘gifted and talented’ children. I would say my education, exposure and experiences greatly guide who I am today. I can’t lie, living in Nigeria will surely affect your personality, but I am strongly grounded in who I am.

As an ex-BBN housemate, how has it helped you evolve?
I am way less judgmental, because I have been judged on who I am by people I will never meet. I am also able to interact with all sorts of people, whereas prior to BBN, I really only associated with ‘similar’ minds.

Having been born and bred in the US, how easy was it for you to decide to settle in Nigeria?
Every day in Nigeria is a new challenge, even though I have lived in the country for a total of seven years. But luckily for me, my parents’ kind of raised us like we were still in Nigeria. I have similar stories to my peers who were raised in Nigeria. But there are definitely some things in this country that were totally against my moral code. But as they say, when in Rome, behave like the Romans.

You have a background in sports management and have started out in that path. What led to the switch or would you say you are still on course?
I worked in sports for a few years and realised the country isn’t ready for a robust sports industry because sports are still being run by the government instead of being privatised. That is one of the major reasons for my interest in politics and governance. Once the country is ready, I would definitely do more sports-related activities.

What is it like running a business in Nigeria?
Hmmmmm…It’s interesting. Definitely a lot of obstacles but I would say it’s also not as difficult as other countries. In Nigeria, we have an entrepreneurial spirit, so getting customers to believe in you is easier than say the US where people would want to know how long you’ve been in business, whether you have a website, employees and more.

You are also an actress and media personality. Will you continue in this line? How are you building and grooming this part of you coupled with the other things you are involved in?
I took a little break from pushing acting this year for personal reasons, but I am in a few projects including Ijakumo now in cinemas. I definitely plan to push hosting both television and event for next year. As for how, I do it all, coupled with everything else. It’s the grace of God. I like challenging myself and believe in myself so much to be able to do anything I set out to do, even if I drown in stress.

What informed your NGO and how are you moving it forward?
I’ve always been dedicated to community service from my high school years, so I always knew I would want to launch an NGO. Moving to Nigeria, I could see areas where people needed support and where the government is lacking, so I decided to do my bit as an active and caring citizen and person. I am hoping to expand my NGO’s coverage outside of Nigeria as well.

You recently become a year older. How do you feel and what plans do you have for your new year?
I’m grateful for life, I’m proud of all I’ve accomplished but there’s still a lot more to do. Reaching that imaginary early retirement age, I have given myself.

What drives and motivates you?
I want to live a soft life in the near future, so I’m working hard now.
You are quite fashionable. What does fashion mean to you?
For me, it is comfort, though beauty is pain. I wear whatever I like, I don’t feel like following trends. I just like to look and feel good.

What are your hobbies?
Sleeping. In recent times, I don’t think I’ve had much time to relax, but I love trying new restaurants, love the beach, and love brain games like puzzles.

What is your favourite local dish?
Porridge beans and plantain.

What is your Christmas message?
May your homes be calm, peaceful, full of joy.

What key advice do you have for young people seeking to build a career path?
Just do it! Seems cliche, but just go ahead. Try your luck and anticipate failure because you will probably fail more than win. Be decent to people and always network. People propel you more in your career than your talent.