When Blessing Abeng, my friend and catalyst, arranged a photography session with Kunle Idowu, aka Frank Donga, she knew we had much in common and plenty to discuss. Kunle, a beautiful creative soul, has so much in his heart and mind to share. I was amazed to learn how he created the iconic character Frank Donga, blending humour with social commentary in a way that resonates deeply with many. Our session was a blend of vibing and deep conversation, touching on everything from politics to faith and storytelling.
At the start, Kunle seemed weighed down, but as we chatted and laughed, he gradually stripped off layers, both literally and metaphorically, ending the shoot uplifted and lighter.
Here are five things I learned from speaking with him:
- He speaks English, French and Hausa with such amazing fluency that any of these would make you confused about where he truly is from.
- Frank Donga was created to speak to and solve the problem found in different types of interviews rooms
- Creativity thrives in open-mindedness. He is such a beautiful thinker and would always ask questions
- Kunle is a walking repository of possible scripts and shows. From the way he shared some stories with me I learned that authenticity is a powerful tool in storytelling.
- Laughter is a universal language and can be such a great way to educate people.
- Art reflects one’s true self. Each of the stories he develops is birth out of an experience he has had or a lesson he wants to teach.
