What playing Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti means – Kehinde Bankole

Bankole, who recently delivered a critically acclaimed performance as the legendary activist Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, emphasizes the enduring power of collective action and the power of women united.

“Playing Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was a powerful experience, not just for portraying an incredible woman, but for witnessing the strength that comes from women uniting. Funmilayo understood this deeply. Through the  Abeokuta Women’s Union (AWU), she built a force for change, a testament to the power of collective action.

The road to complete female unity might be long, but ‘Funmilayo and Her Women’ reminds us of the incredible progress possible when women stand together as one regardless of age,  differences, pedigree or social standing. Imagine the world we could create if we truly amplified each other’s voices, shared resources, and fought for equality as one. That’s a future worth striving for, and Funmilayo’s legacy serves as a powerful reminder and motivator to keep moving forward towards that,” she said.

Asked about her experience acting alongside other talented actresses like Joke Silva, Bankole said:” It was remarkable playing Funmilayo Ransome Kuti alongside an icon such as Aunty Joke Silva. I have always admired her.  Also acting alongside the talented Aunty Bukky Ogunote, Oluwayemisi Esther, Omowunmi Dada, Bikiya G Douglas, Yewande Osamehin, Adunni Ade, Folake Coker, Tracey George, Iyinide Ayo Olumoko and the other massively talented ladies and women from the community was truly an amazing experience for me. Women are one of the true pillars of the film especially since it was Directed also by a woman Bolanle Austen- Peters made it all the more an extraordinary experience that underscores the immense power of women collaborating. Working together on this project has reminded me of the boundless potential we possess when we unite our talents and voices. Funmilayo’s leadership in the Abeokuta Women’s Union has been a profound inspiration, Her legacy adds to fuel my passion to continue advocating for positive change in our country and amplifying the strength found in our unity”.