Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner, Opeyemi Ayanwale, popularly known as Imisi, has revealed that celebrated filmmaker and actress Funke Akindele is her greatest inspiration in Nollywood, describing her as “my number one mentor.”
The 23-year-old reality star shared this during a press briefing in Lagos on Tuesday, shortly after receiving her ₦150 million grand prize — including ₦80 million in cash and a brand-new SUV — from organisers of the “Ten Over Ten” edition.
Speaking passionately about her post-BBNaija plans, Imisi said her experience in the Big Brother house reignited her love for acting and storytelling. “I think people saw a lot of my acting side while I was in the house. Even my fellow housemates said I’m a natural actress,” she said. “Funke Akindele is my number one mentor. I really hope to work with her one day. I also admire Bimbo Ademoye and Bolaji Ogunmola — they inspire me a lot.”
Imisi described her victory as “overwhelming,” saying she’s still adjusting to the fame and outpouring of support from fans across Nigeria. “The love has been massive. I’m still trying to process everything,” she admitted.
Addressing claims that her win was influenced by ethnic support, the Oyo-born star said, “Maybe. Yoruba people are very supportive of their own, so that might’ve played a role. But honestly, I believe people connected with my realness and vulnerability.”
She also expressed deep gratitude to her Celestial Church community for their prayers and encouragement during the competition, adding that she intends to use her platform to build a long-lasting career in entertainment. “Fame is new to me, but I’m ready to learn and grow. I’ll seek mentorship and be intentional about my next steps,” she said.
Imisi’s humility, charisma, and talent have already made her one of the most talked-about winners in BBNaija history, with fans eagerly anticipating her first major Nollywood project.
