Nollywood actress, Stephanie Okereke-Linus is currently shooting a new movie titled DRY, in different parts of the country.
She says the movie focuses on Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) and journeys into the heart-wrenching details of a culture not too many films dare to explore.
“This is a cause I am very passionate about. I have been to the North and to other parts of the country, and I have seen first-hand how this health issue defies normal living for girls and women of different ages. I have decided to share their stories through “DRY”.
The actress, who placed second position in the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria competition in 2002, admits that though the issue might seem controversial, the movie would have served its purpose if it succeeds in setting one girl free and opens the minds of the people.
Shedding light on the condition, she says, “VVF causes leakage of urine and faeces through the vagina. Girls as young as 11-15 years suffer this ailment when they are forced into early marriages to older men, and due to their small pelvic sizes, they experience obstructive labour which can provoke a cut (mostly done by unprofessional medical aides) wherein the baby can come through. I am excited about what we can achieve if VVF is taking more seriously. With our scripts and cameras, we shall tell the story of those whose voices are small… and lips too tired to speak.”
In the same vein, an excited Stephanie is continuing in her ambitious pursuits as she launches her latest effort -a personal blog site called “Stephanie Daily”!
Stephanie, who tied the knots with Linus Idahosa in Paris, France, in April this year, describes it as a blend of fashion, beauty, inspiration, gist, give-aways for fans and loads of great pictures.
“It’s my own personal space for me to interact with the wonderful fans I have been blessed with. It’s called Stephanie Daily for a reason – that means, everyday there’s something new to talk about. So now there’s an actual platform that draws me closer to the people who believe in what I do.”
Features on the blog include, Inspire and Steph Lounge two channels on the site aimed at boosting spirits and keeping abreast on the actor and all that she finds fabulous!
“I also the interactive channel, “Talk to Steph” that gives visitors the opportunity to help another human being solve the daily challenges s/he faces. Stephanie Daily aims to be genuine, smart, witty, fun, colourful, and humane. So whether you are feisty, cool, outgoing or simple, the blog will appeal to you,” she quips.
-PM