JOAN IYIOLA – Writer, Actress and Producer.

Actress, Writer & Producer ‘Joan Iyiola’ is co-founder of Apatan Productions, a London based Film and TV production company. Joan co-wrote, co-produced and is featured in DỌLÁPỌ̀ IS FINE. The film was delivered in Jan 2020 and premiered at the American Black Film Festival where it won the 2020 HBO Short Film Competition.

Joan was recently named as one of Digital Spy’s 30 Black British Stars of Tomorrow, and was recently selected for 2021 BFI Network x BAFTA Crew.

We have a quick chat with Joan, as she takes time out for us from her busy schedule …

“I would describe ‘DỌLÁPỌ IS FINE’ as a coming-of-age story centering on a young black woman’s experience – how her relationship to her hair and name helps her understand who she really is. “

Hey hey hey .. Tell us about your day today?
My day was wonderful thank you – restful and nurturing with the family.

How would you describe your job?
I would describe my job as a rollercoaster! But a really fun one!

What do you prefer writing, acting or producing?
I am still relatively new to writing and producing, and I am really loving the journey. My first love is acting, so this will always be dear to my heart. I feel like each role allows me to show my artistry in a different way.

How would you describe your new film “DỌLÁPỌ IS FINE”
I would describe it as a coming-of-age story centering on a young black woman’s experience – and how her relationship to her hair and name helps her understand who she really is.

What’s your definition of empowerment?
Giving yourself the permission ‘To be”

“My dream is to help contribute to a shift in narrative for the stories that we tell, so that more young girls see themselves reflected positively. “

If you could teach kids one thing what would it be?
To love. Love deeply.

What do you think is the power of creativity?
It can help make the impossible possible.

What’s your dream?
To help contribute to a shift in narrative for the stories that we tell, so that more young girls see themselves reflected positively.

To create understanding and unity is a big goal of ours.. how would you suggest we try that?
By listening! Listening to the world around you, will help you to develop…

What keeps you positive?
Jokes. I love laughing, so a good joke does just that! Laughter is what keeps me positive.

“If I could teach kids one thing, it would be… To love. Love deeply.”

“DỌLÁPỌ IS FINE” TRAILER

How can we learn from each other?
When we offer love in our moments of connection, we find that there are things that everyone can help us learn.

What’s your hope for 2021?
To see my family and friends that I have missed so much, and to continue learning.

Do you have any questions for HEY GIRL?
No, but thank you for a lovely interview!

A big thanks to Joan for her interview…

go check out “DỌLÁPỌ IS FINE” available on Netflix UK.

To follow Joan on insta go to: https://www.instagram.com/joan.iyiola/.  

HG xx