Bukky Wright, a renowned Nigerian actress, recently shed light on her decision to step away from the acting industry in the United States. Her departure was primarily influenced by personal commitments and a desire for professional growth beyond the entertainment sector.
Wright emphasized the importance of her role as a mother in her decision to pause her acting career. She stated, “At the time that I left, I had to leave because my children needed me more. I’m a mother and I would always say that I live for my children. My children needed me and I had to be at their beck and call.”
This sentiment underscores the challenges many professionals face in balancing demanding careers with family responsibilities. Wright’s choice reflects a prioritization of her children’s needs during a critical period in their live.
During her hiatus from acting, Wright seized the opportunity to further her education and explore a new career path. She enrolled in academic programs in the United States, ultimately becoming a certified cybersecurity analyst. Reflecting on this transition, she remarked, “I just felt like doing something else for myself. I decided to go back to school and, you know, put my hands into something else. I’m happy I did. Now, I can boast that I’m a cybersecurity analyst. I’m certified in information security in the US.”
This move not only signifies Wright’s commitment to personal development but also highlights her willingness to step outside her comfort zone. She added, “It felt good to at least try something out and go out of my comfort zone. I’ve always been somebody who would always go out of her comfort zone. I don’t believe in impossibilities.”
After dedicating time to her family and personal growth, Wright felt a renewed calling to the Nigerian film industry, commonly known as Nollywood. Encouragement from her fans and family played a significant role in this decision. She shared, “I feel there’s still something in me to give to the entertainment industry in Nigeria. It actually hits to the core of my fans anytime I post anything on Instagram, they’ll be like, ‘You need to come back.’ My sons also kept encouraging me, they said, ‘It’s time you go back again and do something in the movie industry in Nigeria.'”
Wright’s return is marked by her involvement in new projects, including “Red Circle,” directed by Nora Awolowo. Expressing her enthusiasm, she said, “It feels really good and I’m so happy about the warm welcome from everybody. I’m happy to be back. Did I miss the industry? Yes, I did.”
Wright’s journey underscores the multifaceted nature of personal and professional life. Her ability to transition between roles—mother, student, cybersecurity analyst, and actress—demonstrates resilience and adaptability. She advised her mentees, “The fact that I had to deviate totally from entertainment to tech was something many people thought I would not be able to do. I would tell all my mentees that if I can do it, they can do it too.”
Bukky Wright’s decision to step away from the U.S. acting industry was deeply rooted in her commitment to family and personal development. Her journey serves as an inspiring example of how individuals can successfully navigate life’s various phases, embracing change and pursuing growth while staying true to their passions.