Lupita Nyong'o Reclaims Her Identity and Accent

Lupita Nyong'o, a celebrated actress known for her remarkable performances in films like '12 Years a Slave' and 'Black Panther', has recently shared a deeply personal journey about reclaiming her identity. In the inaugural episode of her podcast, 'Mind Your Own', she opened up about the significance of her Kenyan accent and the emotional journey that led her back to it.

Born in Mexico and raised in Kenya, Lupita has spent the last twenty years living in the United States. During her time at the Yale School of Drama, she felt the pressure to adopt an American accent, believing it would enhance her chances of landing acting roles. She explained, "I made this pact with myself that I would learn how to sound American in a way that would guarantee me a career in acting because obviously I didn't know very many people in movies and television with Kenyan accents. There was just no market for that." This decision, while practical, came at a cost to her sense of self.

As she honed her American accent through numerous voice lessons, Lupita experienced a bittersweet victory. A casting director praised her new way of speaking, which brought her joy, but it also left her feeling incomplete. She reflected, "And I was at once so elated and also so crushed. I had rid myself of myself, kind of." This poignant statement highlights the internal conflict many individuals face when trying to fit into a mold that society often dictates.

In a moment of clarity, Lupita decided to embrace her roots once again. Before promoting her breakout film, '12 Years a Slave', in 2013, she informed her publicist of her choice to return to her original accent. She stated, "I've decided that from tomorrow I am going to return to my original accent. I want to send a message that being African is enough." This declaration not only marked a turning point in her career but also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity.

Lupita's mother played a crucial role in supporting her decision, offering words of comfort by saying, "Your accent is representative of your life experience." This affirmation provided Lupita with the solace she needed to embrace her true self. It is a testament to the idea that our backgrounds and experiences shape who we are, and there is strength in celebrating that uniqueness.

In a world that often pressures individuals to conform, Lupita Nyong'o's journey serves as an inspiring reminder to embrace one's identity. Her story encourages us to reflect on our own experiences and the importance of staying true to ourselves. By reclaiming her accent, Lupita not only honors her heritage but also sends a powerful message to others: being authentic is not just enough; it is essential.