Joke Silva

Joke Silva MFR: Nigerian Actress, Director, and Businesswoman Joke Silva, formally known as Joke Silva Jacobs, is a prominent Nigerian actress, director, and businesswoman. Recognized as one of the most influential figures in the Nigerian film industry (Nollywood), her career spans over three decades, marked by both artistic and entrepreneurial success. She is a recipient of one of Nigeria’s National Honours, Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Early Life and Education Joke Silva was born in Lagos, Lagos State, Nigeria, in 1961, into a Saro/Amaro family of four children. Her family was notable in Colonial Nigeria; her father, Chief Emmanuel Afolabi Silva, was a lawyer, and her mother, Adebimbola Silva, was a pioneering doctor. Silva attended Holy Child College in Lagos for her secondary education. Although her parents were initially opposed to her pursuing acting, they eventually supported her career choice. Silva went on to study English at the University of Lagos. She further pursued professional training at the prestigious Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in London, an experience that honed her craft before her major breakthrough in Nollywood. Career Progression Silva began her professional career in film in the early 1990s. Her notable works during this period include roles in films such as *Violated* (1995) and *Silent Night* (1996). She gained international recognition in 1998, starring opposite Colin Firth and Nia Long in the British-Canadian film *The Secret Laughter of Women*. Throughout the 2000s, Silva solidified her reputation with roles in pictures like *Keeping Faith: Is That Love?* (2002), *A Husband's Wife* (2003), and *Women's Cot* (2005). Beyond acting, Silva co-produced and starred in *The Kingmaker* (2002) with her husband, actor Olu Jacobs. Major Achievements and Notable Works Joke Silva has received numerous accolades for her contributions to cinema. She is a two-time winner of the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role, securing the award in 2006 and again in 2008. In addition to her acting career, Silva is a successful businesswoman and director. She co-founded the Lufodo Academy of Performing Arts with her husband, which serves to mentor and train young talent in Nollywood. She has also served as the pioneer managing director of Malete Film Village, in association with Kwara State University. In 2014, she received national recognition when she was honored as a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). Current Status Joke Silva remains active in the entertainment and educational sectors. She continues to be a respected figure in Nollywood and serves as a mentor through the Lufodo Academy. Her commitment extends to humanitarian causes; she previously served a three-year term as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, working on the "I Am Priceless" campaign against human trafficking.