In a recent interview, Ghanaian actress Fella Makafui shared her experience of learning Yoruba for her role as Abena in the movie series Aníkúlápó: The Ghoul Awakens. She described the process as both intense and rewarding, emphasizing that prior to this role, she had never spoken Yoruba. To overcome this hurdle, she hired a language coach and dedicated two weeks to intensive training, with continued learning throughout the filming process. This rigorous preparation not only enabled her to speak the language but also enriched her performance by fostering a deeper emotional connection to her character.

Makafui reflected on how mastering Yoruba transformed her performance, asserting that it made her more intentional with her delivery and emotional timing. Initially, she found it intimidating to learn a new language while performing, but as she gained confidence, the language became a bridge rather than a barrier. This shift allowed her to connect more authentically with the narrative and the Yoruba cultural elements depicted in the series, which enhanced her acting skills and overall portrayal of the character.

Moreover, Makafui's experience underscores the importance of cultural immersion in acting. By stepping into the Yoruba cultural world and embracing the challenges that come with learning its language, she not only broadened her own skillset but also contributed to a more truthful representation of the culture within the film. Her dedication highlights a growing trend among actors to delve deeper into their roles, making performances more relatable and sincere for audiences.