The Jenifa Foundation, founded in 2024, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating positive impact and transforming lives. Our mission is to empower and uplift vulnerable populations, including small and medium-sized businesses, the less privileged, and the elderly, by providing support and resources to help them thrive.
Founder
Olufunke Ayotunde Akindele, born on August 24, 1977, in Ikorodu, Nigeria, is a prominent figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry known for her versatility as an actress, producer, and director. She began her academic journey with an OND in Mass Communication from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta, followed by a Law degree from the University of Lagos. Her early education took place at Grace Children School Gbagada Lagos and Model College Igbokuta Ikorodu.
Funke Akindele’s passion for acting ignited during her childhood but gained traction in the movie “NAKED WIRE,” where she played a waitress. She continued to rise through roles like Bisi in the TV series “I Need to Know.” Her breakthrough came with the movie “JENIFA,” which not only garnered widespread acclaim but also significantly expanded her fan base and industry recognition.
As a creative force, Akindele has produced numerous films including “OJO KETALA,” “ETA INU,” “MAKU,” and “OMO GHETTO,” which became a record-breaking success at the Nigerian box office. Her ongoing project, “JENIFA’S DIARY,” has become a beloved series known for its humor and social impact.
Akindele’s career spans across various genres and roles in notable films such as “CHIEF DADDY,” “THE WEDDING PARTY,” “A TRIP TO JAMAICA,” and “FAR FROM HOME.” She is celebrated for her skills both in front of and behind the camera, having directed “HER EXCELLENCY” and produced blockbuster hits like “OMOGHETTO THE SAGA” (2020; N636M), “THE BATTLE ON BUKA STREET,” (2022; N668M) and “A TRIBE CALLED JUDAH.” (2023; N1.4B) which are the top three highest grossing movies at the box office in the history of Nigeria.
Her talent has earned her numerous awards, including six Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCA), notably for Best Actress in a Comedy. She has also been recognized at the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), Future Awards, and ELOY Awards, among others.
Beyond her entertainment career, Akindele is a philanthropist who founded ‘The Jenifa Foundation’ (TJF) to support aspiring actors, actresses, the distressed and less privileged. She has also secured endorsements from major brands like GLOBACOM, OMO, DETTOL, KELLOGS, WAW and GAC, thereby solidifying her status as one of Nigeria’s most sought-after actresses.
She’s also the founder of FAAN school of drama which has graduated several students from its inception. She has served as a mentor, guide, teacher, and pathfinder for many citizens both home and abroad. Many have entered the movie industry and have become a success under her watch and supervision.
Funke Akindele’s charisma, dedication to her craft, and contributions to Nigerian cinema have made her a role model and a significant influencer in the industry, inspiring many with her journey from aspiring actress to a powerhouse of Nigerian entertainment.