We were lucky to catch up with Robert Ifedi recently and have shared our conversation below.
Robert, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.
After years stuck in the corporate world, I knew that there is more to life than just the 9-to-5 grind. Losing my father to cancer before he could retire and enjoy the house he built in Nigeria made me realize that life is too short to not pursue my dreams. His passing served as a poignant reminder that tomorrow is never guaranteed. It was during this reflection that I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to my creative passions.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Robert Ifedi, and I am a multifaceted creative professional with a deep passion for storytelling and artistic expression. My journey into the entertainment industry has been a dynamic one, shaped by my diverse experiences and unwavering commitment to my craft.
It all began with a spark of curiosity and a relentless drive to explore the realms of creativity. I initially entered the industry as an artist manager, where I honed my skills in guiding and nurturing talent. From there, I transitioned into the world of music as a DJ and music producer under the moniker, ‘Sir Robert Fre$h’, immersing myself in the vibrant tapestry of sound and rhythm. Through my work in the recording studio and as a record label owner, ‘Rare Heir Inc.’, I’ve had the privilege of shaping the sonic landscapes of numerous projects and artists.
But my journey didn’t stop there. Driven by a desire to explore new avenues of expression, I ventured into the realm of acting and television/film production through my production company Hold One Entertainment Inc that I cofounded with the multidisciplinary talent Samora Smallwood. This transition allowed me to channel my passion for storytelling into visual narratives, bringing characters and stories to life on screen. From captivating performances to behind-the-scenes production, I’ve had the opportunity to play a role in crafting compelling cinematic experiences.
In addition to my work in acting and production, I’m also deeply passionate about photography. Through my lens (Robert O Photography aka RobertOshoots), I strive to capture the essence of humanity, exploring themes of identity, culture, and emotion. Each photograph is a window into a world of stories waiting to be told, a testament to the power of visual storytelling.
At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to excellence and innovation. Whether I’m producing music, capturing moments through photography, or bringing characters to life on screen, I always strive to push the boundaries of creativity and imagination. I’m not just providing a service; I’m creating experiences that resonate deeply with audiences and clients alike.
What sets me apart from others in the industry is my relentless passion and dedication to my craft. I approach each project with a sense of purpose and authenticity, infusing my work with a unique perspective and artistic vision. Whether I’m collaborating with fellow creatives or working solo, I bring a level of creativity and professionalism that sets me apart from the crowd.
One of the achievements I am most proud of is my ability to wear multiple hats within the entertainment industry. From actor to producer, DJ to photographer, I’ve cultivated a diverse skill set that allows me to thrive in any creative endeavor. This versatility not only sets me apart but also enables me to approach each project with a holistic understanding of the artistic process.
Ultimately, what I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know about me and my brand is that I am deeply passionate about what I do. I pour my heart and soul into every project, striving to create work that is both meaningful and impactful. Whether you’re looking for captivating performances, stunning photography, or innovative music production, I’m here to bring your vision to life. Together, let’s embark on a journey of creativity, collaboration, and artistic exploration.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
Resilience is a quality that has been deeply ingrained in my journey as a creative professional. One particular story stands out, illustrating the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Early in my career, I encountered a series of setbacks that tested my resolve and determination. Such as, falling out with business and creative partners, failed business attempts, and releasing music that fell on deaf ears to name a few. Despite facing rejection, loss and disappointment, I refused to let these challenges deter me from pursuing my passion. Instead, I channeled my setbacks into fuel for growth and transformation.
One defining moment came when I auditioned for a role (starring alongside an Oscar winner) that I thought would be my “Big Break” that would turn me into a major player as an Actor. I had poured my heart and soul into preparing for. After what seemed like an eternity of waiting, I received the news that I booked the role! To make a long story short they ended up cutting out most of my scenes and close-ups. In that moment, I felt a wave of disappointment wash over me. But rather than succumbing to defeat, I used it as an opportunity to reevaluate my approach and strengthen my skills.
I threw myself into intensive training, pushing myself to new heights and honing my craft with unwavering determination as well as setting up my Production company so I can be in more control of my destiny. And eventually, my persistence paid off. I landed roles that exceeded my wildest dreams, proving that resilience truly is the key to success in the entertainment industry. This experience taught me the invaluable lesson that setbacks are not roadblocks but rather stepping stones on the path to greatness. It’s a lesson that continues to shape my journey, reminding me that with resilience and determination, anything is possible.
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
In the midst of my journey, amidst the pursuit of external validation and the constant clamor for accolades, I stumbled upon a profound truth: everything is a lie. Growing up, I was indoctrinated into a belief system that equated success with external recognition, with awards, and with the applause of others. But as I delved deeper into the throes of the entertainment industry, I began to see through the facade.
I realized that the pursuit of validation from others was a never-ending cycle, a fleeting mirage that left me perpetually unsatisfied. No matter how many roles I landed or accolades I amassed, the void within me remained unfilled. It was a sobering revelation, a moment of clarity amidst the noise and chaos of the industry.
It was in this realization that I began to unlearn the damaging beliefs that had been ingrained within me since childhood. I came to understand that true success, true fulfillment, could only be found within oneself. It wasn’t about the applause of others or the validation of industry professionals; it was about following my heart, pursuing my passions, and staying true to myself.
With this newfound understanding, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance. I let go of the need for external validation and embraced the intrinsic value of my work. I found liberation in authenticity, in the simple act of being true to who I am and what I love.
Today, as I navigate the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry, I do so with a renewed sense of purpose and conviction. I no longer measure my worth by the standards of others; instead, I find fulfillment in the joy of creation, in the pursuit of my passions, and in the knowledge that true success lies not in the applause of the crowd, but in the quiet satisfaction of knowing that I am living my truth.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.robertoshoots.com
- Instagram: @sirrobertfresh @robertoshoots @the.rareheir
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/robertifedi
- Twitter: @sirrobertfresh
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCrwZbtHMiAxzf8n6_PU7hGA
- Other: imdb.me/RobertIfedi
Image Credits
Robert Okine