We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lydia Eku. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lydia below.
Lydia, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
Honestly, through tests and trials! Growing up I had aspirations and goals, but was fearful to go after some of them. I had peers around me who were flourishing within their paths, and would often want the same for myself, but didn’t have the full motivation to make it happen.
After much self-reflection, meditation practice and prayer I realized what all I wanted was not going to sprout up out of nowhere. There’s a scripture that says, “faith without work is dead.” That was my deal. I had no true faith within myself to believe what I wanted was possible. I know now that it is.
I couldn’t worry about what someone else had going on. Where someone else’s career was. What someone else had or dreamed. In hindsight I had to become selfish and focus on me first. I had to believe that my looks were enough. That my voice was enough. My personality and flaws were enough.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m an artist in the medium of theater, as well as film and television. I’ve spent a great deal of my career in musical theater. I’m currently on tour with JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR as one of the Soul Singers, and also a part of the ensemble!”
Before getting into theatre professionally, I studied sports broadcasting/journalism in college. Besides music and the arts, sports is a big part of my life. I played sports as a kid, but I love watching and analyzing it more. I thought for sure my dream of being an ESPN anchor was in the cards. I still had my other dream of performing, but was often afraid to really pursue it. I didn’t have the training from a performing arts schools or program. I had only sung in church, and school talent shows. My confidence in performing was strong enough to get me to the top, but my motivation was sometimes off.
In order to be serious, and fully commit I made theatre my major, and broadcasting my minor during my junior year. I was beyond nervous about this change, but my life depended on it. Almost 10 years later, and I haven’t looked back. After multiple cruise ship contracts, regional theatre productions, and film credits I’m beyond proud of where I am today.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Always be ready to show up. Study everyday about your craft. Confidence is built, not made.
These three things I have learned along the way and continue to live by. My advice is to follow these tips and understand that your journey will be different from others. It’s alright to stumble, as long as you get back up and keep at it!
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing has been their support for my artistry. Throughout my career they have shown up for shows and shared anything I’ve created! They’ve truly been there for it all, and I’m so appreciative.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @iam_lydiaeku
- Twitter: iamlydiaeku
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lydiaekurwtv
