Yvonne Jegede Marks 20 Years in Nollywood, Unveils New Foundation and Investment Company

Nollywood star Yvonne Jegede is set to celebrate a major career milestone as she marks 20 years in the film industry, two decades she describes as a journey filled with gratitude, growth, and reinvention.

Reflecting on the anniversary, the actress said she feels deeply fulfilled.
“Some of the people who started this journey with me are no longer here, so I’m grateful for the grace that has kept me relevant,” she said in an interview. “What I feel is gratitude and love.”

Jegede, who joined Nollywood at a young age, said her biggest evolution has been discovering her ability to “shed off” and grow through different phases of life and career.
“There are so many layers to me,” she noted. “And with each layer, I get better.”

For her, the 20-year mark is more than a celebration, it is a rebirth.
“The last 20 years were years of self-discovery. Now, I’ve identified many potentials within me that I’m ready to explore,” she said. “Every rebirth comes with new vision and renewed energy.”

As part of the milestone, Jegede will unveil two new ventures: her personal foundation and an investment company. Both, she says, are inspired by her mission to help creatives build sustainable futures.

“My mission is to ensure that actors and creatives learn to invest in their future,” she explained. “We need to end the pattern of celebrities enjoying fame only to later struggle with poverty or call for public help during emergencies.”

Jegede revealed that philanthropy has always been a quiet but significant part of her life. She currently supports 18 adopted children, funding their education while respecting their privacy.
“I get emotional when they call me ‘mummy.’ I’m so proud of them,” she said.

The actress also supports single parents and plans to formalise her charity work to reach even more people. With the help of a structured team, her foundation aims to:

• Provide education for 5,000 children within five years

• Empower 100 single parents with small businesses within two years

Beyond that, Jegede is preparing to launch community sensitisation campaigns on sickle cell anemia, a cause she believes requires continuous public education.

As she steps into her third decade in Nollywood, Yvonne Jegede says her new journey is driven by purpose, passion, and a commitment to transforming lives.