Kiekie, renowned skit maker and actress whose real name is Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, recently shared her experience of quitting a job due to her employer’s offensive comment regarding her “pretty privilege.”
In an exclusive interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, Kiekie recounted the incident that led to her resignation.
According to Kiekie, she had requested a salary increase from her former employer. However, she was taken aback when her boss suggested that she shouldn’t worry about low pay because of her physical attractiveness.
He went on to claim that being a “pretty lady” would attract wealthy men who would readily provide her with financial support.
The concept of “pretty privilege” has gained traction in contemporary society, referring to situations where individuals benefit or are expected to succeed in their careers due to their physical attractiveness.
This raises important questions about the extent to which a person’s success can be attributed to factors beyond their appearance, such as hard work and talent.
Kiekie expressed her concern about her employer’s lack of appreciation for her contributions to the company beyond her looks.
“I once had a boss whom I complained to about my insufficient salary and asked for a raise,” the actress revealed. “Instead of understanding my point, he dismissed my concerns and emphasized that my attractiveness would guarantee financial support from wealthy men.
“This incident prompted me to resign because it indicated a lack of value for both my work and the organization as a whole.”
The 32-year-old actress also addressed the criticism she faces for being born into a privileged family. While acknowledging her comfortable background, Kiekie emphasized that it did not diminish her ambition and drive to fulfill her personal vision and destiny.
“I may have come from a privileged background, but that doesn’t change the fact that I have my own identity,” Kiekie asserted.
“I have a vision, a path, and a destiny that I am determined to pursue. If I hadn’t embarked on my journey in 2017 and 2018, I would probably still be relying on my father whenever I wanted to travel.”
She also pointed out that there are limits to what her parents can do for her. Despite her family’s support, she acknowledged that her success as an actress and content creator stems from her own efforts and talent.
Kiekie urged Nigerians to move away from the tendency to judge and hate others based on their backgrounds and instead focus on encouraging personal growth and self-reliance.
“As a society, we need to improve,” Kiekie concluded. “My father isn’t the one helping me with my presentations, writing scripts, or creating content. It’s essential that we recognize and appreciate the hard work and abilities of individuals rather than relying solely on preconceived notions based on their family backgrounds.”
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