Motherhood no threat to showbiz career –Kisa Gbekle

GHANAIAN actress and producer Kisa Gbekle challenges the idea that motherhood hinders success in the entertainment industry.

After taking time off to care for her son, Enam, who is almost five years old, she says her experience has confirmed that with careful planning and intention, both worlds can coexist.

In an interview on Monday, December 1, Kisa shared her experience of balancing motherhood and her career, emphasising that it was possible to excel in both roles with the right mindset and support system.

The producer of Thank God It’s Friday stated that the belief that women must choose between motherhood and their careers was outdated and unhelpful.

She advocates flexibility and understanding within the industry, enabling women to balance personal and professional responsibilities.

“Motherhood is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I wanted to be fully present for my child during the early stages, but that didn’t mean I had to give up my showbiz career. I simply chose to prioritise bonding and the routines that matter in a baby’s first months.

“My work schedule is demanding as an actress, but with proper planning, I can balance my life. Once you plan well and have the right people around you, you don’t need to sacrifice your career,” she said.

Interestingly, Kisa Gbekle has been absent from the silver screen for three years, partly because she had to look after her son.

“I understand that my current position on motherhood and career might seem opposite to my decision to stay off the screens to care for my baby. That decision was personal and not because I couldn’t juggle both.

“I could make the time if I wanted to. I say this because I don’t want my female colleagues to give up their careers for motherhood. There are many successful examples, such as  Nigerian actress Omotola, who should inspire us.

“She is a wife, mother of four and still has a thriving acting career, so what is my excuse as a single mother of one?” she asked.

Kisa told Graphic Showbiz that her break from showbiz was productive, during which she explored other ventures, including a fishing business in Togo. She is now back and ready to take on new challenges, with several projects in the pipeline.

“I’m returning stronger and more motivated than ever. I want to inspire other women to realise that motherhood is not a limitation but a new chapter in life. You can do both, and you can excel in both,” she said.

Kisa Gbekle has appeared in films such as Accra Runs, Accra Hustlers, 8 PM and Stand By Me, as well as the TV series The Miser.