I didn’t chase after payments, I focused on building my career

Ghanaian actor and film producer Kwadwo Nkansah, popularly known as Lilwin, recently shared a candid account of his early days in the entertainment industry and the hurdles he faced on his path to success.

Appearing on Lawson TV, Lilwin opened up about his experiences, offering insight into the personal and professional challenges that shaped his career.

Lilwin began his journey in the film industry with a deep passion for acting, but the road wasn’t always smooth.

He recalled the early days when many of his colleagues held negative attitudes towards him. Rather than retaliate or seek conflict, Lilwin chose to focus on his craft and rise above the criticism.

He explained, “At the beginning, some of my peers didn’t believe in me. But I never responded to their negativity. I focused on proving myself through hard work and dedication.”

Despite the initial rejection, Lilwin persevered, and his career eventually gained momentum. What sets him apart in the industry is not just his acting skills, but his generosity and willingness to give back.

Lilwin disclosed that he had cast many of these same colleagues—who once doubted him—into roles in his own films.

He made sure to compensate them generously, even though, during the early stages of his career, he was often working without receiving payment for many of his own acting roles.

“There were times I worked on films and didn’t get paid,” Lilwin said. “But I wasn’t focused on the money. I was more concerned with growing my career, so I didn’t chase after payments owed to me. I knew that eventually, the right opportunities would come.”

In addition to his acting career, Lilwin has transitioned into film production, using his success to uplift others in the industry.

He revealed that he has opened his production house to fellow filmmakers, allowing them to use his resources even without immediate payment.

“I often let filmmakers use my production house to create their films, and I let them sell their projects first to repay me later,” Lilwin explained. “It’s not about getting paid upfront. It’s about helping others to succeed, just as I did.”