Dynamic Nigerian-American reality TV Personality, International Model, and Actress, Tolú Ekundare first captivated audiences as a standout contestant on Netflix’s ‘The Trust: A Game of Greed,’ where her strategic gameplay made headlines.
Having made a splash on ‘The Trust: A Game of Greed’ with her bold strategies, I ask her to let us in on the preparation that went into the high-stakes game and any behind-the-scenes stories. “I walked into The Trust completely blind—unaware of the game’s concept, who I’d be playing with, or how to win. I didn’t even know it would be on Netflix! Everything hit me at that cliff in the first scene, and I realized I had to do whatever it took to succeed and walk away with as much money as possible. It required making tough, bold moves, but each decision ultimately shaped the outcome I needed. It was a high-stakes experience, and I’m proud of how I navigated it.”
Tolú continued to make her mark on reality TV by starring in Netflix’s crossover hit “Perfect Match,” where her confidence and charisma earned her the nickname “Main Character Energy.” Beyond television, she has appeared in music videos for notable artists like Monaleo and Fridayyy.
Glamour: Perfect Match was a huge hit, and you were a fan favorite. What would you say this speaks to?
Tolú: It shows the power of being unapologetically yourself. People are drawn to authenticity and I’ve always stayed true to who I am, while showcasing my culture and values. Confidence and compassion resonate deeply, especially in TV; a world where authenticity can sometimes feel rare.
Glamour: Your Instagram and TikTok are full of fabulous fashion and travel moments. What’s one travel destination that’s a must-see according to your style, and how does it inspire your fashion choices?
Tolú: One travel destination that’s a must-see for me is Nigeria of course, especially with it’s incredible natural wonders. Places like the breathtaking Gurara Falls, the rolling hills of Idanre, and the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove are all filled with beauty and rich history. The vibrant landscapes inspire my fashion choices, from earthy tones to bold colors. Nigeria’s beauty deeply influences how I incorporate nature’s richness into my style.
Glamour: You juggle roles as a reality TV star, model, and actress. How do you keep your energy up and manage to shine in all these different roles? Any secret routines or favorite self-care tips?
Tolú: I stay energized by sticking to a consistent self-care routine. Daily self-affirmations allow me to remind myself of my worth and strengths, helping me start the day feeling like the powerful baddie that I am. I also make time for skincare, prayer, and exercise—they help me recharge physically, mentally and spiritually, so I can bring my best to everything I do.
Glamour: You’ve got a fantastic blend of Nigerian heritage and American culture. How do you incorporate your “Naija pride” into your daily life and public persona? Any favorite family traditions or cultural celebrations you love to share?
Tolú: Incorporating my Naija pride into my daily life feels effortless because it’s such an innate part of who I am. I celebrate my heritage through fashion, food, and the stories I share, blending Nigerian and American cultures seamlessly.
One of my favorite family traditions is that every year my parents and I stay up until midnight on each other’s birthdays to pray into the new age and be the first ones to wish each other happy birthday. It’s a special moment that brings us closer every year.
Glamour: You’ve worked with some amazing artists in music videos. If you could star in a music video for any artist, who would it be and why?
Tolú: Definitely Burna Boy or Tems! Burna Boy’s Afro-fusion sound and powerful visuals would be incredible to be part of, especially with how he showcases African culture. Tems has such a soulful, ethereal vibe, and starring in one of her music videos would be a beautiful and artistic experience. Both artists celebrate our culture in a way that truly resonates with me.
Glamour: Between Houston, Los Angeles, and your Nigerian roots, you have a rich cultural mix. How do you find inspiration from each place, and what’s something unique about each city that influences your work?
Tolú: Houston brings a warmth and slower pace that helps me recharge and stay grounded, while Los Angeles fuels my creativity with its fast-paced energy. My Nigerian roots instill a strong work ethic and pride in my culture, influencing everything I do. Each place offers unique inspiration, shaping my approach to work and expression.
Glamour: Your social media content is vibrant and engaging. What's your approach to content creation, and what’s the most unexpected or fun response you’ve received from your followers?
Tolú: My approach to content creation is all about bringing people along for the ride, making them feel like they're right there with me. I focus on authenticity and vibrancy, showcasing my personality and culture through captivating visuals and relatable stories. I want my followers to experience the vibe and energy I’m feeling in real time.
One of the most fun responses came when I posted a photo with a new hairstyle. My followers flooded the post with over 1000 comments of creative names for my new alter ego! It was a joyful surprise to see their enthusiasm and feel that sense of community.
Glamour: What exciting projects or new ventures can your fans look forward to? Any hints or teasers you can share?
Tolú: I can’t share too many details just yet, but there are definitely exciting projects on the horizon! I’m working on some collaborations that I think my fans will love, so stay tuned for more updates!
Glamour: What’s one thing about you that fans might be surprised to learn, something that doesn’t always make it onto your social media or reality TV appearances?
Tolú: One thing that might surprise my fans is how much I value my alone time. While I love being in the spotlight and around people, I need those quiet moments alone to recharge and reset. Whether it’s journaling, painting, or just relaxing with a good book, my alone time is essential for me to stay grounded and inspired. It’s not something that always comes across on social media or TV, but it’s a big part of who I am.
Glamour: Which women are on your radar and why?
Tolú: Ayra Starr, Tems, Tyla, Ayo Edebiri, and Rosemary Zimu are all on my radar for their incredible talent and authenticity. Ayra and Tems are redefining Afrobeat, Tyla is taking Amapiano to the global stage, Ayo brings fresh perspectives to acting, and Rosemary delivers powerful performances. Each of these women inspires me, not only as powerhouses in their fields but also in how they own their space and break barriers with confidence and grace.
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