Lupita Nyong’o has made history by being the first Kenyan to win an Oscar. The actress won the Oscar for best supporting actress on Sunday, for her role as the slave Patsey in drama “12 Years a Slave.”
Nyong’o, who turned 31 on Saturday, received a standing ovation from the Hollywood audience. She beat strong competition from Jennifer Lawrence of ‘American Hustle’, in a very closely-watched Academy Award race.
“It doesn’t escape me for one moment that so much joy in my life is thanks to so much pain in someone else’s, and so I want to salute the spirit of Patsey, for her guidance.” Lupita said as she accepted the award. “When I look down at this golden statue, may it remind me and every little child that no matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.”
The Oscars are the most prestigious awards in the film industry, world over. Many seasoned actors, like Leonardo DiCaprio, cannot boast of one. It is therefore a big achievement for a first timer to win.
Congratulations to Lupita.