Actress, filmmaker, and mother Funke Akindele has never shied away from speaking her truth. This time, she’s taking a stand against societal pressure particularly the expectations placed on women regarding marriage and motherhood. In a heartfelt message that has resonated across social media, Funke reminds women that the decision to have children should come from love and readiness, not from ticking clocks or gossiping mouths. “Children are a blessing. But have them because you love children. Have them because you’re ready, emotionally and financially. Not because society is whispering that your clock is ticking.” Her words speak directly to the quiet battles many women face, silent comparisons, backhanded questions, and cultural timelines that push them to make life-altering decisions before they’re ready. She boldly calls for women to tune out that noise. “Ignore the voices that make you feel small. The ones that say, ‘Ah! Six years, you never marry.’ Block them out. Don’t give them your peace of mind. You don’t owe them anything.” In a world that’s always rushing women into the next chapter, marriage, childbirth, more children, Funke’s message is a breath of fresh air: you are not late; you’re living on purpose. “You owe yourself happiness. You owe yourself patience. Trust your journey.” Coming from a woman who has seen the highs and lows of public life, motherhood, and career reinvention, Funke’s voice carries both authority and compassion. Her message is clear: your life is not a race. It’s a story, one only you can write, in your own time, at your own pace.