Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim in a chat with Punch last weekend.
Background
My name is Juliet Ibrahim, an actress and
I was born in Accra, Ghana. I am the eldest of four children. I grew up
in several countries- Ivory Coast, Lebanon, Liberia and Ghana. Some of
the countries I grew up in were war-torn countries and I experienced
war in Lebanon, Ivory Coast and Liberia. This made me grow up and
stronger than I should be. As the firstborn, I had the responsibility
of taking care of my siblings and helping my mother during those periods
of conflicts. My father is a Lebanese businessman, who runs a
supermarket. He kept moving his business from one country to the other
as a result of wars. I read marketing, advertising and public relations
at the Ghana Institute of Journalism.
Growing up
I am a half-caste and as a child, there
was no colour difference- you are just happy with where you are and who
you are with. Then, Ghanaians accepted people for who they are.
However, I am being told now that I am receiving more favours because of
my fair complexion. It seems people now have issues with coloured
people.
Acting
I have always wanted to be in the
spotlight. As a child, I wanted to be a very popular musician and there
was an opportunity in 2005. Somebody called me for an audition and I was
given a lead role where I acted alongside Majid Michel. After my first
movie, I got another role. It has been nine years in the industry.
Though not an easy feat, I thank God. Recently, I produced my own film
and it will be premiered in Lagos this December.
Challenges
Sometimes, it is related with my colour.
The fact that I am of a mixed race makes people think that I receive
preferential treatment. That is a huge misconception. There are times
my colour is a disadvantage and I cannot get certain roles. They would
rather give the role to a dark-skinned actor especially if both parents
are dark in the movie. Sometimes, the fair-complexioned actors are cast
in the roles of husband snatchers and other bad characters. People don’t
know that we go through a lot. It has been very challenging to get a
role that can elevate my talent.
The real Juliet Ibrahim
I am just a very simple person. I am
hardworking, a businesswoman and a mother of a three-year-old son. I do
charity work too. I released two of my singles this year.
Relationship
I am married to a Ghanaian, who is a
quarter-caste. His mother is half Lebanese and half Ghanaian. We met
several years ago when he was living in the United States of America. I
was attracted to his personality and intelligence. We kept in touch and
got married three years ago when he relocated to Ghana.
Family life
My family copes very well when I am away
working. My husband works too. He is currently out of the country. I
miss my son a lot at such times but my mother is taking good care of
him.
Any other business
Apart from acting, I operate a boutique
in Accra. I have a beauty salon as well. I also run a charity
organisation for cancer awareness. It has been running since 2010. I
have my production house and I also do music. I have a modelling and
talent agency, where I recruit young people who are interested in taking
part in movies and television commercials.
Style
I used to wear anything and walk around
with my flip flops. Now, I am conscious of the fact that style matters
and anything I do as a celebrity is a part of me. I always have to
look my best always. Style, for me, is wearing what I am comfortable
in. I try my best to always play with my shape and make sure my figure
comes out. I can try any kind of dress. I am very dramatic with my
dressing.
Favourite fashion accessories
Sunglasses and handbags.
Wish list
If I were not an actor, I would have been
a musician. Also, if I did not get the chance to be in the spotlight, I
would have been a very famous lawyer.
*running to have my skin bleached* *lol*
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