Pageantry and Modeling:
At the age of 20, Osas participated in the Miss Black USA pageant in 2010 and became the first Nigerian-American to win the title. Her success in the pageant sparked her interest in modeling and performing arts. Encouraged by her parents, she attended a modeling school in the United States, which further ignited her passion for the entertainment industry.
Career Breakthrough and Philanthropic Initiatives:
In 2012, Osas moved to Nigeria with the intention of staying for six months. However, upon recognizing the potential in the Nollywood entertainment industry, she decided to stay and pursue her acting career. She landed a role in the award-winning soap opera, Tinsel, where she played the character of Adanna (Danni). Her performance in Tinsel earned her recognition and opened doors to other TV soap operas and films in Nollywood.
Alongside her successful acting career, Osas is also a humanitarian. She founded the Joyful Joy Foundation in honor of her sister, who tragically passed away from malaria as a child. The foundation aims to raise funds and awareness to combat malaria in Nigeria and beyond.
Notable Works and Awards:
Osas Ighodaro’s talent and dedication have earned her numerous accolades. She won the Best TV Actress of the Year award at the 2014 ELOY Awards for her role in Tinsel. In the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, she received two awards: Best Actress in a Drama for her outstanding performance in “Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story” and Best Dressed Female.
Movies and TV Series:
Osas Ighodaro has showcased her acting prowess in various movies and TV series, including “Killa Season,” “Cadillac Records,” “The Department,” “Kings of Boys,” and “Bling Lagosians,” to name a few. Her versatility and ability to portray diverse characters have made her a sought-after actress in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Personal Life and Social Media Presence:
In August 2014, Osas got engaged to Gbenro Emmanuel Ajibade, a model, actor, and producer. They tied the knot on July 4th, 2015, and have a daughter named Azariah Tiwatope Osarugue Ajibade. Unfortunately, they divorced in 2019. Osas remains active on social media platforms, where she shares updates about her projects, philanthropic activities, and personal life.
Conclusion:
Osas Ighodaro is a remarkable Nigerian-American actress, model, and philanthropist who has left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. Her dedication to her craft, philanthropic endeavors, and elegant presence have made her a beloved figure in Nigeria and beyond. As she continues to shine on both the big and small screens, we can expect to witness more outstanding performances and impactful initiatives from this talented individual.
