Okawa Shaznay Biography: Age, Husband, Family, Movies, Instagram, Net Worth, Wiki, Parents, Siblings

Okawa Shaznay, a renowned Cameroonian Nollywood actress and model, has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian movie industry. Born on May 5, 1986, in Bamenda, Northwest Region, Cameroon, she has not only captivated audiences with her acting prowess but also broken barriers as the first actress from her country to make her mark in the Nigerian film scene.

Early Life and Education:

Growing up in Cameroon, Shaznay’s interest in the performing arts ignited at a young age. She dabbled in stage plays and minor film projects within her homeland. The influx of Nigerian films into Cameroon introduced her to Nollywood in the 1990s, kindling her admiration for the industry. Classic Nigerian soaps like “After the Storm” and “When the Sun Sets,” along with movies like “Glamour Girls,” “Scores to Settle,” and “Living in Bondage,” fueled her aspiration to pursue a career in Nollywood.

Shaznay pursued her secondary and high school education at the Presbyterian Secondary School in Mankon, Cameroon’s North West region. In 2005, she ventured to the United States for higher education, ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Texas Southern University in 2009.

Career Journey:

Shaznay’s acting journey commenced with her role in the Cameroonian film “Master DJ,” produced by Sarabi Pictures in 2004. She later joined the All Africa Theater Company in Houston, engaging in a stage adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart.” Her presence in over ten African films in the United States alongside notable Nollywood figures propelled her to recognition within the African film industry. In 2010, she earned a spot among the top 50 Cameroonians to watch by the UK blog Dulce Camer.

Shaznay’s return to Africa marked a pivotal point in her career. She starred in her first major motion picture, “Cheaters,” directed by the legendary Frank Rajah Arase. In 2014, her breakthrough role came in the Nigerian hit film “Iyore,” where she acted alongside Nollywood luminaries Rita Dominic and Joseph Benjamin. Notably, her portrayal in the 2016 TV series “Delilah: The Mysterious Case of Delilah Ambrose” earned her the Exquisite Lady of the Year (ELOY) award for TV Actress of the Year.

Filmography:

Shaznay’s filmography boasts an impressive array of works, including:

• Cheaters 1 & 2
• Sisters At War 1 & 2
• Cheaters Vacation
• The Prince of Barmah
• Scars
• Iyore
• Refugees
• Delilah: The Mysterious Case of Delilah Ambrose (TV series) – Seasons 1, 2 & 3
• And many more

Awards and Accolades:

Shaznay’s dedication and talent have garnered her recognition and accolades. Notable awards include:

• Exquisite Lady of the Year (ELOY) Awards – TV Actress of the Year (2016)
• Nollywood and African Film Critics’ Awards – Best Actress in a series (2017)

Personal Life and Social Media:

Presently, Shaznay resides in Lagos, Nigeria. Her vibrant presence extends to social media platforms, where she engages with fans and admirers:

• Instagram: @okawashaznay
• Twitter: OkawaShaznay

Conclusion:

Okawa Shaznay’s journey from Cameroon to Nollywood exemplifies dedication, talent, and a pioneering spirit. With her remarkable acting career and the accolades she has received, she continues to inspire aspiring actors and showcase the global reach of African cinema.