Stories and facts

Ama K. Abebrese has spent more than two decades lighting up screens across Africa and beyond.

Born in Ghana and raised in West London, she grew up surrounded by culture, creativity, and the stories that would eventually shape her career as an actress, TV presenter, and producer.

Her big breakthrough came in 2011 when she won Best Actress in a Leading Role at the African Movie Academy Awards for her powerful performance in Sinking Sands.

That award didn’t just celebrate her talent, it introduced her to a wider African and global audience.

Since then, Ama has been part of some of Ghana’s most acclaimed film projects. She starred in Azali, the first Ghanaian film ever submitted for the Oscars, and played a memorable role as Abraham Attah’s mother in the award-winning Netflix hit Beasts of No Nation, directed by Cary Fukunaga and featuring Idris Elba.

She also brought her voice and vision to the poetic film The Burial of Kojo, serving as producer and narrator.

Her work hasn’t gone unnoticed. She has earned a spot among Africa’s Top 20 Actors and Actresses, a reflection of her dedication and influence.

Ama’s television journey began early, starting as a teenager at YCTV in London. She later appeared on BBC2’s Pass da Mic, English File, and worked across major networks like OBE TV, Viasat 1, TV3, and Ebonylife TV. Her warm, engaging style has made her a familiar and trusted presence on screen.

Her academic path took her through Burlington Danes Academy and St Mary’s University in Twickenham, where she graduated with a degree in Media Arts and Drama.

Along the way, she developed her love for acting with the Lyric Theatre Summer Company and featured on shows such as Challenge Anneka.

Back in Ghana, Ama played a key leadership role at Viasat 1 as Head of Own Productions and Executive Producer.

She also hosted popular shows like A Day in the Life and New Day, further cementing her status as one of the country’s most influential media personalities.

Her impact reaches far beyond entertainment. She was named one of C Hub Magazine’s “100 Most Influential African Women Influencers” and, in 2015, ranked as Ghana’s Number 1 Most Influential TV and Radio Host on social media.

Explore the life of Ama K. Abebrese below.