By Didimoko A. Didimoko
Amanda Oruh, born Esther Nwamaka Amanda Chineyenwa Laura Oruh, is a rising powerhouse in the Nigerian movie industry – Nollywood. She is a force of nature whose talent, passion, and dedication have quickly made her one of the most compelling figures in the Nigerian entertainment industry. With a background in Microbiology from Abia State University, Amanda’s transition from the world of science to acting speaks volumes about her courage, resilience, and unstoppable drive.
Amanda’s journey into the entertainment industry is nothing short of extraordinary. From an early age, her love for performance was undeniable, with her university years seeing her actively participate in stage productions. However, it was in 2015 that she took a bold leap, leaving behind a stable banking career to pursue acting full-time. The decision is one that made many ponder what was amiss with this talented vixen. But since then, she has built a stunning body of work that continues to captivate and enthralled audiences both in Nigeria and globally.
Her breakthrough role as Princess Abiyere in Riona, Africa Magic’s hit telenovela, made an instant impact, showcasing Amanda’s remarkable ability to breathe life into complex characters. She further cemented her status as a budding star when she played the enigmatic ‘Mystery Lady’ in Kemi Adetiba’s King of Boys: The Return of the King, a Netflix series that captivated audiences worldwide.
Amanda’s impressive body of work also includes standout roles in upcoming projects like Chetam (2024), Forever Yours (2024), Fearfully in Love (2024), and Big Book of Lies (2023), each showcasing her incredible range and depth as an actress. With every new project, she evolves and proves herself as one of Nollywood’s brightest and most versatile stars.
The irrepressible Amanda – a star that’s born to shine
But Amanda is not just an actress—she is a visionary filmmaker working to shape the future of African cinema. In 2017, she made her mark as a producer with Strangers Web, a film that captivated audiences with its gripping exploration of survival and forgiveness. Her directorial debut came with the short film Three Faces, created in collaboration with Cine Fabrique Nomad and the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). Her directing skills earned her widespread praise, and Three Faces quickly became one of the festival’s most talked-about projects.
Amanda’s remarkable versatility also shines in voice acting. In 2024, she lent her voice to the character of Olufemi Adisa’s mother in The Recipe, produced by Crystal Porter-Bazemore and directed by Tawan Bazemore. The film, which has earned accolades at prestigious festivals like the Micheaux Film Festival, San Antonio Film Festival, and DC Black Film Festival, went on to win the People’s Choice Award at the Denton Black Film Festival, further solidifying Amanda’s place as a rising star in the industry.
Her presence extends beyond the screen into the world of media and advertising. Amanda has hosted Viewer’s Delight on NTA 10 and RedCarpetOnTv, bringing her signature charisma to the small screen. She has also modelled in commercials for top brands like Parimatch and SPAR, showcasing her adaptability and appeal across multiple platforms.
A lifelong learner, Amanda has made sure to expand her skill set to stay ahead of the curve. She holds a diploma in digital marketing from the Digital Marketing Skill Institute, specializing in social media management and advertising. In addition, she completed a virtual assistant program through the prestigious ALX Program, which speaks to her commitment to continuous learning, growth, and leadership.
Through her rapidly growing YouTube channel, AMANDA ORUH, she connects with fans across the globe. On her platform, she gives an authentic look into the life of an actor in Lagos, while also championing women’s and girls’ rights, social justice, personal development, and empowerment. Her belief in using her voice to uplift others is at the heart of her content, and her ability to inspire and motivate shines through with every video she shares.
As a passionate advocate for gender equality, Amanda has made it her life’s mission to empower women and girls worldwide. She believes in the importance of family values, and those who encounter her note the warmth, positivity, and unwavering support she exudes. Her life philosophy is simple yet profound: there is room for everyone to succeed, and lifting others only amplifies one’s light.
Looking to the future, Amanda envisions taking her talents to the global stage, starring in international films, especially those that portray powerful women who fought for justice and liberation. She is determined to be an active participant in global conversations around filmmaking, advocacy, and social change.
Amanda Oruh is a true game-changer in the Nigerian film industry, and her story is only just beginning. With her boundless talent, dedication, and vision, she is poised to leave an indelible mark on Nollywood, the global film industry, and the causes she holds dear. If you haven’t noticed her yet, now is the time to pay attention—Amanda Oruh is a star on the rise, and the world is ready for everything she has to offer.
