Nigerian-American star Osas Ighodaro reflects on her Paris Fashion Week debut, cultural authenticity, and the inspiration behind her artistic journey.

In her debut at Paris Fashion Week, Osas Ighodaro shines as she showcases her unique style on a prestigious international stage. Styled by 2207 by Tbally, her presence at elite events, including shows by Christian Siriano, Ungaro, and Sandro, underscores her rising status in the fashion world. Born and raised in the Bronx with Nigerian roots, Osas is known for her standout performances in films like Rattlesnake and Man of God, as well as her co-produced Netflix series Smart Money Woman. Beyond acting, Osas founded Imuetinyan Productions to empower communities through entertainment, with projects like Spa with Osas and collaborations with Asurf Films and Burna Boy’s Spaceship Films/ Throughout her journey, she has continued to demonstrate her commitment to uplifting women’s voices.

 

With an eclectic blend of influences from Nigeria, Europe, and Asia, Osas Ighodaro’s presentation reflects the growing global presence of African fashion. Not only marking a personal milestone, the event also highlighted her commitment to cultural authenticity and self-expression. In our exclusive interview, she tells us how her roots shape her approach to fashion and acting, the impact of her late mother as a guiding force in her career, and the mission behind her production company, Imuetinyan Productions. With aspirations to expand her artistic reach globally, Osas Ighodaro is poised for a future filled with exciting collaborations and impactful storytelling.

Congratulations on your debut at Paris Fashion Week! How did it feel to showcase your unique style on such an international stage?

It felt amazing! Showcasing outfits from Nigeria, Europe and Asia made me feel Global. There is no limit to what and where I can be.

What does cultural authenticity mean to you, and how do you incorporate it into your style?

For me, it’s all about what makes you authentic. If you feel comfortable and confident in whatever it is you rock, then that in itself is being authentic, no matter where the clothes come from.

You’ve worked with renowned designers and attended elite fashion shows. Can you share a memorable experience from one of these events that stood out to you?

It would be attending the Tokyo James Fashion Experience at Milan Fashion Week. I was styled by Tokyo James a long time ago, so to see his growth and how he is taking the fashion world by storm is truly amazing to see. One of my best friends also walked his show as one of his featured models and that was the cherry on top. It was such a beautiful moment.

As a Nigerian-American, how do your cultural roots shape your approach to both fashion and acting? Are there specific elements you draw from your heritage?

I like to wear many things: fashion that showcases my culture, other cultures, my mood. It’s limitless.

You’re known for your versatility in both film and stage productions. How do you balance your acting career with your role as a producer and media personality?

With anything and everything it does take planning and balance. I love to do many things and I wear many hats so making sure there is a schedule that helps with getting things done and keeping things balanced.

Your mother is a significant source of inspiration for you. Can you elaborate on how her influence has shaped your career and personal values?

My mother – may she rest in peace – she meant and means so much to me. Her entire existence is an inspiration and a driving force for me to achieve, to do better and of course make her legacy proud. She has shaped me to be the compassionate, hard-working, focused individual that I am today. She sacrificed so much for my family that I need to do my best in life to make her proud. I know she’s my guardian angel and is smiling down on me.

Imuetinyan Productions focuses on uplifting voices and creating a positive impact. What inspired you to start your production company, and what projects are you most proud of?

As a creative, my goal is to create. It has been a long time coming with creating projects that resonate with my creative goals. I want to produce projects that inspire, entertain and motivate. Imuetinyan Productions is still a baby in the industry but thus far we have done great work. ‘Spa with Osas’ and ‘3 Cold dishes’ are projects we are proud of. We are extremely excited for the works to come.

Your work in humanitarian efforts, particularly with the Joyful Joy Foundation, is commendable. How do you see the relationship between art and advocacy in your life?

Thank you. I believe it comes hand in hand and also doesn’t need to depend on one another. Helping the less privileged is something we as human beings need to do always. We don’t need a particular reason to help another. If I am able to impact those through my art then I should be able to do it through being a humanitarian as well.

As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated, how has your sorority experience contributed to your personal and professional growth?

Sisterhood and the goal of ‘service to all mankind’ has always made an impact in my life. My experience of having long lasting relationships with amazing women and making sure our communities are served with our goodwill and service is something that impacts me in ways I’m forever grateful for. I’m proud to be an Alpha Kappa Alpha woman.

Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for the future? Are there specific projects or collaborations you’re excited to pursue in the coming years?

Taking my art on a global scale is a major aspiration for me. I am excited for some collaborations I can’t speak on just yet but do know that your girl here is focused and working and excited for what the future holds.