I like to show my shape –Juliet Ibrahim
Background
My name is Juliet Ibrahim, an actress and I was born in Accra, Ghana. I am the eldest of four children. I grew up in several countries- Ivory Coast, Lebanon, Liberia and Ghana. Some of the countries I grew up in were war-torn countries and I experienced war in Lebanon, Ivory Coast and Liberia. This made me grow up and stronger than I should be. As the firstborn, I had the responsibility of taking care of my siblings and helping my mother during those periods of conflicts. My father is a Lebanese businessman, who runs a supermarket. He kept moving his business from one country to the other as a result of wars. I read marketing, advertising and public relations at the Ghana Institute of Journalism.
Growing up
I am a half-caste and as a child, there was no colour difference- you are just happy with where you are and who you are with. Then, Ghanaians accepted people for who they are. However, I am being told now that I am receiving more favours because of my fair complexion. It seems people now have issues with coloured people.
Acting
I have always wanted to be in the spotlight. As a child, I wanted to be a very popular musician and there was an opportunity in 2005. Somebody called me for an audition and I was given a lead role where I acted alongside Majid Michel. After my first movie, I got another role. It has been nine years in the industry. Though not an easy feat, I thank God. Recently, I produced my own film and it will be premiered in Lagos this December.
Challenges
Sometimes, it is related with my colour. The fact that I am of a mixed race makes people think that I receive preferential treatment. That is a huge misconception. There are times my colour is a disadvantage and I cannot get certain roles. They would rather give the role to a dark-skinned actor especially if both parents are dark in the movie. Sometimes, the fair-complexioned actors are cast in the roles of husband snatchers and other bad characters. People don't know that we go through a lot. It has been very challenging to get a role that can elevate my talent.
The real Juliet Ibrahim
I am just a very simple person. I am hardworking, a businesswoman and a mother of a three-year-old son. I do charity work too. I released two of my singles this year.
Relationship
I am married to a Ghanaian, who is a quarter-caste. His mother is half Lebanese and half Ghanaian. We met several years ago when he was living in the United States of America. I was attracted to his personality and intelligence. We kept in touch and got married three years ago when he relocated to Ghana.
Family life
My family copes very well when I am away working. My husband works too. He is currently out of the country. I miss my son a lot at such times but my mother is taking good care of him.
Any other business
Apart from acting, I operate a boutique in Accra. I have a beauty salon as well. I also run a charity organisation for cancer awareness. It has been running since 2010. I have my production house and I also do music. I have a modelling and talent agency, where I recruit young people who are interested in taking part in movies and television commercials.
Style
I used to wear anything and walk around with my flip flops. Now, I am conscious of the fact that style matters and anything I do as a celebrity is a part of me. I always have to look my best always. Style, for me, is wearing what I am comfortable in. I try my best to always play with my shape and make sure my figure comes out. I can try any kind of dress. I am very dramatic with my dressing.
Favourite fashion accessories
Sunglasses and handbags.
Wish list
If I were not an actor, I would have been a musician. Also, if I did not get the chance to be in the spotlight, I would have been a very famous lawyer.
