Top 5 Kannywood Actresses Who Are Also Entrepreneurs
Kannywood, the vibrant Hausa-language film industry based in Northern Nigeria, has not only produced some of the country’s finest talents in acting but has also given rise to several successful female entrepreneurs. Many of these actresses have skillfully balanced their careers in the entertainment industry with notable business ventures. Here is a look at the top five Kannywood actresses who have become successful entrepreneurs.
1. Rahama Sadau
Rahama Sadau is one of Kannywood’s most recognizable faces, known for her outstanding performances in films such as Rariya and Up North. Apart from her successful acting career, Rahama has ventured into entrepreneurship. She owns Sadau's Cosmetics, a thriving beauty brand that has gained popularity for its skincare and beauty products. The brand focuses on products tailored to meet the needs of her fans, predominantly in Northern Nigeria. Rahama has also worked as a brand ambassador for several companies, further cementing her influence both on and off the screen.
Her ability to seamlessly balance her acting and business ventures is impressive, making her one of the top Kannywood stars who has successfully transitioned into entrepreneurship. Rahama also gained wider recognition when she made her Nollywood debut, further expanding her market reach.
2. Hadiza Gabon
Hadiza Aliyu, popularly known as Hadiza Gabon, is another top Kannywood actress who has diversified into business. Born in Libreville, Gabon, Hadiza moved to Nigeria to pursue her acting career and quickly became one of the most beloved actresses in Kannywood. Apart from her acting prowess, she has made significant strides in entrepreneurship. Hadiza is involved in several philanthropic activities and has also invested in business ventures, including real estate.
Her transition into entrepreneurship highlights her ambition and desire to grow beyond the entertainment industry. Her success in acting, coupled with her business ventures, has made her one of the most admired actresses in the industry.
3. Maryam Booth
Maryam Booth, a prominent figure in Kannywood, hails from a family deeply entrenched in the entertainment industry—her mother is the veteran actress Zainab Booth. Maryam’s career has flourished with notable roles in films such as Gani Ga Wane and Sons of the Caliphate. Beyond her acting, Maryam is a successful entrepreneur who has launched her clothing line, Maryam Booth Couture, specializing in fashionable and modest attire for women.
She has also ventured into beauty and skincare products, further showcasing her versatility and business acumen. Maryam’s entrepreneurial journey has been supported by her wide fan base, helping her grow her brands within and beyond the Northern Nigerian market.
4. Nafisat Abdullahi
Nafisat Abdullahi is another celebrated Kannywood actress who has diversified into entrepreneurship. With her beauty, talent, and elegant performances in films like Sai Wata Rana and Lamiraj, Nafisat has captured the hearts of millions. Beyond acting, she is the founder of Naf Cosmetics, a beauty brand specializing in skincare and cosmetics. Her entrepreneurial success stems from her understanding of her fans' needs and her ability to create products that resonate with them.
Nafisat is also actively involved in philanthropy and women’s rights advocacy, often using her platform to highlight social issues. Her ventures into entrepreneurship have been successful, making her a key figure not just in Kannywood but in the world of Nigerian business.
5. Hafsat Idris
Hafsat Idris is known for her captivating roles in Kannywood films such as Barauniya and Kaddara. Her rise in the film industry was swift, but she has also established herself as a successful entrepreneur. Hafsat runs a series of business ventures, including a production company, which not only showcases her talents but also supports emerging Kannywood filmmakers. Her influence in the business world has been bolstered by her fame, and she continues to inspire many young women aspiring to succeed in both entertainment and entrepreneurship.
Hafsat’s story is one of determination, resilience, and passion. Her dual career as an actress and entrepreneur has earned her a strong following, and she remains one of Kannywood’s most influential figures.
Conclusion
These five Kannywood actresses have not only excelled on the screen but have also ventured into successful business enterprises, proving that they are more than just entertainers. Their ability to balance both careers is inspiring and has set a positive example for aspiring actresses and entrepreneurs in Nigeria. As they continue to grow their business empires, their influence in both Kannywood and the wider Nigerian entrepreneurial landscape is bound to increase. These women showcase that with determination, passion, and hard work, it’s possible to succeed in multiple fields, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
In an industry that is often limited in terms of opportunities, these actresses have demonstrated that diversifying into entrepreneurship can be both lucrative and fulfilling. From beauty products to clothing lines and production companies, they have shown that creativity can extend beyond the screen, creating lasting impacts in the world of business.