Words by Jemi Ekunkunbor

Abbesi Akhamie is a New York-based writer, producer and director. Her recent offering is the wave-making flm– The Incredible Sensational Fiancée of Sèyí Àjàyí rscreened recently at the Toronto Film Festival and the Africa International Film Festival, Lekki.

Born in Heidelberg, Germany to a Nigerian father and a Black-American mother, Abbesi holds a degree Communications from George Mason University and is a MFA candidate at New York University graduate film programme.
In the last five years, she has made several shorts that have been featured at various festivals.

In this exclusive interview with Allure, she talks about her vision of a world without western dominance and the celebration of Black and African culture and heritage in a refreshing, vibrant way that highlight African designs and aesthetics.

You were in Nigeria recently for the screening of your new film, The Incredible Sensational Fiancée of Sèyí Àjàyí; what was home coming like for you?

It was amazing to screen the film and receive such positive first reactions from one of my most important audiences–the Nigerian audience! During the screening, viewers were especially vocal about the relationship dynamic between Seyi and Constance–men tended to be in support of Seyi’s actions while women were in support of Constance. (I’m Team Constance!) I also received high praise for the vibrant colour palette in costume and set design. The feedback has been incredibly encouraging especially as I market the film and seek partners for the series adaptation.

Some Nigerian are on social media dragging music star Davido for discouraging blacks abroad like you, who want to come home to invest; what made you trust the system?

Nigeria is full of opportunities, and I strongly believe in investing in our people and country. Like any investment, there are risks, but Nigeria has a history of resilience and success that’s hard to ignore. For the past decade I’ve been working in Nigeria, I’ve had a generally positive experience and have come across great collaborators to bring my vision to life. In the next decade, I’m excited to continue making films, supporting other African filmmakers, and exploring entrepreneurship endeavours as well.

What inspired this new film?
I wanted to create something rooted in African beauty and culture, while exploring relationship dynamics from a female perspective in a comedic,.! light-hearted way. What began as a series about three women engaged to the same man, evolved into a vibrant world set in the fictitious Pan-African community of Alkebulan. In thinking of the aesthetic and design of the film, I was inspired by the 1960s, a time period when many African countries were gaining their independence. There was a sense of hope and excitement for the future, as well as a renaissance of art and culture, and I wanted to encapsulate this for the film. I sought further inspiration from Malian photographers Seydou Keïta and Malick Sidibé as well as Nigerian photographer Oye Diran’s “A Ti De” photo series, to name a few.

⁠Despite your heavy German background and influences, you chose to do a movie that celebrates Black and African culture, employing African design and aesthetics; why is that?

I was born in Germany, raised in the United States, with a Nigerian father and Black-American mother. From a young age, I quickly understood that no matter where I go, I am Black, African, and female. Returning to Nigeria as an adult, reaffirmed my beliefs in the beauty of African design and aesthetic which are deeply underrepresented in film.
Africa is a largely untapped reservoir of creativity and innovation that deserves to be showcased. When one system or culture dominates the global narrative, it limits the world’s understanding of what’s possible, and we miss out on the ingenuity and diversity that other cultures offer. By creating this film, I wanted to celebrate and showcase African culture and present it in a way that feels authentic, bold, and reimagined. My hope is that it encourages others to embrace and amplify their own unique stories.

How is the film being received?

The film has been warmly received, and I’m excited to develop the series. A highlight was hearing the audience join in on Sèyí Àjàyí’s rap during the screening—such an endearing moment! Fun fact, Ayoola Ayolola came up with the original rap just before we got that particular shot. As I was playing the silent Princess Ada character, it was incredibly hard to keep a straight face!

Africa seems to be doing well globally with music and movies; how can movie producers use their films to promote our fashion?
Filmmakers at all levels can collaborate with fashion designers and brands that share a similar mission: celebrating African design and culture. There are so many up-and-coming designers who would love to be featured in films and in today’s age of social media, it’s easier to access them. Slide into their DMs! For this film, I partnered Aké Collective and Amoké Skincare, showcasing homegrown excellence. For the series, I look forward to expanding these collaborations.

⁠Cheating and betrayal which forms the plot of The Incredible Sensational Fiancée of Sèyí Àjàyí often leave women broken, shamed and defeated; but in a nice twist, you made the cheated character–fiancée of Seyi Ajayi to triumph and empowered; can you share with us your thoughts here?

Women often face societal pressures and biological timelines that make betrayals especially devastating. These experiences can deeply affect their self-esteem and challenge the expectations placed on them about relationships and life timelines. With Constance’s journey, I wanted to explore a pathway to healing that feels both surprising and empowering. One of my favourite lines in the film is when she says, ‘I am breaking up with you!’ It might feel a little dramatic but, it’s a pivotal moment of reclaiming her power as she refuses to be silent or ashamed.

How can women support one another like those cheated girlfriends did in the film?

One of my favourite characters in the film is Bibi, and it’s because she is Constance’s support after such a humiliating and heartbreaking experience. Bibi’s humor is met with her no-nonsense attitude which helps Constance quickly get back on her feet. Support starts with being present—listening, offering comfort, or even saying a prayer. Building each other up through kindness and solidarity makes all the difference.

⁠Nice to see Hollywood opening little by little to Nollywood; but how long before we begin to see the big names in directing and acting collaborating with their Nigerian counterparts to do great things?

I think it could be sooner than later, as there’s growing global interest in African projects. However, I think it’s more than just saying “collaboration” it must be the right components—good partners, solid financing, and of course, a good story that resonates with Nigerians.

What was it like working with the cast?
Working with a group of seasoned professionals united by African heritage was refreshing. The experience was filled with laughter and mutual support. With representation from Cameroun, Guinea Bissau, and Nigeria, the cast’s background speaks to the larger Pan-African theme in the film, and I look forward to even more collaborations and representation in the future.

How would you assess the Nigerian film industry?
Nollywood is thriving, breaking box office records annually, as well as being the 2nd largest industry in the world. To sustain this growth, I think it’s important to invest in and nurture new talent while expanding film education. There is also a great need for transparency when it comes to in-country grant and loan programs which will allow up-and-coming filmmakers to secure financing desperately needed for their projects. Fresh films and ideas will add to the diversity of Nigerian cinema and contribute to sustainable growth in the industry.

What is the nature of collaboration you are currently having with Ebony life TV?

I am the former Head of Department for Producing at EbonyLife Creative Academy which is supported by Lagos State Government. This past year, I taught over 60 students the fundamentals of creative producing, production management, and line producing–it was an unforgettable experience. Teaching and mentorship has allowed me to give back to my community and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity.

How can story tellers like you, create a world without Western dominance?

We can’t change the past, but we can shape the future by showcasing Africa’s beauty, power, and intelligence through our chosen mediums. This begins with curiosity—rediscovering our surroundings, learning our history, and listening to the wisdom of our elders. Instead of focusing on Western dominance, the goal should be to share our stories, ideas, and cultures authentically and confidently. By doing so, we contribute to creating a more diverse and inclusive world, where multiple narratives coexist and thrive. Over time, this natural shift toward diversity will diminish the weight of Western dominance, not by erasing it, but by elevating other perspectives to equal prominence.

You have gone from Toronto Film Festival to Africa International Film Festival; what’s next for you?

The series adaptation, “The Incredible Fiancées of Sèyí Àjàyí” is in development and seeking partners and financiers. It will be bigger, bolder with more laughter and drama! I’m also writing two feature scripts and an ebook discussing sustainability practices for a career in filmmaking.

When you are not working how do you like to relax?
I’m quite busy these days but a sure way for me to relax is catching up with friends over a good meal. Typically, my favourite restaurant to go to is this Thai spot near my house, and I’m often accompanied by my best friend, Beth, who I’ve known since I was 11-years-old. We spend hours upon hours just talking about life, goals, relationships, and family. Those moments of laughter and shared perspectives recharge and inspire me.

⁠Where in the world is your favourite travel destination and why?

Nice, France. When I was in college, I did a month-long study abroad program in Milan, Italy, and took a weekend trip to Nice, France, with three Pakistani-American girls who became my good friends. It was my first beach experience, and everything felt cinematic—from strolling the boardwalk to speaking French while asking for directions and the clear blue sky.

What is Christmas like in Germany or the Big Apple?

I grew up in New Jersey, and Christmas meant exchanging gifts and enjoying my mom’s amazing cooking—baked mac and cheese, collard greens, turkey, and sweet potatoes. There were also endless desserts including banana bread and pound cake.

What was growing up like and which of your parents had the greatest influence on you?

Growing up, I was very driven and always took initiative when it came to getting my assignments done. I got that from my mother. My love and pride for who I am came from my father.

What fond childhood memories do you have of Christmas?
In high school around Christmas time, I would sing carols at a local hospital. Those choir days are especially memorable as I don’t get to sing often as an adult.