Early Life and Education
Sharon Ooja hails from the Idoma tribe of Benue State, Nigeria. She was born in Kaduna State but spent much of her early life in Plateau State. Growing up in a Christian household with three sisters, Sharon developed strong family values and a passion for storytelling.
Her educational journey began at Kings and Queens School in Jos, where she completed her primary education. For her secondary education, she attended two prestigious all-girls boarding schools: Regina Pacis Secondary School in Garki II, Abuja, and St. Louis Girls’ College in Jos. These formative years played a crucial role in shaping her character and aspirations.
Sharon pursued higher education at Houdegbe North American University in Benin, where she earned a degree in Mass Communication. This academic background provided her with the foundation needed to excel in the entertainment industry.
The Journey to Acting
Sharon's foray into acting was serendipitous. After moving to Lagos in 2013, she participated in a photo session for a store, which was being covered by NdaniTV. Her natural charisma and presence caught the attention of the team, leading to an interview for a television show that, although never aired, opened doors for her in the industry.
Her official acting debut came with a small role in the television series Gidi Up. However, it was her portrayal of "Shalewa" in Skinny Girl in Transit that catapulted her to fame. Her performance was widely appreciated, and she quickly became a household name in Nigeria.
Since her breakthrough role, Sharon has continued to impress audiences with her versatility and talent. She has appeared in numerous films and TV shows, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Some of her notable works include:
TV Shows
- Flawsome (2022-present): Playing the role of Ivie in this Showmax original series.
- The Men's Club (2018-2020): As Jasmine in this popular Red TV series.
- Skinny Girl in Transit (2016-current): Her iconic role as Shalewa in the Ndani TV series.
- Gidi Up (2013-2014): Her debut role as Jola.
Movies
- Dead Serious (2024): Featuring alongside Sabinus, Nkem Owoh, and Deyemi Okanlawon.
- Glamour Girls (2022): Playing Emma alongside Nse Ikpe Etim and Toke Makinwa.
- Still Falling (2021): As Bono Kuku, sharing the screen with Daniel Etim Effiong.
- Kambili: The Whole 30 Yards (2020): Starring as Linda with Nancy Isime and Toyin Abraham.
- Òlòtūré (2019): A powerful performance in a critically acclaimed film.
Recognition and Awards
Sharon's contributions to Nollywood have not gone unnoticed. She has received several nominations, including:
- Best of Nollywood Awards (2019): Nominated for Revelation of the Year – Female.
- Best of Nollywood Awards (2020): Nominated for Best Supporting Actress – English for her role in Bling Lagosians and Best Kiss in a Movie.
- Net Honours (2021): Nominated for Most Popular Actress.
- In 2020, she was listed as a top female celebrity and is recognized as a Nollywood actress to watch out for in 2024.
In March 2024, Sharon announced her private civil wedding ceremony to her husband, Ugo Nwoke, whom she affectionately calls "odogwu silencer." The couple also celebrated their union with a traditional wedding and a church (white) wedding, marking a significant milestone in her personal life. She expressed her joy and gratitude in a heartfelt post on social media, describing her husband as her best friend and a calming presence in her life.
Sharon's Impact and Legacy
Sharon Ooja's journey from a young girl in Kaduna to a celebrated actress in Nollywood is a testament to her resilience and passion. She continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her dynamic performances, breaking stereotypes and bringing diverse characters to life.
Her story is not just about personal success but also about contributing to the growth and recognition of Nigerian cinema on a global stage. Sharon Ooja remains a beacon of talent and dedication, proving that with hard work and a bit of luck, dreams can indeed come true.
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