Aba Arthur, a multi-talented actor with a diverse skill set, has garnered significant recognition in the entertainment industry. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in the Performing Arts, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from The University of Colorado-Boulder, Aba has demonstrated her exceptional talent on both stage and screen. Her captivating performances in plays like “Proof,” “For Colored Girls…,” and her original one-woman show “Landing in Love” have left a lasting impact on audiences.

In 2022, Aba Arthur joined the cast of the highly anticipated film “Wakanda Forever,” the sequel to “Black Panther.” This milestone in her career further solidifies her position as a rising star in the entertainment world. Adding to her list of accomplishments, Aba is also set to grace the screen as Abena in the upcoming musical adaptation of “The Color Purple.” This exciting opportunity showcases Aba’s remarkable abilities and underscores her rising prominence in the world of performing arts.

Alongside her acting prowess, Aba’s visionary spirit has led her to establish The Ohemaa Project, a venture dedicated to amplifying diverse narratives and empowering underrepresented voices in the industry. With the support and admiration of influential figures like Oprah Winfrey, Aba’s journey as a trailblazer in storytelling continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, reaffirming her commitment to excellence and advocacy for inclusivity in the arts.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Aba to discuss her journey into entrepreneurship, the entertainment industry, and current projects:

Take us back to growing up in Washington D.C., How did it shape your journey and where you are now in entrepreneurship? 

My time in DC was unfortunately so short! I was born there, and right after birth, my parents moved back to Ghana. We returned to the United States when I was in elementary school and landed in good ol’ Colorado Springs, CO. That transition shaped me in ways I could not have possibly grasped as a child. I have learned how to be and stay myself in any fluctuating environment. I have been fortunate to spend time with a wide variety of people, which of course also reflects in entrepreneurship and my current business ventures.

Growing up with your sister, Bozoma St. John, did you always have a shared interest in the arts and entertainment industry, How has she influenced your artistry?

Ah, yes, we grew up with a shared love of pop culture. My father was insistent on us staying up to speed with the latest Michael Jackson or Madonna record. In hindsight, I can see how he infused his four daughters with his love of the arts, and how that has stayed with us all. I have always appreciated Bozoma’s tenacity. A badass queen indeed!

Moving to Los Angeles to pursue your career, can you highlight some memorable experiences working on Netflix’s Cobra Kai and Legacies, among other shows?

With every single set I am fortunate to work on, I learn some great lessons. On Cobra Kai, I saw a level of professionalism and efficiency from the cast and crew that I was incredibly impressed by. On Legacies, I had my first experience with scar makeup! It was frighteningly realistic. I had a scene with Forest Whitaker while working on Respect. What an honor! He was kind, gracious, wise, and TALENTED. Boomerang was the first TV show that I appeared in, which was directed by a Black Woman. David Makes Man allowed me the opportunity to really connect with my incredible scene partner on camera. Our script was deep and thoughtful. Such a great experience… and so many more memorable experiences that I could go on for days!

Being part of the film “Respect,” a biopic of Aretha Franklin, must have been a significant experience. Can you share some insights into your role and the overall impact of the film?

Yes! I play Miss Gold. In the script, it was suggested that she had an affair with Aretha Franklin’s father, played by the incredible Forest Whitaker. Unfortunately, my scene was cut! We actors are used to this, as sometimes this happens in the editing room to save time or to more efficiently tell a story. Jennifer Hudson was phenomenal. I watched her perform her musical numbers take after take after take, and somehow seemed to get better each time. It felt like the earth was moving when she would start to sing. What a gift. Our director, Liesl Tommy, was such a gracious and knowledgeable leader. I am so grateful to have been a part of a project which enlightened us on the life of the legend, Aretha Franklin.

Tell us more about your production company, The Ohemaa Project. What motivated you to start your own production company, and what projects are you currently working on?

Gladly! Ohemaa means queen in my language, Fante. I wanted everyone who sees or experiences our projects to be reminded of the regality that we are all born with. I started this company because there were important conversations that I was having in my circles that I was not seeing reflected in film and television. I write for my friends and family, which inevitably resonates with a larger audience. Entertainment has the opportunity to educate through empathy. That is a very important goal for me. I have many shows and films in the vault that I cannot wait to share with you all!

Being based in both Atlanta and Los Angeles for projects, how do you manage to balance your time effectively between the two cities?

I am still figuring that out—haha. I go where the work is. The people close to me know that when I am coming to a city, it means I am cooking up something nearby! I stay grateful that I have built a life that allows me to transition this frequently and fluidly.

You produced and directed your first film, “The Womb,” in 2018. What inspired you to step into the role of a filmmaker, and how has this experience influenced your perspective as an artist?

I wrote “The Womb” because I was having the same conversations over and over with most of the women close to me. The topic of reproduction and the pressures to have children or have more children start to ramp up at a certain age. I wanted to see a narrative reflective of the difficulties that we face as women with wombs, and then to discuss resolutions. It influenced my perspective as an artist because anytime you step into a leadership role, I believe you should learn to experience empathy for every role you lead in order to complete the project successfully.

Can you share any upcoming projects or goals you have for your production company?

Yes! We will be hosting a private screening, red carpet, and talkback for “The Color Purple” coming up in Denver! This is very important to me as I am wholly invested in the future of the arts in Colorado. I imagine there is another young lady or gentleman with a passion for creativity who needs to see that it is possible. After that, we will have more arts events around the country, then to Ghana, and then around the globe!

Every career path has its challenges. Can you share some hurdles you’ve faced in the entertainment industry and how you overcame them?

So many challenges in this industry… but there is one that is the greatest of them all. As a professional performance artist, you are constantly facing rejection. It is just a part of the job. You will be told many no’s. You have to develop a thick skin by reminding yourself that a no does not speak to your sufficient contribution as an artist. I encourage myself, pray, meditate, and realign… then try again. Your biggest challenge becomes empowering your own inner voice in a sea of noise.

As you continue to make your mark in the entertainment world, what kind of legacy do you hope to leave?

Wow! I pray that at the end of my life, I can make my ancestors, future generations, and God proud of the woman that I was on Earth.

What is your definition of a Pretty Woman Who Hustles? 

We stay fly. Cry – sweat – scream – shake it all off, then use your talents to take over your world.

You are currently gearing up for the world release of “The Color Purple” . Can you share a little about your role as Abena?

So exciting! Without giving away any spoilers (for those who are not familiar with the story) I will say that I am a part of Celie’s larger family structure. The name Abena is a Ghanaian name for a Queen born on Tuesday. So much love to our iconic director Blitz Bazawule (also Ghanaian!) for infusing our culture throughout this film. I am beyond proud. 

What message do you hope women specifically take away from this film and your role specifically? 

In any way that you can, prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, as that is the only way to survive this earthly existence in one piece. Let us support each other along that journey.

What would you say has been the most memorable experience while filming this iconic movie? 

It has been a lifelong dream to meet THEE Oprah Winfrey. She spoke words of life into me that I will never forget. Getting the chance to work with her, to be directed by Blitz, to watch the magnificent performances of my cast mates- it still feels like a dream. I am ever grateful.