Selassie Ibrahim brings years of experience and authority to bear wherever she goes.
With over three decades in front of and behind the camera, combined with strong business insight, she has become a key figure in African cinema.
This influence is further strengthened by her current role as Executive Director of the Regal Film Festival and Awards (REFFA).
Beyond acting, Mrs Ibrahim is a filmmaker, entrepreneur, and advocate who is actively contributing to the growth of the African film industry.
This became evident when REFFA held its maiden awards night on December 13, 2025, marking a major milestone for the continental festival she envisioned.
Journey
Selassie began her film career in the 1990s with her debut in the movie My Sweetie, where she acted alongside well-known Ghanaian film icons. The role introduced her as a disciplined and committed actress and opened doors to further opportunities in the industry.
Rather than limit herself to acting, she identified the business and structural gaps within the industry and chose to expand her role. She stepped into entrepreneurship to better understand and influence the production side of filmmaking.
In 2009, she released her first feature film, The CEO, produced under her company, Smarttys Management and Production. This was followed by two series, Entrapped and The Miser.
She also produced and hosted two television talk shows, What Men Like and Smart People, serving as both host and executive producer.
Smarttys Management and Production operates across film production, advertising, documentaries, corporate events, and public relations, reflecting her focus on building a sustainable and diversified creative business.
“Once you are in an industry, you have to upgrade yourself. It has been my dream to have my own production company because we, as actresses, can also create employment and give others the opportunity to showcase their talents,” she says.
Advocacy
Selassie Ibrahim is vocal about the challenges facing the Ghanaian film industry.
She has openly criticised inadequate support systems and unfair pricing structures, particularly from local television stations, which she believes undermine filmmakers and threaten the industry’s survival.
This commitment to the welfare of filmmakers is the driving force behind REFFA, conceived 10 years ago.
She also intends to foster collaborations and continental unity, which is key in achieving success in every industry and sector which wants to see growth.
As Executive Director, she positions REFFA as more than an awards ceremony. Her goal is to create a credible platform that recognises quality African storytelling and technical excellence in African and Diaspora films, while also encouraging collaboration across the continent.
Support for vulnerable
In addition to her work in film, Mrs Ibrahim serves as Executive Director of Jabneel Impact, a non-governmental organisation focused on providing sustainable livelihood opportunities for vulnerable groups.
Through this initiative, she has supported employment and skills development for many young people in Ghana.
This aspect of her work reflects her belief that success should extend beyond personal achievement and contribute to community development.
Selassie‘s career reflects a practical approach to creative leadership: an actress who moved into production, a businesswoman building opportunities, and an advocate working toward a stronger African film industry.
Source:
www.graphic.com.gh
