Somkele Iyanmah also known as Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama, born on March 23, 1988, is a Nigerian actress and model who has gained recognition for her appearances in various films and TV series, including 93 Days, The Wedding Party, and The Arbitration. She has also starred in the popular TV show Gidi Up and has represented Multichoice’s DSTV Explora. Furthermore, she is set to appear in the upcoming film A Soldier’s Story 2 and has been cast as the Progenitor in the final episodes of Star Trek Discovery.
Profile Summary
| Full Name: | Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama |
| Date Of Birth: | March 23, 1988 |
| Place Of Birth: | Ika South, Delta, Nigeria |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Spouse: | Aaron Idhalama |
| Occupation(s): | Actress, Model |
| Net Worth: | $700,000 |
Early Life And Education
Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama was born in the Ika South Area of Delta State to parents Andrew and Onyi Iyamah, both of Ika (Agbor) descent.Â
Growing up as the third child out of four siblings, she discovered her passion for dance and drama under the mentorship of her inspiring teacher, Mrs. Abe, while studying at Grange School in Lagos.
After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from McMaster University, Somkele actively participated in charitable shows during her time at McMaster and also pursued a modeling career during her holidays in Nigeria.Â
Career
After impressing at her initial audition, Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama quickly established herself as a lead actress.Â
In the world of television, she has left her mark with standout performances in acclaimed series like ‘GIDI UP’ by NdaniTV, as well as in shows such as Amazon’s ‘THE EXPANSE’ and CBC’s ‘CORONER’.Â
Transitioning to the big screen, she has collaborated with notable Nollywood directors including Steve Gukas and Kemi Adetiba, and even shared a scene with Hollywood legend Danny Glover in the gripping biopic ’93 DAYS’, where she portrayed a courageous doctor who faced the Ebola crisis in Nigeria.Â
This role earned her numerous accolades, including an ELOY award for Best Actress, an AMVCA nomination for Best Supporting Actress, a prestigious AMVCA Trailblazer Award, recognition at the TFAA ceremony, an AMAA nomination, and an AFRIFF Jury Award.
In addition to her acting prowess, Somkele has secured corporate endorsements from industry giants like Multichoice Nigeria (as a DSTV Ambassador) and Jewel By Lisa.Â
Her profile as a fashion icon has also been underscored by her role as Regional Head of the renowned brand Andrea Iyamah.Â
Furthermore, she graced the cover of GENEVIEVE Magazine, was featured in a special edition by her alma mater McMaster University for Canada’s 150th anniversary, and even caught the attention of CNN online with her compelling story.Â
Always expanding her horizons, she continues to captivate audiences and excel both on and off the screen.
Personal Life
Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama plays a pivotal role at Andrea Iyamah, a fashion label established by her sister, Dumebi Iyamah.Â
She is happily married to Captain Aaron Idhalama, a respected figure in the Nigerian aviation industry. Their son bravely battled and overcame cancer, inspiring hope and resilience in their family.
Somkele Iyamah Net Worth
Somkele Iyamah is a powerful presence in the Nigerian entertainment industry, recognized as one of the wealthiest and most influential figures with an estimated net worth of around $700,000.
Awards And Nominations
2016
- Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) International Rising Star – Won
- Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) Special Jury Recognition Award for 93 Days – Won
- The Exquisite Lady Of The Year (ELOY) Awards Actress Of The Year Won
- The Future Awards Africa Prize For Actor – Won
- Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) Best Supporting Actress – Nominated
2017
Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards Best Supporting Actress – Nominated
Trailblazer Award for Herself
Filmography
Film
Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama has showcased her acting prowess in a variety of films over the years:
- Dreamwalker as Isabella (2013)
- The Department as Ireti (2015)
- The Arbitration as Omawumi Horsefall (2016)
- The Wedding Party as Yemisi Disu (2016)
- 93 Days as Dr. Ada Igonoh (2016)
- The Wedding Party 2 as Yemisi Disu (2017)
- Lara and the Beat as Dara Giwa (2018)
- A Soldier’s Story: Return from the Dead as Zaya (2020)
- Orah as Lace (2023)
Television
On the small screen, Somkele Iyamah-Idhalama has appeared in various TV shows:
- The Expanse as Engineer (2020)
- Coroner as Mrs. Kamau (2018)
- Gidi Up Season 2 as Yvonne (2014)
- Best Friends as Uche (2015)
- Gidi Up Season 1 as Yvonne (2013)
- Gidi Up (Pilot) as Yvonne (2013)
- Star Trek: Discovery as Progenitor (2024)