Let’s be honest: African women hit differently. There’s an entrepreneurial spirit that seems to run through their very DNA.
Cameroonian actress Chantal Nchako is a prime example. She’s best known for her breakout leading role in the SXSW Grand Jury Prize-winning short film “Beast,” which also won her Best Actress at the Queen Palm International Film Festival. She caught the eye of Hollywood and has appeared in the new series “Diarra From Detroit” (BET+) and will next be seen in the Netflix film “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” (on July 3).
Stepping into excellence from an early age, Nchako attended USC on a full scholarship and after graduation, was selected to receive the Ava Greenwald Memorial Scholarship for outstanding MFA Actor at USC.
As the first USC MFA student to be accepted into the Williamstown Theatre Festival’s Professional Training Program, where she played the lead role of Ella in Sam Shepard’s “Curse of a Starving Class.” Her other credits include “Madam Secretary” and major roles in films such as “Distant Tales” and “Our Deadly Vows,” both of which are currently streaming on Amazon Prime.
Now to her second stream of income. Nchako is the founder and designer of Choobiz (www.choobizllc.com), a luxury, handcrafted vegan and cruelty-free shoe line made in Italy. Fluent in English, French, and Italian, Nchako is living her best life by spending time between Italy and the U.S.; she is a resident faculty member at the Silva Arte e Danza, a musical theater academy in Siracusa, Italy.
In her free time, she enjoys skiing, equestrian sports, writing, traveling, and being a cat mom to Lucky, her feline companion.
Here is what Chantal Nchako, actress and shoe designer, had to say about working and living in America.
New York Amsterdam News: It’s often said that growing up in an African home (in the U.S.) is very different from growing up in an African American home. Do you agree or disagree? If so, why?
CHANTAL NCHAKO: I’m neutral on this question. My family represents a true mix of cultures, with roots from various places. We’re like a mini-United Nations when we gather. One notable difference I’ve noticed is that African children tend to stay home well after the age of 18, due to ample familial support, fostering a sense of protection and love.
AMN: I love that answer. Question: What does it mean to be Cameroonian?
CN: Being Cameroonian means having a culture and heritage for support. Unlike the individualistic American culture, Cameroonian culture is collective, emphasizing community support and love in times of need. In America, high wealth and social status are prized, while in Cameroon, family and community hold the utmost importance, promoting harmony and unity. Italy also prioritizes collective values within its culture.
AMN: Let’s step into the phonetic spelling of your name.
CN: Chantal is pronounced Shaun-TAL. My last name, Nchako, is pronounced Ng-chako.
AMN: Let’s talk a little bit about “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” (Netflix on July 3). Is it a big role? Can you describe your character?
CN: My role in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” will be my breakout moment. I’ve played dramatic roles, but everyone says I have a knack for comedy. Being part of this iconic franchise, alongside an actor I’ve long admired, is thrilling. My character, a parking enforcement officer, shares a scene with Eddie Murphy’s character, Axel Foley, showcasing my comedic talent. It’s a significant opportunity for me!
AMN: I love it! Let’s talk about diversification. You are also the founder and designer of Choobiz…How did that start, and where is it going?
CN: I launched my shoe line during the pandemic, and it’s thriving. With two styles currently available, I envision expanding the collection over time. Choobiz is an exclusive brand, and I intend to maintain that exclusivity.
