By BENJAMIN NJOKU

Stephanie Isuma, popularly known as Calabar Chic, is a talented skit maker, comedienne, and actress who has taken the entertainment industry by storm.

Her journey to stardom began with a 15-second video she posted on Instagram in 2016, showcasing her Ibibio-Efik accents and humour.

From obscurity to fame

Before the viral video, Isuma was relatively unknown in the entertainment industry. However, after posting the video, she gained instant recognition and became a formidable force in comedy and skit making. The video’s success was unexpected, but it marked the beginning of her career as a skit maker and comedienne.

The birth of Calabar Chic

Isuma adopted the brand name “Calabar Chic” after people started nicknaming her “Calabar girl” due to her accents and humor in the video. She realized her personality and sense of humour could entertain people, and she began creating skits and posting them on Instagram.” I recorded that video with my younger brother, where I spoke in a very funny Ibibio-Efik accents. I didn’t realize that many people would love the video as they resonated with it.

“That was when I decided to go with the brand name, Calabar Chic  because people have already nicknamed me Calabar girl. That was also when I realized that my personality and sense of humour could entertain people. From that moment, I started making skits and posting them on Instagram. That was how I adapted the brand name, Calabar Chic,” Isuma recalled.

An accidental skit maker

Although Isuma started acting before creating comedy content, she became a skit maker by accident. She had always wanted to be a TV/Radio presenter and talk show host, having studied Mass Communication in university. However, financial reasons led her to pursue acting and comedy instead. Her performances and content often blend humour with relatability, showcasing her natural talent.

A rising star

Isuma has featured in several films and TV series, including notable projects on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Showmax, and Netflix. Her latest project, “Area Command,” directed by Lancelot Imasuen, is gaining attention across social media and streaming platforms. As Calabar Chic continues to thrive in the entertainment industry, her unique blend of humor and relatability has endeared her to audiences.