Biographie
Cameroonian-born actress and writer Sahndra Fon Dufe (pronounced Saa'ndrah Fon-du-fey) is renowned for creating the Yefon Trilogy, which tells the story of an illiterate village girl who ignites a literary revolution in Central Africa during the 1960s. The trilogy is set to debut on the big screen in 2015, with Fon Dufe starring in the lead role. The upcoming film will feature actors such as Isaiah Washington, Adriana Barazza, Jimmy Jean Louis, Hakeem Kae-Kazim, Leleti Khumalo, Uti Nwachukwu, and others. It will also include original music by seven-time Grammy nominee Kelly Price and involvement from executives at Focus Features.
Fon Dufe has gained recognition for her outstanding performances in major international Nollywood films, including Frank Rajah's "Refugees" alongside Yvonne Nelson; "One Night in Vegas" with Jimmy Jean Louis, Michael Blackson, Van Vicker, Sarodj Bertin, John Dumelo, and Yvonne Nelson; "Unconditional Love" featuring John Dumelo; as well as roles in "Lost in Abroad," "Standing The Rain," "Two Princes," "The Successor of Katunga," and "Bad Accent."
Born on October 28, 1989, in Bamenda, Cameroon, Fon Dufe grew up with her two brothers, Glenn and Serge, cousin Vanessa, foster brother Gideon (RIP), and her parents, Dr. Lydia and Colonel Gilbert Fondufe.
Nicknamed "sandy mama," "sandiri," or "sku" by friends and family, Fon Dufe relocated to Los Angeles at the end of 2010 to advance her acting career after appearing in several local Cameroonian films and theater productions. Before acting, she was a professional dancer, sorority president, law student, writer, and student journalist.
Her most notable role to date is that of "Mildred" in the award-winning film "One Night in Vegas." Her acting journey began at 17 during her first year at the University of Buea in Cameroon, where she studied law and appeared on a local film set. After securing minor roles, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams further. Upon arrival, she was cast in the Nollywood film "Lost in Abroad" and short films such as "Standing Tall" and "Bad Accent."
Fon Dufe's breakthrough came with her portrayal of Mildred in "One Night in Vegas," earning her industry respect and leading to further roles, including the lead as Kwuni in "Unconditional Love" (2013) and Yurika in "Refugees" (2014).
She has also appeared in "Black November," "The Successor of Katunga," and "Lost in Abroad."
An author, actress, humanitarian, and entrepreneur, Fon Dufe is a driven woman on a mission. At just 22 years old, she founded her own production company, African Pictures International, dedicated to showcasing Africa’s history, culture, and truth, as well as the strength of women and spirit.
Trained in the Meisner technique and a graduate of the New York Film Academy, Fon Dufe has evolved from entertaining family, friends, and classmates to captivating audiences worldwide.
She collaborated with the American Embassy in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and two other organizations to launch the "Know Our Craft" international workshop, aimed at training artists across Africa. Additionally, she appears in a TV commercial for the American Cancer Society alongside Jeri Ryan from "Body of Lies."
Currently residing in Los Angeles, Fon Dufe has a fondness for rescued kittens and antique Egyptian furniture, both of which fill her home abundantly.
