Biography
Oliver O. Mbamara - Attorney, Filmmaker, Writer, & Poet.
Background and Legal Career: Oliver O. Mbamara started writing and acting while pursuing a legal career in Nigeria before moving to the United States where he became a State Admin Law Judge, a position in which he has served for over twenty-four years. Simultaneously, during this period he continued to serve through several community and professional organizations including the Nigerian Lawyers Association (USA) where he served in various capacities including as the chairman of the board of directors. He currently serves as the President of the Nollywood Producers Guild USA, an association of filmmakers from Africa blazing the trail, building bridges, and creating opportunities for African artists and content producers in African film and theater in Diaspora.
Writing, Filmmaking, & Artistic Career: Mbamara continued his writing and artistic career in the USA and has published a number of books on Poetry and Africa-themed essays. In 2001, he broke into American theater and entertainment circles with his leading role in Professor Chudi’s off-Broadway show, PRISONER OF KALAKIRI. He then returned to the big screen where he became one of the pioneering Nollywood filmmakers in the USA when he teamed with colleagues to make the ground-breaking Nollywood film titled THIS AMERICA (2004) adapted from his novel,
CONFLICTS OF AN IMMIGRANT which chronicled the experiences of an African immigrant in America. He has since scripted, produced, directed, and/or acted in leading roles in several feature films including SLAVE WARRIOR , SPADE – THE LAST ASSIGNMENT, ON THE RUN AGAIN, and THE RETURN OF SPADE. To broaden and sharpen his talent as a filmmaker he attended and graduated from the New York Film Academy where he studied Filmmaking. His latest film, ADOPTED is in post production and due for release soon. Mbamara has just completed the screenplay for his epic novel, titled DAYS OF OUR ANCESTORS: A Moonlight Tale, which looks at life in a pre-colonial African community. One of his latest works, the classic comedy drama series THE OZOBIO CHRONICLES which he created, wrote, and directed has been streaming on his Youtube Channel @OliverMbamara333. His latest book, GATES OF TANGLED LEAVES: An Experience of The Afterlife, is about to be released.
Publishing, Poetry, & Motivational Speaking: As a freelance columnist, Mbamara regularly writes for media outlets and he is the publisher of two online magazines, www.Africanevents.com and www.ExpressionsofSoul.com . He recently published a collection of African short stories titled AFRICAN TALES UNDER THE MOONLIGHT. Mbamara continues to write and serve as a poet, motivational speaker, and commentator on issues of life, living, and spirituality. He has delivered various papers at various public forums and conferences up to the United Nations.
Awards & Recognition: Hon. Mbamara has been recognized for his achievements in various fields including: The 2017 Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award by the Board of MARQUIS WHO’S WHO.” The 2015 LANFA Legendary Movie Achievement Award USA. The 2014 Nigeria Centenary Achievement Award (NCAA) USA. The 2013 Nigerian Sports & Cultural Award for “Contributions to the Nigerian Movie Industry.” The 2012 GRIOTS Film Festival Recognition For “Dedication & Commitment to African Cinema.” The 2012 Nations of Pan Africa Best Movie Director Award. The 2012 NAFCA Best Cinematography Award. The 2011 Nollywood USA “Legendary Achievement Award.” The 2011 Nigerian Promoters Association (USA) “Best Movie Producer of the Year Award.” The 2008 Afro Heritage Immigrant Award. The 2008 Afro-Hollywood USA Legendary Award. The 2002 – International Poet of Merit Award, among others.
For more on Oliver please visit www.OliverMbamara.com