Lupita Nyong'o

Lupita Amondi Nyong'o (born March 1, 1983) is a Kenyan-Mexican actress, author, and model who has emerged as one of the most talented and influential performers in contemporary cinema. Born in Mexico City and raised in Kenya, Nyong'o trained at the Yale School of Drama and began her career in Kenyan theatre before transitioning to film. Her breakthrough came with her portrayal of Patsey in Steve McQueen's "12 Years a Slave" (2013), for which she won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at age 30, becoming the first Kenyan-born actress to win an Oscar. Following this success, she has appeared in major film franchises including the Black Panther films, where she played Nakia, establishing herself as a prominent figure in blockbuster cinema. Beyond acting, Nyong'o is an accomplished author, having written a memoir titled "Longer Than a Tweet" that addresses issues of colorism and identity. She is also a vocal advocate for racial justice, gender equality, and environmental conservation. Nyong'o's achievements have made her a role model for aspiring actors from underrepresented backgrounds and a significant cultural figure in contemporary Hollywood.