Life has thrown a few curveballs my way, and each one has shaped who I am today. I have encountered challenges that have forced me to question the status quo, to push beyond what’s comfortable or expected, and to carve out my own path.
As a firstborn in a Ghanaian household, growing up I often felt like I didn’t fit into the boxes that society seemed to expect of me. Whether it was the pressures of traditional career paths, cultural expectations, or the internal doubts that sometimes whispered I wasn’t good enough, these challenges have been constant companions on my journey. But rather than let them define me, I chose to see them as opportunities to redefine myself and the world around me.
Going against the grain often means facing criticism, doubt, and rejection daily. There were times when I questioned if I was doing the right thing or if I was risking too much by stepping away from a more stable, predictable career path.
My faith has been the guiding force throughout my journey. It’s my relationship with God that has given me the strength to navigate these challenges, reminding me that I’m not walking this path alone.
One of the most significant catalysts for change in my life was realising that the conventional path wasn’t for me. I studied criminal justice, which might seem worlds away from the creative industry I am in now, but that experience gave me a deep understanding of how systems work, and more importantly, how they can fail people.
I saw first-hand the limitations and inequalities in the justice system, and it sparked a desire in me to do something different, something that would allow me to challenge these norms in my own way. It was during this time that I leaned heavily on my faith, seeking God’s guidance in finding the courage to step into the unknown. My prayers led me to realise that my true calling was in storytelling, using my talents to shine a light on issues that needed attention and to bring hope and inspiration to others.
When I transitioned into acting, it wasn’t just a career change; it was a leap into the unknown, a way to express those feelings of discontent after my father’s passing and hope for something better. Acting became more than just a job; it became a ministry of sorts. I wanted to tell stories that mattered, stories that reflected the complexities of life and the struggles we all face. In many ways, acting became a form of activism for me. It’s about representing voices that are often silenced, shedding light on issues that need attention, and doing so in a way that connects with people on a deep, emotional level.
The journey hasn’t been easy. Going against the grain often means facing criticism, doubt, and rejection daily. There were times when I questioned if I was doing the right thing or if I was risking too much by stepping away from a more stable, predictable career path. My faith reminded me of why I started this journey; to challenge the norms, to push for change, and to create something meaningful that aligns with the purpose God has for my life. I never wanted to live life thinking “What if?”
One of the ways I have leveraged these experiences is by being intentional about the roles I choose and the stories I tell. I am drawn to projects that challenge stereotypes, that push boundaries, and that offer new perspectives on familiar narratives. Whether it’s a film that dives into African mythology or a series that explores the realities of being Black in a predominantly white industry, I am always looking for ways to make a positive impact through my work. But more than that, now I seek God’s wisdom in every decision, asking how I can use my platform to serve Him and uplift others.
It’s not just about my personal journey, though. I believe that by challenging the norms, we can inspire others to do the same. Representation matters, and when people see someone like them breaking barriers, it can spark a chain reaction. I have seen this in the response to some of my work, where viewers have reached out to say that seeing me on screen gave them the courage to pursue their dreams, to speak up, to wear their afro unapologetically or to challenge their own status quo. That’s the kind of impact I want to have, one that goes beyond the screen and into the real world.
Disruption isn’t just about breaking things for the sake of it; it’s about building something new in its place, something that’s more inclusive, just, and reflective of the world we want to live in.
But there’s still a lot of work to be done. In my opinion, one of the biggest improvements we need to make is in how we support and uplift underrepresented voices in every industry, especially women of colour. This means not just giving people opportunities but creating environments where they can thrive. It’s about mentorship, about breaking down systemic barriers, and about fostering a culture that values diversity in all its forms.
As a Christian, I believe it’s about showing God’s love in action—being a light in the world, advocating for justice, and challenging the narrow definitions of success and worth that have been imposed on us for too long. Love is an action word!
Looking back, there are a few milestones I am particularly proud of. Winning Best Actor at the American Black Film Festival and receiving Best Actress nominations globally have been a huge honour, not just because of the recognition, but because of what it represented. It was a validation of all the sacrifices, risks I’ve taken and the challenges I’ve faced. It was a moment that said, “You’re on the right path, I see you—keep going!”
But even more than the awards, I am proud of the moments when I’ve been able to help others, connect with people through my work, and hear that something I did or said made a difference in their lives. Those are the milestones that mean the most to me.
So, what makes me a Disruptor? I think it’s my willingness to challenge the norms and my refusal to be confined by other people’s expectations. I have never been afraid to take risks, to step outside of what’s comfortable, and to push for something better. Whether it’s through my acting, my advocacy, or just the way I live my life, I am always looking for ways to shake things up, and I am not afraid to ask those uncomfortable questions and create change. Ultimately, what drives me is my faith, knowing that I am walking in God’s purpose for my life and that He’s equipped me to have a voice and a platform to share that with.
Disruption isn’t just about breaking things for the sake of it; it’s about building something new in its place, something that’s more inclusive, just, and reflective of the world we want to live in. That’s the legacy I hope to leave behind; not just as an actress and a model, but as someone who wasn’t afraid to stand up, speak out, and make a difference, all while walking in faith and love.
Vanessa Vanderpuye is an award-winning actress, model and advocate, known for her captivating performances and her commitment to challenging norms through meaningful narratives. With a background in criminal justice and a strong foundation in her Christian faith, she uses her platform to uplift underrepresented voices and inspire positive change. Her journey from traditional career paths to the creative arts reflects her dedication to making an impact, both on-screen and in the world. Passionate about her craft and guided by her faith, she continues to push boundaries and empower others through her work.
Images provided by Vanessa Vanderpuye
Photographer: Robert Binda @RobertBinda
Hair Stylist: Hair by Jade Ldn
MUA: Tracy Grabs @Tracy_Grabs
Creative Director/Stylist: Alexis Adjei @Alexis_Adjei
Creative House: Prospr @prosprwithus
Assisting Stylist: Dara Olagbemi @BeingDara
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