Adu Sarfoaah: From the streets to family hero

If there is any phrase that can best describe the story of actress Adu Safoaah, then it has to be ‘ the stone the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone’.

After years of living on the streets, Adu is an inspiration to the very people who sought to bring her down.

“At the age of 16, I was thrown out of the house by my wealthy father and my step-mother. I lived on bread and water for six months because I told myself I did not want to sell my body to make money.

“ I rather took to the streets of Accra to sell second hand clothes to make a living for almost five years,” she told Showbiz.

“The journey has not been easy, I went through hell, I had to work to take care of myself and my mother. I was born out of wedlock and I suffered the consequences. I was thrown out of my father’s house but today, I have become his favourite,” she went on.

Adu said she now plays a major role in decision making in the family and she is an example that her half siblings want to follow.

“The interesting thing about life is that, time changes and you have to be careful how you treat others when you are doing well. My father at that time was wealthy but today he is not and I am in charge. My siblings now look at me as their role model.”

In the last one year, the Cheaters actress has become a brand ambassador for Adonko Bitters, Diamond Beauty Soap and ZAFAA Global Awards /UK/Nigeria .

She attributes her success to God. “During those hard times, the only one I turned to was God. People called me names. It was bad but I thank God for everything. I’m a staunch member of MOGPA and I don’t joke with my prayers, I respect God, I read the Bible and practice what it says.”

She may have been strong in not giving up when she endured rough times but Adu is yet to deal with her weakness which is talking too much.

“One thing I am not comfortable with about myself and I am currently working on is the fact that I am a talkative. I used to talk a lot; told people everything, like my next move, my plans, what I want to do and how I want to do it. I did things anyhow but gradually I am getting better. Now I listen more and I’m careful who I approach and what I say,” she told Showbiz.

For how far she’s come in curbing this habit, Adu credits her boyfriend who she won’t name. “ I met my guy seven months ago and he has done a great job in helping me with that weakness.

“ When I go wrong, he admonishes me. He has given me books to read on how to curtail the urge to always talk.”

She hasn’t been in the industry long but has about 15 movies to her credit including Church Sex, Love and Cheat, Cheaters, House of Gold, Shoki, Contract, Today’s Woman among others.

She has some advice for up and coming actresses. “No matter what you go through, do not forget that God has not given up on you yet. Do not try to get wealth or fame from other sources because God is the ultimate.

“ People may call you names and mock you but remember these same people will one day hail you for a job well done,” she added.