Stephanie Tum is a versatile Cameroonian actress, film producer, and entrepreneur who has made a significant impact on African cinema. Born in Bamenda in 1987, she has grown from a budding actress to a leading figure in Cameroon’s film industry, known for her extensive work in acting, producing, and philanthropy. Tum is recognized for her dedication to improving the film industry and her advocacy for social causes.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Ekah Stephanie Tum Fonachi |
| Date of Birth | December 2, 1987 |
| Place of Birth | Bamenda, North West Region |
| Nationality | Cameroonian |
| State of Origin | Wum, Menchum Department |
| Partner | N/A |
| Children | Two boys and one girl |
| Occupations | Actress, Film Producer, Executive Producer, Casting Director, Model, Philanthropist, Entrepreneur |
| Net Worth | $200,000 USD (approx. 112 million FCFA) |
Early Life and Education
Tum hails from the town of Wum in Cameroon’s North West Region. She pursued her education with a focus on business and management, earning a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Accounting and Business Management from the University of Buea.
She also completed a Diploma in Computer Studies from Trustech Institute of Technology in Buea. This educational background has influenced her approach to managing her career and business ventures.
Career
Stephanie Tum began her acting career in 2009 but took a break due to family commitments. She returned to the screen in 2013 with a role in the film “Viri,” marking a renewed commitment to acting. Over the years, she has featured in numerous films including “Pink Poison,” “Shrill,” “Little Cindy,” and “The Planters Plantation,” making her a household name in Cameroonian cinema.
In 2017, Tum shifted focus to film production, founding EMBI Productions. Her debut production, “Saving Mbango,” shot under challenging conditions, helped elevate the Cameroonian film industry’s standing. She balances her roles as an actress, producer, and businesswoman, strategically building her brand through diverse film projects and entrepreneurial ventures.
Beyond film, Tum has launched EMBI Foundation, which provides sanitary pads to young girls in Cameroon to support their education, and EMBI Glow Cosmetics, a skincare line that addresses the beauty needs of her audience.
Personal Life
Stephanie Tum is a mother of three children: two boys and one girl. She became a mother at a young age and credits this experience for shaping her perseverance and multitasking abilities.
While she is open about her role as a parent, she keeps her romantic relationship private to protect her family’s privacy. Tum is known for her straightforward and authentic personality, staying true to her values in both personal and professional spheres.
Net Worth
Stephanie Tum’s estimated net worth is around $200,000 USD, accumulated through her acting career, film production, and business endeavors. She reinvests much of her earnings into film productions and her business ventures, striving to build sustainable success.
Filmography
- Pink Poison (2012)
- Viri (2013)
- Shrill (2017)
- Little Cindy (2017)
- Saving Mbango (2019, Producer)
- The Planters Plantation (2022)
- Love Trap (2022)
- Silent Storm (2023)
- When the Levees Broke (2023)
- Married to Myself (2024)
- Deadline for Love (2025)
- Shadows and Sunlight (2025)
- Beneath the Cloak (2025)
- Heartstrings (2025)
- Fifteen Wives (Post-production)
Awards and Nominations
Stephanie Tum has been recognized at major African film festivals and award ceremonies. Highlights include winning the Jury Prize at the Ecrans Noirs Film Festival 2020 for “Saving Mbango” and receiving Best Feature Film awards from various international bodies.
She has also been named among the most influential Cameroonian entertainers and received accolades for her mental health awareness campaigns.
