Clara Onyinyechukwu Mariano Moneke, a 24-year-old Nigerian-Igbo actress, is making Nigeria proud in Brazil. Born in Brazil to a Nigerian father , Chiedu Ajelenje Moneke and a Brazilian mother , Marilene Pereira Mariano who passed away four years ago, Clara is winning hearts with her talent on the Brazilian screen
A devotee of Yoruba traditional religion in Brazil, Clara proudly identifies herself as adherent of Òrisà Ogun, the Yoruba deity of Justice.
Having achieved success in the Brazilian soap opera “Vai na Fé,” where she portrays the character Kate Cristina, Clara Moneke recently gave an exclusive interview to “Fantástico,” sharing her journey and the inspiration she brings to many young girls. Her career started at a cultural arena in Campo Grande, Rio de Janeiro, after watching a theater play with her mother and sister.
“The strong, irreverent, and humorous character of Kate has been an inspiration to many” Clara relates her character in the soup opera
Reflecting on her humble beginnings, Clara expressed, “I’m very proud to have started in a free theater course in Campo Grande , it reaffirms a lot about Brazilian culture and the opportunities.” Besides theater, she has also explored experimental audiovisual projects and acted in English in the series “Arcanjo Renegado” on Globoplay.
Born in São Paulo and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Clara Moneke comes from a family of strong and inspiring black women.
Clara’s journey into the Brazilian television industry began when she was discovered by Brazilian rapper , Marcelo D2 during a time when she felt disillusioned with the entertainment industry. Her talent caught the attention of the directors of the Global production of “Vai na Fé,” earning her a role as the character Kate.
She was among the last actresses to be a character in the soap opera on Globo Television , and her audition garnered high praise from the directors. Her portrayal of Kate, a young woman from the suburbs of Rio de Janeiro and the opposite of her best friend Jenifer (Bella Campos), made her one of the most beloved characters in the series.
Clara’s artistic journey is marked by dedication and passion. She studied theater from a young age, taking courses in costume design and clowning.
After ten years of artistic dedication, she decided to pursue her passion fully, enrolling in Hotel Management at the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro in Seropédica. However, her love for art eventually led her back to the acting world.
In addition to her successful television career, Clara has also ventured into the film industry, with appearances in the film “Eu Sou Maria,” directed by Clara Linhart and written by Sônia Rodrigues. Furthermore, she will be featured in the upcoming film “Nosso Sonho,” depicting the life of the iconic Brazilian duo Claudinho & Buchecha.
Clara Moneke’s talent and passion have garnered her widespread acclaim and admiration from fans. She continues to share empowering messages on social media, inspiring and uplifting other young black individuals.
Clara’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to success in Brazilian television serves as an inspiration to many, proving that talent, dedication, and a strong sense of identity can lead to triumphs in the world of entertainment.
Clara Onyinyechukwu Mariano Moneke, better known as Clara Moneke, is also a model , she has combined modelling along with her acting career. Clara is a proud devotee of Candomble , a version of Yoruba traditional religion in Brazil , she has been initiated into several cults in the Orisa religion
” My mother was an activist and adherent of Orisa religion , she led me to knowing the religion of my ancestors “ Clara said
Clara Moneke’s passion for the arts was quite evident from her young age as she started studying Theater at the tender age of seven.
During her teenage years, she honed her skills by taking courses in costume design and clowning. Notably, her talent caught the attention of Marcelo D2, who invited her to audition for the Prime Video series “Amar é para os fortes” (Love is for the strong). Clara’s exceptional performance secured her a spot in the cast, and she actively participated in the filming in 2022.
Clara Moneke’s versatility as an actress was evident when she portrayed Aissa Mwale in the Globoplay series “Arcanjo Renegado” and later took on the role of Kate Cristina Ramos (Katelícia/Kátia) in the soap opera “Vai na Fé.” The success of her character, Kate, led to her reprising the role in the series “Encantado’s” on Globoplay.
Continuing to make her mark in the industry, Clara Moneke depicted Vanessa in the biographical drama “Nosso Sonho” (Our Dream) in 2023. Additionally, she is set to appear in the movie “Eu Sou Maria” (I Am Maria).
Beyond her professional achievements, Clara Moneke’s personal life has also garnered attention. She is currently in a relationship with Tácio Fidelis.
Despite facing personal challenges, including the passing of her mother due to a stroke in 2020, Clara Moneke remains an influential figure in the entertainment world, leaving audiences eager to witness her future endeavors.
