PHOTOGRAPHY BY REBECCA REID
Meet Sedem Ama, a formidable boxer whose journey from balancing a successful PR career outside the ring, to honing the skills of an undefeated champion inside the ring, exemplifies female strength, power, and resilience. Known for both her tenacity and unwavering dedication to her craft, Sedem embodies the spirit of perseverance and creativity.
In this exclusive feature, Sedem shares her insights on the intersection between sport and fashion, and how her experiences in the boxing world have influenced her sense of style.
Can you tell us about your journey into boxing and where and when it started?
I was working long hours in the office and endless meetings entertaining clients. A colleague encouraged a few of us to attend the nearby gym to do some classes so we had an outlet that took us out of the work environment. I decided to do a boxing class and it was history from there.
Were you interested in sport as a child?
I was. I started off in a swimming squad and then spent some time practicing Tae Kwon Do which was a nice addition to schedule which mainly involved performing arts at the time.
You amazingly manage to balance a demanding full-time job as a Group Account Director for a London PR firm, with a rigorous boxing training program – how do you juggle these two very different roles?
I stay disciplined and ensure I have a routine in place. It’s down the details for me, such as packing my bag the night before, doing my food prep over the weekends – anything that eases my schedule.
Who were your role models growing up, and how did they influence your career?
When I was younger, I looked to people that I could relate to. Figures like Serena Williams as she was from a hard-working black household and she went on to accomplish so much not just in the sport of tennis, but also as a mother and wife.
Can you share your views on why it is essential for young black female athletes to see themselves represented in professional sports?
Many of us search for people that you can relate to. Of course, you can be inspired by anyone but having strong black females that are doing incredible things, it enables the next generation to also follow in those footsteps and eventually create their own legacy.
What does female strength mean to you, both in and out of the ring?
It means embodying your feminine attributes of power, poise and perseverance. There’s a lot that women face and it makes us resilient.
Can you share any challenges you’ve faced as a female boxer and how you’ve overcome them?
Boxing, like many other sports is very male dominated. Since I started boxing in the amateur system, I was one of the only girls which made me learn how to hold my own within my team. I was never afraid or concerned but being around males really encouraged me to work hard, as my competitive nature meant I was always trying to outdo them.
How do you stay motivated and maintain your undefeated record?
Knowing that there’s so many more levels to unlock. Although I was an undefeated amateur champion, the professional ranks is a different chapter and the pool of women continues to grow each year so I have to keep learning, keep improving and keep motivated to the best I can be.
What advice would you give to women who want to pursue their passions but face obstacles or fear?
There is never a right time to start something new. You just have to take a leap of faith into the unknown and put as much effort as you can. As long as you have tried all that you can, the result is just another stage in your life.
How do you mentally prepare for a big fight?
I spend a lot of time meditating and in prayer. I have a strong relationship with God, and I like to focus on my faith to help me face the task at hand.
How does your Ghanaian background influence your approach to style?
Ghanaian fashion uses a very vibrant colour palette, which I love because you can express yourself by the colours you wear.
What role does fashion play in your life and how does it make you feel empowered?
I’ve always paid attention to style, and that even translates into my fitness attire and when I’m competing in the ring. When my nails and hair are done, and I’m dressed for the occasion, it helps you feel confident to step into any room.
Do you have a particular fashion piece that makes you feel invincible?
I love jewellery and I never leave home without earrings at the very least!
How do you express your creativity through fashion, both in and out of the ring?
I like to accessorise as the small details can really uplift an outfit.
How does a Borgo de Nor piece make you feel when you wear it?
Borgo de Nor uses a lot of hues and prints which is great because they’re very expressive and emulates the type of vibrancy that I choose on a day-to-day basis.