Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter
Nigerian singer and songwriter Sarah Oyinkansola Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr has opened up about her desire to become a major icon for young African girls.
Speaking in an interview with Hitz FM on November 15, 2025, the musician explained that her career choices; both style and musically, are driven by a deliberate intention to represent and inspire young girls across the continent.
According to her, she aims to build a brand that mirrors the global impact of Disney star Miley Cyrus’ character, Hannah Montana, who became a symbol of youth influence and pop culture.
“It’s a very intentional thing for me because I have sisters and I always say in interviews that I want to be the African Hannah Montana,” she said.
Ayra Starr stated that since there has not been anyone mimicking her style in the industry, young girls naturally gravitate towards her.
Mixed reactions greet Ayra Starr’s signing to Jay Z’s Rocnation
“I want young girls to look up to me and I feel like that’s what it is now. For now, there’s never been anyone like me in this space, so girls automatically look up to me,” she noted.
However, she emphasized that being a role model does not mean she must lose her individuality.
For her, the real challenge is finding the right balance between inspiring her fans and expressing her true self.
“Now, is being able to build trust for myself where I’m not performing just because I want to be a role model but I’m also doing what I want to do as an individual. I’m just finding the balance,” Ayra Starr added.
FG/EB
Watch the promo to GhanaWeb’s latest documentary, which uncovers the evolution of ‘kayamata,’ an exploitative practice fueled by love charms and manipulation, titled, “The Dark Side of Kayamata,’ below:
