It’s official, Malia Obama is THAT girl.
The 25-year-old multi-hyphenate is quietly making her mark in Hollywood, and her latest flex? She directed WNBA star A’ja Wilson’s recent Nike commercial. She did it with the kind of cool, confident creativity that proves she’s not here to play, she’s here to stay.
While most people still see her as the poised eldest daughter of former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Malia is crafting her own story, and sis is in her director era now.
Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About Malia Obama
She’s Now Going By “Malia Ann” Professionally
In Hollywood, a name is everything. Malia recently debuted her work under the name Malia Ann, using her middle name in her film credits. It’s the sign of a grown woman rebrand and it’s a clear sign she’s carving out her own legacy.
She’s a Harvard Grad
Malia graduated from Harvard University in 2021, where she studied Visual and Environmental Studies. Therefore, she’s got both the creativity and the credentials.
While at Harvard, she stayed mostly out of the spotlight, focusing on writing, directing, and developing her voice as a storyteller.
She Was a Writer on Donald Glover’s Show “Swarm”
The buzzy, genre-bending series co-created by Donald Glover and Janine Nabers shocked the nation. Malia was part of the writers’ room, and according to Glover himself, she’s “an amazingly talented person.”
What’s even more interesting is that the episode she wrote was one of the darkest and most talked-about in the series.
She’s Always Been Passionate About Film
Even before Harvard, Malia was getting her feet wet in the industry. She interned on the set of “Girls” and later worked on “Extant”, a sci-fi series produced by Steven Spielberg.
She’s been quietly learning from the best, and now she’s stepping behind the camera with confidence.
She Keeps Her Circle Tight and Her Privacy Tighter
In a world where oversharing is the norm, Malia is a refreshing reminder that you don’t have to broadcast every move to make major ones. She’s rarely seen on social media, keeps a low public profile, and lets her work speak for itself.
She’s a Certified Style Muse
From oversized blazers to boho-chic sundresses and beat-up Converse, Malia’s effortless street style stays trending on Pinterest boards. Her vibe is very “I make art and I thrift vintage denim,” and the world is here for it.
She’s All About Storytelling that Centers Black Women
What makes Malia’s directing work (like the A’ja Wilson Nike ad) so powerful is how it centers Black women in moments of joy, strength, and vulnerability. Her storytelling is intentional, layered, and grounded in a deep understanding of culture. She’s not just telling stories; she’s shifting narratives.