The year is 2023 and the theme for this year’s The Future Awards Africa is Defying Odds, Inspiring Greatness. The stage is set for trailblazers across industries including dance, sport, film, entrepreneurship and tech. 128 nominees are up for the coveted awards in 25 different categories. We introduce you these dynamic game-changers ahead of Africa’s biggest youth celebration.
The Future Awards Nominee Illuminating African Stories through Cinema: Ifan Michael
The visionary filmmaker, stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the Nigerian film industry. His nomination for a Future Africa Award is a recognition of his tireless dedication to storytelling and cinema. As the creative mind behind acclaimed works like "Lotana," Ifan has consistently used the power of film to provoke change, spark conversations, and inspire hope. He recently announced his upcoming autobiographical film, "The Boy who never falls," a project that reflects his childhood struggles and his move to Lagos, which promises to be a testament to the power of dreams. In this exclusive interview for the Future Awards, Ifan Michael shares his remarkable journey, offers insights into his artistic process, and discusses his aspirations for the future of African cinema.
Glamour: What does it mean to you to be nominated for a Future Africa Award, and how do you feel your work aligns with the mission of these awards?
Ifan Michael: Being nominated for a Future Africa Award is a profound honour and a testament to the impact of the work I've dedicated myself to. These awards celebrate young leaders and change-makers, and I believe my work aligns perfectly with their mission to recognize those who are making a difference. As a filmmaker and artist, I strive to tell compelling stories that resonate with people on a personal level. Through my work, I aim to inspire, empower, and provoke positive change in society, which aligns perfectly with the goals of the Future Africa Awards.
Glamour: Can you share the story of how you first became passionate about the cause or field for which you've been nominated? What drives your commitment to this cause?
IM: My passion for filmmaking and storytelling has always been a part of me. However, it was my experiences growing up in challenging circumstances that ignited a fire within me. I realized the power of storytelling to bring about change and to inspire hope, and I wanted to harness that power. My commitment to this cause is driven by the belief that stories have the ability to transform lives and perspectives. I want to be a voice for those who may not have had the opportunity to be heard and, in doing so, make a positive impact on the world.
Glamour: In what ways do you believe your work has made a significant impact or brought positive change to your community or the larger society?
IM: Through my films and storytelling, I've aimed to shed light on important social issues, inspire conversations, and encourage empathy. "Lotana," for instance, delves into themes of resilience and hope, which have resonated with audiences and prompted discussions on similar experiences. Additionally, my commitment to mentoring and inspiring young talents within the entertainment industry has contributed to the growth of Nollywood. I believe that my work has played a role in shaping perspectives and inspiring positive change in society.
Glamour: As a nominee, you're recognized as an influential and inspirational figure. How do you hope your nomination can inspire the next generation of leaders and changemakers?
IM: I hope my nomination can serve as a beacon of hope for the next generation of leaders and changemakers. It's a testament that regardless of the challenges one may face in their journey, determination and hard work can lead to recognition and success. I want to inspire young individuals to pursue their dreams passionately, never giving up on their aspirations, and to use their platforms to create positive change.
Glamour: The Future Africa Awards celebrate young people making a difference. Can you share some advice for other young individuals who aspire to create change or excel in your field?
IM: My advice to young individuals is to dream big, work hard, and never stop learning. Challenges are part of the journey, but they should be seen as stepping stones, not obstacles. Seek mentors, collaborate, and be open to new opportunities. Your uniqueness is your strength, and your perspective matters. Embrace it and use it to create positive change in your field and the world.
Glamour: Nominees often come from diverse backgrounds and fields. How can this diversity contribute to a more inclusive and progressive future for Africa, and how can we harness these differences for positive change?
IM: Diversity is our strength, and it's what makes Africa a vibrant and dynamic continent. Embracing this diversity and recognizing the value in our differences is crucial for building a more inclusive and progressive future. We can harness these differences by fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds to work together. When we come together, we have the potential to address complex challenges and create positive change that benefits all of Africa.
Glamour: Looking ahead, what are your future goals and ambitions? How do you plan to continue your impact and contribution to the betterment of Africa and the world?
IM: My future goals include continuing to tell compelling stories that resonate with audiences and inspire change. I plan to explore new and diverse narratives, both locally and internationally. Additionally, I'm committed to mentoring and supporting young talents in the entertainment industry. My aim is to contribute to the growth and evolution of Nollywood and continue making a positive impact in Africa and the world through the art of storytelling.
A Visionary in Real Estate: Lukman Shobowale’s Journey and Aspirations
Lukman Shobowale, a nominee for The Future Africa Awards in the Entrepreneurship category, has emerged as a visionary in the real estate sector, contributing significantly to bridging Nigeria's housing deficit through Dukiya Real Estate. His journey from a youth corper to a thriving entrepreneur showcases the power of passion and perseverance. Lukman discusses his mission, impact, and vision for Africa's real estate landscape, hoping to inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers.
Glamour: What does it mean to be nominated for a Future Africa Award in Entrepreneurship, and how do you feel your work with Dukiya aligns with the mission of these awards?
Lukman Shobowale: Being nominated for The Future Africa Awards in Entrepreneurship is a remarkable honor for Dukiya. It shines a national spotlight on our contributions as an entrepreneur and real estate developer. Our work aligns with the awards' mission by focusing on building a sustainable brand that transforms the real estate investment landscape in Nigeria, making it more inclusive and accessible.
Glamour: Can you share the story of how you first became passionate about the cause or field for which you've been nominated? What drives your commitment to this cause?
LS: My passion for real estate ignited during my youth service year, where I discovered the joy of making people proud property owners through Dukiya. This drive, combined with a natural knack for selling, led me to choose real estate. The commitment to this cause stems from a mission of reinventing comfort, building smiles, and leading people home while transforming the real estate sector.
Glamour: In what ways do you believe your work with Dukiya has made a significant impact or brought positive change to your community or the larger society?
LS: Dukiya has been addressing Nigeria's housing deficit, making hundreds of people property owners. Additionally, we've provided opportunities for around 2,000 young individuals to learn, earn, and bring reforms to the real estate industry. We've gone from being a household real estate brand to representing Nigeria globally, all while focusing on our mission of reinventing comfort and leading people home.
Glamour: As a nominee in the Entrepreneurship category, you're recognized as an influential and inspirational figure. How do you hope your nomination can inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers?
LS: I hope my nomination inspires the next generation to realize that dreams come true with audacity, grit, and perseverance. They should understand that greatness is attainable regardless of the odds, and I believe they'll learn from my journey with Dukiya that daring greatly is the key.
Glamour: The Future Africa Awards celebrate young people making a difference. Can you share some advice for other young individuals who aspire to create change or excel in your field of entrepreneurship?
LS: I've written a book titled 'The Real Value of Wealth,' emphasizing the overlooked possibilities in the real estate sector and entrepreneurship. My advice is to explore the opportunities these sectors offer to build a sustainable economic future, amass wealth, and contribute positively to your community and the larger society.
Glamour: Nominees often come from diverse backgrounds and fields. How can this diversity contribute to a more inclusive and progressive future for Africa, and how can we harness these differences for positive change?
LS: Our diversity is our strength, ensuring cultural representation, diverse thoughts, and various expressions. When we unite with a harmonious blend of these differences, we become a formidable force for an inclusive and progressive Africa.
Glamour: Looking ahead, what are your future goals and ambitions for Dukiya and your impact on Africa and the world?
LS: Dukiya's ambition is to be Africa's foremost real estate brand and a household name in the industry. We aim to become the largest holder and seller of land properties in Africa. To achieve this, we'll focus on continuous learning, networking, and collaboration to bring the desired change to the housing sector in Africa while enhancing Africa's global image.
Shaping a Brighter Future with Clean Energy: Sandra Chukwudozie's Journey
In an era where innovation, sustainability, and change-makers are pivotal for Africa's growth, Sandra Chukwudozie emerges as a leading figure in the clean energy sector. Nominated for the prestigious Future Africa Award, Sandra reflects on her journey in the energy industry, providing insights into her passion for clean energy, the impact of her work, and the inspirational role she hopes to play for the next generation of leaders and change-makers.
Glamour: What does it mean to you to be nominated for a Future Africa Award, and how do you feel your work aligns with the mission of these awards?
Sandra Chukwudozie: Being nominated for the Future Africa Award is a tremendous honor and a validation of the importance of the work we do at Salpha Energy. These awards celebrate the efforts of young people who are dedicated to creating a positive change in their communities, and I'm humbled to be recognized among such inspirational individuals. The mission of the awards closely aligns with our commitment to innovation in clean energy and our efforts to combat societal issues related to energy access and sustainability in Africa.
Glamour: Can you share the story of how you first became passionate about the cause or field for which you've been nominated? What drives your commitment to this cause?
SC: My passion for clean energy and sustainability can be traced back to my early exposure to the energy industry, thanks to my family's involvement in the Oil and Gas industry. However, it was during the formative years of my career at the United Nations Headquarters in New York that I experienced a profound shift in my perspective on energy. It became clear that energy had to evolve to be not only efficient but also clean, safe, and sustainable. Most importantly, I recognized that addressing the energy access gap required prioritizing the most underserved and marginalized populations.
During this period, I found my purpose – a platform to actively drive meaningful change in the energy sector. The change I sought was none other than the global energy transition. As a young woman in Nigeria, I fully grasped the significance of dreaming big and understood the transformative impact such a vision could have on our nation. I was also inspired by the idea that it could serve as a beacon of hope and motivation for young people, particularly the underdogs and the underestimated, who were eager to prove themselves. My goal was to harness the energy and aspirations of the youth to spearhead this transformative change.
Glamour: In what ways do you believe your work has made a significant impact or brought positive change to your community or the larger society?
SC: Salpha Energy's mission is to provide solar solutions that offer access to clean energy for homes and businesses in both rural and urban areas. Through our initiatives, we have empowered communities by giving them access to reliable and sustainable power sources. We have seen businesses thrive, children study after dark, and healthcare facilities operate more efficiently. Our work has contributed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving the overall quality of life. We have made a significant impact on local communities and have a broader vision for scaling our impact across Africa, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and prosperous society.
Glamour: As a nominee, you're recognized as an influential and inspirational figure. How do you hope your nomination can inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers?
SC: I hope my nomination serves as a beacon of hope for young individuals who aspire to create change. It is a reminder that young people have the potential to lead and inspire transformation in their communities and the world. I want to inspire the next generation to pursue their passions, especially in fields related to them, and show them that they too can make a significant impact on the world. My journey is a testament to the possibilities that lie ahead when one is dedicated, innovative, and committed to making the world a better place.
Glamour: The Future Africa Awards celebrate young people making a difference. Can you share some advice for other young individuals who aspire to create change or excel in your field?
SC: My advice to young individuals aspiring to make a difference is to believe in the power of their ideas and to persist in their efforts. Change often comes with challenges, but those challenges can be overcome with determination and creativity. It's also important to surround yourself with mentors and a supportive network that can help guide and inspire your journey. Collaboration and a commitment to lifelong learning are key to making a meaningful impact. I hope to network with other driven entrepreneurs who are committed to unlocking the potentials of Africa. Ultimately, it’s not our spreadsheet or presentation skills that will save the world. It’s our ability to fully experience what it means to be human and to approach the world from that place of authenticity and innovation.
Glamour: Nominees often come from diverse backgrounds and fields. How can this diversity contribute to a more inclusive and progressive future for Africa, and how can we harness these differences for positive change?
SC: Diversity is one of Africa's greatest strengths. When young leaders from diverse backgrounds and fields come together, they bring a wealth of unique perspectives and experiences to the table. This diversity can lead to more comprehensive and innovative solutions for the complex challenges we face as a continent. Harnessing these differences means actively seeking out and respecting varied voices, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and ensuring inclusivity in all our efforts. Together, we can create a more inclusive and progressive Africa that leverages its diversity for positive change.
Glamour: Looking ahead, what are your future goals and ambitions? How do you plan to continue your impact and contribution to the betterment of Africa and the world?
SC: This year Salpha Energy successfully commissioned its Solar Home System Assembly Plant, a significant milestone in our journey. The plant, located in Lagos, Nigeria, boasts a state-of-the-art facility spanning 1,640 square meters. It has an annual production capacity of c. 500,000 solar home systems. This achievement has not only boosted our local manufacturing capabilities but has also contributed to employment generation by creating 100 new jobs.
There is an urgency to expand and reach the current energy-poor in Africa with clean and affordable energy. Our audacious target at Salpha is to provide 30 million people across the African continent with access to clean energy by 2030.
The journey to achieving this feat will involve regional expansion plans to include more countries across western, eastern, and southern Africa. Hiring the right team and global partnerships across the value chain.
Ultimately, my vision is to contribute to a future where clean energy is a universal reality, driving economic growth and improving the quality of life across the continent and beyond.
Navigating from Banking to Becoming Africa's Rising Action Star: Tobi Bakre
Tobi Bakre's journey to becoming one of Africa's rising action stars is an incredible story of determination and passion. While his career might have started in a different direction, his unwavering commitment to making his mark in the entertainment industry has paid off.
Initially, Tobi pursued a degree in Banking and Finance at the University of Lagos, which was a far cry from the glitzy world of acting and entertainment. Little did he know that his future held something entirely different from the banking world he was preparing for.
Tobi's big break came when he became one of the housemates on Big Brother Naija Double Wahala in 2018. He recognized that this was the opportunity he needed to transition from a banking job to a career in entertainment. After finishing in third place on the show, he made the bold decision to leave his banking job and fully commit to building a career in the entertainment industry.
His journey towards stardom was not an overnight success but rather a steady climb. Tobi took on hosting roles at prestigious events like the Future Awards, Teen Choice Awards, The Stage Award, and the MultiChoice Showcase. These early experiences helped him build confidence and polish his on-camera skills.
In 2018, Tobi made his acting debut, starring as himself in Africa Magic's "Hustle." He also delved into photography, modeling, and fitness, further enhancing his image as an action star in the making. His dedication to fitness and his impressive physique served as a testament to his commitment to his craft.
Tobi continued to expand his horizons, working on various film projects and hosting more events. In 2019, he took on multiple roles in films like "The Scourge," "Fix Us," "The Sojjis," "Mokalik," "Sugar Rush," with the latter becoming a blockbuster success. It was a turning point that solidified his reputation as a serious actor.
The year 2020 marked another significant milestone in Tobi's career. He starred as 'Ike' in "Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story," his first action role. Although action roles were sparse until 2022, he remained dedicated to his craft. In 2021, Tobi appeared in films like "Breaking Point" and "Unintentional," honing his skills and gaining experience.
The turning point came in 2022 when Tobi starred in "The Blood Covenant" and showcased his action skills as 'Eddy.' This marked the beginning of his journey as a certified action star. His breakthrough came in the film "Brotherhood," where he portrayed 'Akin Adetula.' His performance, combining action sequences with an emotional depth, resonated with audiences.
As of September 2023, Tobi is set to take on another action role in "Slum King." In this crime thriller, he will play Edafe Majemijesu Umukoro, a character dealing with internal and external battles. Tobi is proud of his title as the Number 1 African Action Star and encourages everyone to use it freely.
As recognition for Tobi's rise as an action star, he has been nominated for the prestigious Future Awards in the acting category, further solidifying his place among Africa's emerging talents. His journey from a banking graduate to a rising action star is an inspiring tale of following one's passion and embracing new opportunities. His commitment and hard work have led him to the top of the entertainment industry, and his future as an action star is brighter than ever.
Dominating the fashion scene: Victoria James
Victoria James is a name that resonates through the corridors of elegance, creativity, and red-carpet allure. A Nigerian fashion virtuoso, she's more than just a designer; she's a stylist extraordinaire and a professional makeup artist. Her enchanting creations grace the world's most renowned runways, and her exquisite gowns adorn brides in their most cherished moments. Victoria James, or Veekee James as the fashion world adoringly calls her, has carved a name synonymous with style and sophistication.
But to understand the spectacular journey that is Veekee James, one must first delve into her past, a past brimming with dreams and the echo of her mother's sewing machine. Veekee's infatuation with fashion started at a tender age when she'd sit by her mother's side, captivated by the symphony of fabrics and the artistry of needle and thread. Her mother, a talented tailor, wove not just garments but a tapestry of aspiration in her daughter's heart.
As she grew older, Veekee's fervor for fashion only intensified. Driven by her early memories, she decided to embark on a journey that would take her from a small town in Nigeria to the glittering world of fashion and style. Armed with a vision, resilience, and a heart brimming with creativity, she set out to create her own brand.
In the beginning, the path was challenging. Like many budding designers, Veekee faced skepticism and setbacks. But her mother's spirit was her guiding light, a beacon of inspiration, reminding her that even the greatest designers started with a dream. She embraced every hurdle as an opportunity to learn, a stepping stone on her path to greatness.
Veekee James soon became a name to reckon with. Her first breakthrough came as she began designing custom dresses for weddings. Her pieces stood out, not just for their intricate detailing but for the essence of love and celebration woven into each thread. Brides felt like ethereal goddesses in her creations, and word of her unparalleled bridal designs soon spread like wildfire.
But Veekee's talent and versatility knew no bounds. She dabbled in the world of makeup artistry and quickly rose to prominence. Her touch transformed faces into canvases of beauty, accentuating the unique features of her clients and leaving them spellbound. Her distinctive style earned her recognition from the beauty industry, and she became the go-to makeup artist for celebrities, brides, and models.
One of her defining moments came when she collaborated with the renowned Nigerian gospel singer Mercy Chinwo. The two creative powerhouses joined forces to craft breathtaking looks for Mercy's music videos and performances. Mercy's music touched hearts, and Veekee's designs resonated with the aesthetics of the songs. Their collaboration was a masterpiece, blending soulful melodies with captivating visuals. It was a union that made a lasting impression in the world of fashion and gospel music.
But the zenith of Veekee James' career was reached when she worked with the stunning Osas Ighodaro. It was the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards, and all eyes were on Osas. Draped in an opulent gown designed by Veekee, Osas glided down the red carpet, radiating grace and sophistication. Her gown, a symphony of shimmering fabrics and intricate embroidery, was a statement of elegance and style. The world took notice, and Osas was crowned the best-dressed personality of the night. The 2022 AMVCA awards had witnessed the magic of Veekee James.
Celebrity after celebrity sought Veekee James to curate their signature styles. From Nollywood stars to music sensations, they all wanted a touch of her genius. Each collaboration was a testament to her ability to infuse a unique identity into her creations. With her distinctive eye for detail and an uncanny ability to understand her clients' preferences, she became the fashion designer and stylist of choice.
Yet, in the midst of all the glamour and fame, Veekee James remains grounded, an embodiment of humility and gratitude. She doesn't see herself as just a fashion designer; she sees herself as a dream-weaver, an artist, and a creator. Her journey from a small town girl with a passion for fashion to a celebrated designer and makeup artist is an inspiration to aspiring artists everywhere.
Today, Veekee James continues to craft the future of fashion with each design, each stroke of her makeup brush, and each exquisite ensemble that leaves her studio. Her brand is a celebration of creativity and individuality, a testament to her tireless pursuit of perfection.
Her dedication to her craft goes beyond designing beautiful clothes; it's about celebrating life's most precious moments and empowering people to feel confident and exceptional. In the world of fashion, she has forged a legacy that will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the runway of life.
So, as you see the red carpet adorned with magnificent gowns, remember that behind those creations stands Veekee James, a dreamer who turned her passion into a journey of enchantment. And with every masterpiece she crafts, she invites you to join her in a world of style, elegance, and the magic of dreams woven into reality.
Oghenerukevwe Toka: Inspiring the African Dream Through Marketing and Business Leadership
Oghenerukevwe Toka's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a marketing and business leader is a testament to the African dream and the potential that lies within the continent's youth. His nomination for a Future Africa Award fills him with a profound sense of joy, excitement, and fulfilment. This recognition represents not only his career achievements but also his dedication to mentoring and guiding emerging professionals and entrepreneurs through the Brand Management Academy. Toka shares the pivotal moments that ignited his passion for marketing, discusses his significant impact on Africa's business landscape, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring leaders and change-makers. His own story embodies the diversity that Africa represents, and he envisions a brighter future for the continent, built on unity and shared experiences.
Glamour: What does it mean to you to be nominated for a Future Africa Award, and how do you feel your work aligns with the mission of these awards?
Oghenerukevwe Toka: I was elated to receive my nomination for the Future Africa Award, filled with a profound sense of joy, excitement, and fulfilment. My aspirations of being nominated and, perhaps, emerging as an award-winner had been nurtured since my earliest attendance at previous editions of this prestigious event. My career trajectory has been a unique and unconventional journey, marked by a series of highs and lows. Nevertheless, my unwavering resilience has enabled me to overcome challenges and make a meaningful impact. This nomination is an acknowledgement of my hard work and relentless commitment to excellence, and at the same time, it is a catalyst for my future growth. I have not only delivered excellent results in my corporate career, but I have also made a meaningful contribution by mentoring and guiding emerging professionals and entrepreneurs through various channels, most notably the Brand Management Academy. I see a strong alignment between my purpose to help people succeed and The Future Africa Awards mission to build a network of young Africans working together to solve the continent's biggest and most urgent issues.
Glamour: Can you share the story of how you first became passionate about the cause or field for which you've been nominated? What drives your commitment to this cause?
OT: As an undergraduate student, I constantly thought about my future and life after school, and this led me to explore the marketing field. My pivotal moment came through self-discovery, personal leadership, and constant research, which led me to discover my passion for digital and social media marketing. Driven by this newfound passion, I voluntarily offered my skill set to assist a musician within my community. Unexpectedly, the musician expressed their willingness to compensate me for my services, exposing me to the tangible value of my expertise. This revelation served as a catalyst for me to delve deeper into marketing and embark on a journey of self-improvement in anticipation of larger and more significant opportunities.
11 years later, I have been fortunate to grow beyond digital and social media marketing, acquiring broader marketing and business skills including category strategy, brand management, consumer & omni channel shopper insights, data-driven marketing, as well as marketing communications. I have put my skills to work for some of the world’s most iconic brands and have also transferred my capabilities to others through coaching and thought leadership.
I am committed to helping people, especially African youths, succeed by coaching and mentoring. I am motivated by human capital development and business sustainability. I believe that if youths are empowered with core business and technology skills, it would, in turn, contribute to business sustainability and a bright future for Africa.
Glamour: In what ways do you believe your work has made a significant impact or brought positive change to your community or the larger society?
Glamour: In a nutshell, my work inspires other African youths to see possibility in impossibility. If I, from a very humble background, could do it, then they can do much more. I was the first Nigerian appointed as Head of Insights to pioneer The Heineken Company's new agency model (Heineken Digital Engagement Centre) in Nigeria, the first Nigerian appointed on Unilever’s Global People Data Centre to pioneer its operations in West Africa, the first Nigerian appointed on The Coca-Cola Company’s new Human Insights function as a Shopper Insights Manager for the African Continent, and the first Nigerian appointed to the Global Advisory Board of Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) Council for Sub-Saharan Africa in recognition of my contributions to the advancement of marketing and capability development in Africa.
I make an impact every day in my 9-5 job, as well as through capability development platforms such as Brand Management Academy.
Impact as a Category Development Manager of MAGGI:
The MAGGI brand, which I manage daily, touches the lives of millions of consumers across Nigeria and, by extension, Central and West Africa. As I strive daily to achieve commercial objectives, including profitable revenue growth and business expansion, I also contribute to the nutrition, health, and well-being of Africans.
The MAGGI Star Cube (enzymatically hydrolyzed protein (EHP) cube), our most popular product, is fortified with iron and contains iodine, which addresses widespread micronutrient deficiencies and helps millions of consumers across Central and West Africa increase their micronutrient intake at a low cost. Iron is part of the red blood cells, specifically the protein haemoglobin, which carries oxygen through the blood. Anaemia - the state of having too little haemoglobin in the blood - is mostly caused by a lack of iron in the diet. In some countries in Central and West Africa, up to 90% of children are anaemic; however, MAGGI consumption contributes significantly to reversing this trend.
In my capacity as a Category Development Manager for MAGGI, I have driven the expansion of the business, leading to our recognition from Kantar in 2023 as the Number 1 Most Chosen Consumer Goods product in all of Africa and the Middle East. I have also designed and executed strong marketing campaigns, which contributed immensely to the growth of the Nestle business in Nigeria. When Nestle grows, the ripple effect is felt across a wide range of stakeholders, including shareholders, distributor partners, wholesalers, and retailers. MAGGI commands one of the largest networks of retailers in Nigeria who benefit immensely from the equity of the brand by way of the good margins they generate on every sale. I also pioneered a new behavioural science and cross-selling approach backed by cognitive psychology, which improved the performance of the powders seasoning segment of the seasoning category at Nestlé. These segments historically experienced slower growth compared to the dominant segment of the category, which is the MAGGI Star Cube, and this new approach contributed to solidifying MAGGI’s number 1 position in the market way ahead of all other competitors.
Impact as the Chief Operations Officer of Brand Management Academy:
I began my work with Brand Management Academy (BMA) in 2020 as a Marketing and Communications Manager and quickly rose through the ranks to become the school’s pioneer Chief Operations Officer.
BMA is Nigeria's foremost practical marketing capability development hub, established to develop practicing and aspiring brand management professionals. BMA is positioned as the hub for practical marketing knowledge and skills development for marketing professionals & business leaders in Nigeria. We designed our training programs to deliver practical skills and competencies required for effective brand management, leveraging top industry experts, relevant local case studies, and international frameworks.
I designed the school’s positioning and contributed immensely to its growth and recognition as the Most Outstanding Brand School in Career Growth at the Brandcom 2022 Awards. BMA has also achieved candidate registrations exceeding its classroom capacity since 2020 when I began to lead the marketing and expansion strategy of the school.
I have also coached over 150 professionals at BMA. These professionals are usually mid-career professionals in the field of marketing and sales, as well as entrepreneurs. I coached them on various subject matter areas, including Marketing Leadership and Structure, Brand and Marketing Foundation, Brand Strategic Planning, Innovation Management, Design Thinking, Insight Generation and Management, Communication Development, Media Planning and Deployment, Brand Plan Execution, Marketing Metrics and Measurement, and Digital Marketing Integration. A lot of professionals who passed through BMA and experienced my coaching, together with other faculty members, have gone on to land prestigious jobs at world-class organisations such as Airtel, AB InBev, Unilever, TGI Group, PZ Cussons, Coca-Cola Hellenic, Silverbird Group, Mondelez International, Diageo, Adidas, Moet Hennessy, Nigerian Aviation Handling Company, L’Oreal, Monster Energy, Kantar, Promasidor, and GB Foods, to mention a few, while many others have progressed with higher degrees in world-class institutions abroad, including Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Glamour: As a nominee, you're recognized as an influential and inspirational figure. How do you hope your nomination can inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers?
OT: I come from a very humble and under-represented background. My journey reflects the struggles and aspirations of the African youth, and this recognition reflects the African dream. I hope my nomination inspires the next generation of leaders and change-makers to wake up every morning, look at the mirror, and say to themselves, “I can make it. I can change the world, and no matter what comes my way, I will never give up.”
It has not been a smooth ride for me; I have faced several setbacks, and I acknowledge that rejection is one of the biggest barriers future leaders and change-makers face as they progress on their journeys. I would like to use this medium to share a quote I wrote on this subject:
“Rejections are like a staircase; you must keep climbing them to reach that glorious height you desire. Giving up is not an option.”
It is my hope that the next generation of African leaders and change-makers will continue to work tirelessly towards moving Africa forward. I hope that nothing distracts them, and I hope that together we will build the Africa of our dreams.
Glamour: The Future Africa Awards celebrate young people making a difference. Can you share some advice for other young individuals who aspire to create change or excel in your field?
OT: My advice to other young individuals who aspire to excel in the field of marketing and business leadership is captured in a framework I created, which is called the TORCH Code.
T - Take control and responsibility for your career and business results. Own your decisions and the outcomes; stay in the driver’s seat.
O - Out with the old, in with the new and the next, be innovative every day. Focus on moving forward and let go of your antecedent.
R - Reach for your highest potential, never settle. Settling for any reason whatsoever often leads to future regrets.
C - Change your behaviour, mindset, and actions in order to experience a corresponding change in your life or business situation; it all begins with you.
H - Hope, faith & love are the key to happiness. Stay hopeful, show faith in yourself and others, and finally, love your consumers genuinely.
Glamour: Nominees often come from diverse backgrounds and fields. How can this diversity contribute to a more inclusive and progressive future for Africa, and how can we harness these differences for positive change?
OT: Africans are diverse in terms of physical appearance, languages, dialects, and cultures. There are over 2000 different languages and dialects spoken in Africa. Africa is indeed the most colourful continent, and The Future Africa Awards is certainly one of the best platforms to bring Africa’s diversity to the fore. It is critical to show Africans that change is possible and that change-makers are just like them. Africans need to see that change-makers speak their language, eat the same food they eat, and share in their struggles and aspirations.
The diversity of TFAA nominees and our ability to leverage our collective genius by uniting and forging partnerships in the interest of Africa’s bright future will go a long way in driving Africa forward. I look forward to more engagements with fellow nominees and contributing my time, skills, and knowledge to various transformational projects that will be critical to achieving our collective African dream.
Glamour: Looking ahead, what are your future goals and ambitions? How do you plan to continue your impact and contribution to the betterment of Africa and the world?
OT: My long-term goal is to become a global business leader with extensive cross-cultural experiences & a track record of driving groundbreaking profitable business growth while working to move Africa forward. I also aspire to:
Execute Pan-African expansion of Brand Management Academy while empowering 1,000,000 youths with core business and technology skills in the next 5 to 10 years.
Become a Chief Executive Officer building sustainable Pan-African enterprises.
Stir economic growth by attaining board appointments at global multinationals while enhancing their Pan-African expansion.
Framing Life's Stories Through a Lens: Ngozi Ejionueme's Inspirational Journey
Photography has a remarkable power to capture the essence of life and tell stories that resonate deeply with people. Ngozi Ejionueme, a passionate photographer, nominated for the prestigious Future Africa Award, shares his thoughts on what the recognition means to him, his inspirational journey into photography, the positive impact he's had on his community, and aspirations to continue shaping narratives through his lens.
Glamour: What does it mean to you to be nominated for a Future Africa Award, and how do you feel your work aligns with the mission of these awards?
Ngozi Ejionueme: It’s an incredible honor to be nominated for an award such as this, and a beautiful feeling to know that my work in the industry is acknowledged. Through my work, I am able to tell personal stories of brands and individuals through photography, and awards like this are a platform to appreciate and elevate these stories.
Glamour: Can you share the story of how you first became passionate about the cause or field for which you've been nominated? What drives your commitment to this cause?
NE: My passion started at the very young age of 13; I started off taking pictures of my surroundings to capture the beauty of the world around me, until it eventually developed into a business that has thrived for the past 7 years. My commitment is fuelled by my passion to tell stories with my art, using photos to provoke emotions and inspire action.
Glamour: In what ways do you believe your work has made a significant impact or brought positive change to your community or the larger society?
NE: Through my work, I have been able to nurture my immediate community of young photographers and creatives who are also looking to elevate the standard of their art through education. I also created an enterprise called Backdropdex, which deals in the sales and rental of specially crafted backdrops to enhance the quality of the work of photographers for the utmost satisfaction of their clients.
Glamour: As a nominee, you're recognized as an influential and inspirational figure. How do you hope your nomination can inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers?
NE: I hope the next generation understands that passion can be discovered at any age, hard work never goes out of style, and most importantly, believing in yourself and your craft is the first step to conquering the world and getting the respect your art truly deserves.
Glamour: The Future Africa Awards celebrate young people making a difference. Can you share some advice for other young individuals who aspire to create change or excel in your field?
NE: Trust yourself enough to never give up on yourself. It’s not enough to have a dream; have a plan, follow through with it, no matter how long it takes. Keep practicing as that’s the only way you can become better at your craft, and most importantly, network and put yourself out there. You are nothing without the people around you.
Glamour: Nominees often come from diverse backgrounds and fields. How can this diversity contribute to a more inclusive and progressive future for Africa, and how can we harness these differences for positive change?
NE: We may come from different backgrounds, but we are Africa, we are one, and our voices come together to form one triumphant voice. Acknowledging our different backgrounds helps give us a broader perspective to scrutinize and solve our problems in our society for the betterment of one another.
Glamour: Looking ahead, what are your future goals and ambitions? How do you plan to continue your impact and contribution to the betterment of Africa and the world?
NE: In the coming years, I intend to continue using my photography as a powerful medium for connecting with people, conveying emotions, and sharing stories for individuals, brands, and organizations worldwide. On a lighter note, I also intend to go to law school and become a bonafide member of the Nigerian Bar Association.
