Princess Kelechi Oghene’s beautiful face has graced many billboards and calendars across the country as the brand ambassador for Orange Drugs. She has since grown to become a fashion mogul after taking a big leap into fashion and modelling when she established her GMYT fashion empire. In this interview with OLAITAN GANIU, she talks about her business, success, achievements, and impact on society.
There are economic challenges and it’s biting hard at businesses, how have you been faring?
Our resilience is due to our adaptive business strategies, which include diversification, continuous upskilling, and technological advancement, enabling us to navigate economic fluctuations successfully.
What’s the most challenging moment since your debut in your industry?
Maintaining accountability and standard practices is a significant challenge in our industry. It’s difficult to find professionals who uphold high standards of professionalism and adhere to strict operating systems. This challenge is crucial because you can’t build a successful business without structure and discipline. Actually, here at GMYT Fashion Academy, we emphasize these values, ensuring our students understand the importance of professionalism and consistency. This commitment has been a cornerstone of our success and a constant challenge in the industry.
Do you still set trends in the fashion world with activities in the academy?
Absolutely, here at GMYT Fashion Academy, we set trends with our innovative and comprehensive curriculum. Our activities include lookbook presentations where students showcase their work through mini-modeling presentations and visual portfolios. We offer courses that go beyond national standards, covering every integral aspect of the fashion industry. Our rigorous, all-encompassing curriculum ensures our students are well-prepared to lead and innovate. As a leading fashion academy in the country, we continuously update our courses to stay ahead of industry trends.
How do you balance this with the home front?
I believe in and practice SMART Goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This approach prevents me from getting overwhelmed and helps me manage my time effectively. By setting clear goals, I ensure that my professional and personal responsibilities are balanced. This principle, which I teach at GMYT Fashion Academy, helps our students and myself achieve more without compromising on quality or efficiency. It’s demanding, but SMART Goals make it manageable.
Looking back, what did you do to help get to where you are today?
Discipline and structure have been fundamental to my success. Having a solid, well-defined system for how things are done and maintaining high standards are crucial. If you don’t know who you are, others will define you.
I have always been clear about my values and the standards I uphold. This clarity has been one of the key factors that got me through various challenges and helped me stand out in the industry. This is one of the many cultures championed fully at GMYT Fashion Academy and we instill these values in our students and overall community, preparing them to excel in their careers.
Could you share some of the memories of founding GMYT Fashion Academy
Founding GMYT Fashion Academy has been a profound journey driven by passion, vision, and resilience. Established to set a sustainable standard in African fashion education, we are dedicated to moulding the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs. By equipping our students—especially women and youth—with necessary skills and business acumen, we are shaping the industry leaders of tomorrow.
Since inception, GMYT Fashion Academy has proudly seen over 12,000 graduates who now helm successful fashion brands, clinch international awards, and shine on global platforms. Their achievements underscore the impact of our rigorous training and mentorship.
You kicked off GAHAWARDS 12 years ago, what was the purpose?
GAHAWARDS was initiated to honour outstanding social impact, innovation, and boundary-pushers worldwide. This annual celebration recognizes those who inspire societal change and global progress. The upcoming GAHAWARDS will broaden its horizon, recognizing trailblazers across diverse sectors. With a focus on global impact, we welcome partnerships that align with our mission of fostering excellence and social responsibility.
What is CEIBS Certification and what impact does it have?
Earning a Global Business Strategy certification from CEIBS has refined my strategic acumen and broadened my global business perspective, empowering me to better mentor aspiring entrepreneurs and enrich our community’s business capabilities.
…and LBS Global perspective in Business?
The Global Perspective in Business program, championed by LBS, has significantly influenced my approach to global business strategy. This experience has equipped me with advanced insights and tools to navigate international markets, enhance strategic decisions, and mentor young entrepreneurs effectively.
How well have you inspired the next generation?
My role as a leader is to embody discipline, structure, and proactive pursuit of excellence. I mentor the youth to seize their potential, emphasising that they are sufficient and capable of creating opportunities.
The GMYT Fashion Academy is committed to providing a platform for young talents through top-tier fashion education, practical experience, and a supportive network that propels them to achieve their dreams.
How do you sustain your vision and values through talent?
Our success is not only about identifying the right talent but also about cultivating a robust organisational structure where discipline and excellence thrive. This strategic approach ensures sustainability and growth.
What are your future ventures and aspirations?
Looking ahead, I am excited about expanding GMYT Fashion Academy’s influence further into the international fashion and business scene. Our goal is to platform the extraordinary talents we nurture and to foster partnerships that promote innovation and excellence in the fashion industry.
Afrocentric fashion is design that incorporates Africa’s indigenous fabrics into clothes. It draws inspiration from the African diaspora, using various textiles like adire, ankara, lace, aso-oke, kente and bogolanfin, to create unique designs and motifs.
One of the fashion icons promoting African fashion to the world is Odedina Adedamola Moyosore who is the creative force behind the designer outfit, M. Collection. Moyosore sparkled when he showcased his latest African prints, tagged, ‘Afrocentric Collection’ at Face of Goge Africa (FOGA) 2024.
This collection’s beauty lies in the fact that it introduces minimalist design with artistic flair to the timeless elegance of the traditional Ankara fabric.
Moyosore’s exceptional skills are evident in his choice of fabric, ensuring that each garment features vibrant, high-quality Ankara prints.
His ability to tailor garments that showcase the cultural heritage of a people and add depth and dimension to the minimalist designs is evident in the flawless seams, precise cuts, and finishes that define the collection.
The collection has modern gowns, blazers, crop tops, mini-skirts with pockets, high-waisted trousers, jackets, shorts, shirts, and more.
Notable pieces include a sleek long-sleeved mesh shirt with Ankara stripes, which portrays a playful yet perfect style.
The Afrocentric Collection is all made with ankara fabrics and designed to be mixed and matched allowing for endless styling possibilities.
The unveiling of this collection at the runway show captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts and industry insiders alike as they expressed admiration, acknowledging it as a standout highlight of the event.
Fashion influencer, dancer and video creator Delight Ushie popularly known as Queen Light has said that dedication is a major key to attaining success in life.
She explained that it is the level of an individuals dedication that will drive his or her consistency in the field.
The Cross River-born fashion influencer during an interview session with journalists said: “Muly dedication to getting better made me resilient despite the ups and downs that surfaced along the journey”.
Queen Light revealed that her journey was not glittering at the beginning based on some challenges: but her resilient dedication has helped her to pull through those phases of the journey.
“My social media platforms that has increasingly expand with thousands of followers is as a result of my dedication and consistency” Delight Ushie said.
Her consistent video content has served as a spring board for establishing a recognizable brand and achieving recognition within the creative community.
Queen Light’s experience as a video creator examplifies the challenges and rewards inherent in the creative pursuit; despite the obstacles her passion for storytelling and connection continues to fuel her journey.
She said: ” I find immense satisfaction in inspiring and empowering others”.
She aspires to use her platforms to uplift aspiring creatives, within Nigeria’s vibrant artistic community.
She envisions using her platforms to inspire and empower the next generation creatives, fostering a thriving artistic community.
Staying ahead of curve: Queen Light remains dedicated to staying abreast of the latest trends; incorporating them into her content while she still maintain her own unique style.
Queen Light priorities fostering a strong connection with her audience by actively soliciting their opinions and incorporating their feedback.
She ensures that her content remains relatable and continues to resonate with her followers.
The winner of Face of Democracy Nigeria (FDN) 2023 beauty pageant, Queen Onuoha Lilian Chizoba has handed over to her successor, Queen Gift Ugo, the winner of FDN 2024.
At a colourful ceremony, which coincided with the African Iconic Women Recognition Awards (AIWRA) in Abuja, Queen Chizoba expressed gratitude to the FDN brand and its founder, Alexander Ajagbonna popularly known as Fajag for the opportunity to showcase her talent and impact lives through the platform.
“My Journey As Face Of Democracy Nigerian Queen was a memorable one. It provided me with opportunity for personal growth as well as development, harnessing numerous potentials, impacting lives positively and showcasing the true essence of democracy through my various humanitarian projects.
“Special appreciation go the brand for a year filled with support in all its ramifications,” she stated.
She also congratulated the incoming queen, Gift Ugo and expressed hope that her reign will be an inspiring one.
She also expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her journey and prayed God to see them through in all their endeavours.
Fikayomi Agbola is a fashion designer passionate about ensuring African fashion continues to have a large place on the global stage with her brand BITTANY inspired by a high school moniker and birthed from disappointments from her neighbourhood tailors now symbolises the spirit of perseverance and creativity. She speaks with Kehinde Oluleye on her brand, business challenges and vision for the future. Excerpts:
What or who inspired the creation of BITTANY and why the name?
The Bittany journey began with a series of disappointments from tailors especially for my custom-made outfits orders growing up, a common tale many Nigerians and Non-Nigerians can relate to. I saw this as an opportunity to transform my frustration around – talk about making lemonades! And that’s how it all started – as a hobby at first and then it blossomed into a passion for fashion designing.
I learned to sew female designs at the age of 16 so I made fashion a constant side hobby while I focused on uni. I studied Economics at the University of Ibadan where I continued to nurture my passion, crafting garments for friends, family, and myself. During holidays as well, I would practice making clothes with my mum’s fabrics.
The name Bittany originated from my high school moniker. It’s a funny long story but it stuck, and I’ve adopted the name. Over time, Bittany evolved from a moniker to a full-fledged identity which now symbolises perseverance, embodying the spirit of transformation and the celebration of African heritage and style.
What’s your start-up story?
BITTANY’s start up story began in 2017, right after my NYSC program. Despite starting my career in a consulting firm, my passion for fashion never waned. I wanted hands-on experience in the business of fashion so I applied for fashion related jobs. I was opportune to manage a fashion house for a year, where I soaked up invaluable insights. I became a chartered accountant the same year but my focus on fashion never faltered and I believed that my background in accounting, economics, and fashion would eventually align.
BITTANY started as me making clothes for friends and family and locally sourcing all fabrics used. I remember my first collection was in partnership with a friend who wanted to resell, and I was super excited to make all the clothes. One of the highlights of Bittany’s second year, at the time Bittany Couture was being given the opportunity to make a few outfits for female hosts on a TV show airing on Africa Magic. I was over the moon – I worked tirelessly using my mom’s old sewing machines to bring the designs to life. My mum used to make us clothes when we were younger and her old sewing machines were always in the backyard somewhere so that’s really my start-up story – with my mum’s machine, in my parent’s house.
Host, Mirah Balogun on TV show
Asides making lemonades from lemons and the passion for fashion, what else was your mission from the outset and what is your mission now?
At the very beginning, I just really wanted to make beautiful designs that fitted well on women as that was my pain point and then as time went on, I’ve been driven by a desire to shine a spotlight on the rich tapestry of fashion from Africa, showcasing its beauty and diversity. We design for mostly women but now design for men and children as well. I have been inspired by the trailblazers and upcoming designers in the industry all over the world and across the continent. I’m particularly glad that the world is now recognising the amazing talent emerging from the Nigerian fashion space as well.
Just like anything in life, Bittany is also evolving. I rebranded Bittany 3 years ago after moving to the UK as I saw an opportunity to bridge a gap in bringing contemporary afrocentric fashion to the forefront. I have also since developed an interest in sustainability and we are now incorporating sustainable methods such as upcycling in our production to ensure that production is ethical – slowly but surely.
Bittany isn’t just about creating stunning, well-fitting garments, we have embraced the core values of what fashion should embody – it’s about empowering people of all shapes and sizes to embrace their individuality with confidence. I want my journey to serve as a beacon of inspiration for young people, demonstrating that success can stem from passion and dedication, regardless of formal education. Additionally, I envision Bittany as a platform for social change, with ambitions to become a significant employer and contribute to poverty alleviation and community empowerment. One of my goals is to establish a youth empowerment program that offers free sewing vocational training, targeting young people especially women from less privileged backgrounds, enabling them to gain financial independence and positively impact their communities. Many artisans, especially in developing countries, face economic challenges and limited opportunities to showcase their craft and earn a sustainable livelihood. By empowering artisans financially, we can preserve traditional art forms, support local communities, and promote cultural heritage preservation.
What would you say is unique about your brand?
We pride ourselves on our approach to fabric fusion and creating contemporary styles that celebrate the African culture. We blend traditional African aesthetics with modern design sensibilities to offer our customers something captivating. Bittany offers a diverse range of designs, spanning from every day wear to occasion wear, including both ready-to-wear and custom-made pieces. We believe this variety empowers our customers to curate a wardrobe that reflects their unique style preferences, ensuring they cherish and wear their garments for longer periods. This approach promotes a sustainable ethos, encouraging conscious consumption and reducing fashion waste.
Who is Bittany for?
Bittany primarily caters to women, empowering them to look and feel confident. However, our tagline, “Be unapologetically unique” reflects our inclusive approach. Bittany is for anyone who dares to express themselves boldly and authentically through fashion, regardless of gender or age. From custom-made designs to ready-to-wear, there’s something for everyone at Bittany.
Since starting and rebranding Bittany, what are your greatest achievements so far?
Bittany has achieved some milestones that I’m incredibly proud of. One of the highlights in our second year, 2018 was designing and making outfits for female presenters on a show airing on Africa Magic. I’ve also been opportune to design for a few notable celebrities –like Temi Otedola, Don Jazzy and DJ Cuppy. In 2021, we increasingly served the UK market and more recently in 2023, we launched our e-commerce website where we ship world-wide and launched our first physical store in Lagos, Nigeria. Since 2023, we have launched 3 collections one of which we showcased on the runway of the Prestigious Africa Fashion Week, London in October 2023. The goal is to keep establishing a strong brand identity and making significant strides that will clearly demonstrate growth and impact within the community.
Cuppy Otedola in Bittany DesignBittany Store in Lagos, Nigeria
Can you share some success habits or tips that have helped you?
I’ve learned the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning on this journey. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of professionals, family and friends has been invaluable. Additionally, staying true to my values, maintaining a positive mindset, and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth have been key success habits that have propelled me forward.
What can we expect to see from Bittany going forward?
By God’s grace, I aim to introduce Bittany to a more global audience via our e-commerce website and collaborate more with brands with similar ethos to mine. I look forward to partnering with retailers to stock Bittany’s designs to also make it more accessible. And potentially have another physical store soon too which will serve as a springboard for further growth, as we continue to innovate, collaborate, and advocate for sustainability in the fashion industry. Bittany’s sister company – Kayomi is also in the development phase so stay glued and come along on this journey with us! You can read more about Kayomi here.
If you could offer a piece of advice to someone just starting out, what would it be?
When it comes to starting out, my best advice is to embrace the idea of starting small and refining your approach as you go. Dive into resources like “The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries, which offers invaluable insights into building a business efficiently. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help and guidance along the way; people are often more willing to lend a hand than you might think. But above all, never lose sight of your vision and believe in yourself wholeheartedly. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs, but staying true to your purpose and persevering through challenges is key to eventual success.
Aisha Ochuwa Group Limited, established by Aisha Ochuwa Tella, continues to stand tall in the forefront of excellence, fanning elegance to customers through passion, in Nigeria and Africa’s fashion industry.
Aisha Ochuwa Group Limited, which comprises Aisha Ochuwa Jewellery Limited, Aisha Ochuwa Luxury Limited and Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Limited comes as unrivalled conglomerate in the jewellery business, driving taste, luxury, class and creativity through the different subsidiaries.
Aisha Ochuwa Group Limited is a deep reflection of the excellence its three arms have gone on to build in the categories of business and trade they have each mastered. Their underlying purpose is to pioneer classic styles, quality, innovation and promote entrepreneurship.
Aisha Ochuwa Group Limited is a household name in Nigeria’s fashion circle, and so is the subsidiaries, created to further drive the brilliance, greatness, superiority and distinction the umbrella brand is known for in the country and beyond over the years. It conceived the smaller brands to drive the vision they are individually established for, and without fail, uncompromisingly satisfy the taste of customers and enable them explore creativity, in the jewellery class they belong.
Aisha Ochuwa Jewellery Limited handles the production and sale of stainless steel jewellery. The ancillary create buzz for accessory lovers with irresistible assortment of stainless steel watches and jewellery, in both wholesale and retail, for both categories of customers. The sub-brand offers affordability in glamour, confidence and style. It is a hub for blending artistry, crafting high-quality stainless steel jewellery and watches that blend with charm and grandeur. Aisha Ochuwa Jewellery Limited is most importantly distinct for meeting highest standards of quality, with guaranteed lifespan of a lifetime.
Aisha Ochuwa Luxury Limited is the service centre for clients who have appetite for pure gold, natural diamonds, certified fine silver, and moissanite jewellery. For high-class societal clients, it handles special custom orders on request, specifically crafted according to their preference. The firm is renowned for innovative designs, premium materials and beautiful craftsmanship. With over 13 years of designing experience, its artistry is a secret charm that has endeared clients to it.
The Aisha Ochuwa Group Limited boss leaves no doubts about being a great visioner on the idea to conceive Bespoke by Aisha Ochuwa Limited. It is the last brainchild in her poaches. It is the jewellery academy that teaches customisation of different designs of jewellery, powered by the use of production tools and wire works, in the process called “Bench Jewellery”. The production process does not involve the use of fire, which makes it completely safe. Aisha Ochuwa Group Limited is raising a generation of tomorrow’s Jewellers, in this impactful knowledge centre.
When Agatha Eric-Udorie founded Agatha Interior Design in 1994, little did she know the business would outlive her.
Recently, the design and lifestyle-driven company marked its 30th anniversary and Agatha, the Chief Executive Officer and founder used the opportunity to rebrand and unveil the next director for the brand.
“Today is the 30th year celebration of Agatha’s Interior Design Limited and also the re-branding of the Agatha logo. If you know us very well, we were blue and yellow but now we have rebranded to soft pink, brown Russian red, burgundy and green – moving from the old to the new,” Agatha said as she began the story of her firm.
Agatha, who was trained as a nurse before following her passion for interior decor, explained that her daughter is set to take over the brand and set the future direction.
“I have a young daughter who just graduated from the University of the Arts, London and she read Interior Design while I have done 30 years and she is coming on board, she wants to have her colours. And then, change is constant and I am also happy to rebrand. I am almost 60 years old and I am trying to be young. So, the colours that are associated with youngsters are the colours I have accepted. We are all trying to look fresh and those colours are fresh,” she said.
Agatha acknowledged that the success of her brand is as a result of eye for detail, quality control, and tenacity saying, “What is standing for us continuously is that I have an eye for detail. I know what to choose. I can go to the Mushin market and choose a fabric. If I were to pay for that fabric in the UK, I would probably be paying for it at 60 pounds per metre but I get it for N6,000 here. So, you must have an eye for details, be consistent and you must love what you do.
Continuing, she said, “We have quality control and the process involves almost everyone to ensure that everything we are producing is of high quality. We have our sales head, who has been working in the company for 20 years and her eyes are spectacular. She is always checking the details. What I do not see, she sees. She checks the stitches and all my staff contribute to the decoration of a client’s home.”
Having been inspired by Phil Makenzie, who ran a furniture firm in the ‘90s and the late Franco Gassani, Agatha says she eats, breathes interior decor and design.
“Let me be sincere with you. I eat, sleep, wake up and design.” she quipped.
Agatha, who began her career in the interior decor industry out of passion but later returned to the four walls of higher learning to acquire more knowledge advised upcoming practitioners to acquire professional training before venturing into the business. First of all, I will advise you to go to a design school and secondly, ensure to find an interior design mentor. Thirdly, always have a good business plan.”
For Laju Iren, stories have the power to change minds by targeting hearts. The filmmaker, author, book writing coach, and pastor at Celebration Church International is redefining Nollywood with meaningful messages and impactful storytelling. Inspired by a desire to create stories that entertain and carry deep values, Laju infuses her work with her faith with the support of her husband, Emmanuel Iren, Laju navigates her roles as a filmmaker and a pastor’s wife in the vibrant city of Lagos with grace and determination. She speaks with ADENIYI ADEWOYIN.
What inspired you to become a filmmaker, and how does your faith influence your storytelling?
I became a filmmaker because I wanted to make the kind of stories that I wanted to watch. I love films but I realized there are many stories out there that might be entertaining but don’t carry the values that I want me and my children to see. And I know that it’s possible for stories to be both entertaining, inspiring, value driven and morally driven. So, I was inspired to be a filmmaker because of the kind of stories that I wanted to see. Of course, my faith influences my storytelling a lot. From when I started writing poems as a child to when I started writing short stories, my faith has always been a huge influence. My faith changed me, and I know that it also has the capacity to change lives. Another interesting thing is that Jesus was a brilliant storyteller. The Bible is filled with lots of stories buttressing this.
I also believe that stories change our minds by targeting our hearts. In other words, if people hear stories they can relate to, they are more likely to be influenced by that story. Sometimes when you’re watching a film with a bad guy you can relate with, you’d be praying for him not to get caught. On a normal day, you wouldn’t side with a thief but because of the things the storyteller has presented to you – the good aspects of this person, how they treat their family, the reason why they are stealing- you’re rooting for the thief. There’s just something about stories that make people seem relatable even when we might be very different from them. So, I also like to tell stories because stories change our minds by targeting our hearts.
How do you balance your roles as a filmmaker and as a pastor’s wife, especially in a vibrant city like Lagos?
I do a lot of things – I’m a pastor, I’m a pastor’s wife, I’m an author, I’m a book writing coach, I’m a mom, I’m a wife- and I will say that God really helps me. I think there’s a lot of grace involved. God has really en-graced me to do all that I do.
The second thing is, I do have very strong support systems in my husband, parents, parents-in-law, my support staff and my team in my company. There’s a lot of support. It takes an entire village that I’m very grateful for. I also try to check in with the core people in my life and adjust when need be. If I notice that I haven’t really spent time with my children or husband as much as I should, I work on it. I try to gauge how I’m spending my life per time. Sometimes, I get really busy in a particular area of my life, and I try to readjust. It’s like when you’re driving, you’re not driving straight all the time. Sometimes you need to swerve a bit more depending on what direction you are going.
Another thing I’m learning is that I cannot be everything to everybody at the same time. I prioritize my family as much as possible even though I also try to prioritize work. I make sure as much as possible to do myself the things that only I can do for my kids and husband and for the things people can help me do, I’m open to help and support.
I also work really hard. I think hard work is also a major factor. I’m thankful to enjoy what I do. I wouldn’t agree that you won’t have to work a day in your life if you enjoy what you do. I think it just makes it easier and more exciting. And, even though I enjoy what I do, I don’t do all of them at the same time all the time. Sometimes I put some things on the back burner so I can do some other things.
Can you share a memorable experience from one of your film projects that profoundly impacted you or your audience?
There are so many moments but one comes to mind now. I was going through a tweet a while back and the major tweet asked people how they became born again. Someone responded on how she had seen my film, Loving Amanda, and as result of seeing the film, she decided she wanted to become born again and know God better. To have memorable experiences like that is so powerful. I’ve seen people who say, “Watching your film, During Ever After, the series, saved my marriage.” Hearing the testimonies of how our stories are changing lives, is so impactful for me, much more than any award or recognition.
In your opinion, how can films be used as a tool for social change, particularly in a religiously diverse and culturally rich society like Nigeria?
I think that when people make films, even though they should be entertaining, we need to look beyond the entertainment and realize that films can make an impact. The way people dress and speak in films can affect the way people do these things in their daily lives. The values we portray in films can affect the kind of values people will mirror back. I think it’s important, especially for Christian storytellers, that we realize the impact we have the capacity to make. One thing that irks me is the fact that many times when you see Christians being portrayed in films, they are usually the ones being pretentious, extremely judgmental or not doing what they are supposed to do. I feel like when it comes to the representation of Christianity in storytelling, it’s in the movies that Christians and pastors are usually misrepresented. It irks me because there are pastors who have gone out of their way to be there for Church members. If you ask many Christians the impact that their pastors have made in their lives, you’d be surprised. Many have come out of depression, had an education, beat habits, had fatherly/ motherly love and care because of their pastors. But, whenever you see a pastor portrayed in many films, he’s usually fake. It makes me wonder why the 1% should represent the 99%.So, we need better representation of faith, the Church and the Kingdom of God as we know it. We need better representation of marriages and families. We can’t keep complaining that the world isn’t doing it our own way. It’s the world’s responsibility to do things their way and our responsibility to show the Kingdom way.
What challenges have you faced as a female filmmaker in Nigeria, and how have you overcome them?
I think that Nollywood in many ways is an industry for women. Since the three years that I’ve been here, I haven’t experienced anyone doubting my abilities because I am a woman. If you come into the industry, you can easily count tons of female filmmakers. I think that those who went ahead have done a good job of paving the way.
I haven’t found any disadvantages to me as a person because I am a woman… not in Nollywood because a lot of people in the business are women. We may not have as many women in the technical fields as men but we have a lot of female directors. There are some female DOPs, many female producers, and many people in the distribution business who are women. I think it really is our time as women in Nollywood. For me, the industry has been kind. Of course, there are challenges of filmmaking in Nigeria but I haven’t had any challenges peculiar to me because I am a woman.
Your work often delves into complex themes. How do you approach the process of weaving these narratives into your films?
I like simple stories but I think that at the core human beings are complex so I always try to start from the known to unknown. So, it might be a story about redemption or about guilt but I start telling my story from relatable happenings, feelings and emotions. So, I move from the known to the unknown. But I think I generally tell relatively simple stories because I want people to be able to relate. So, it’s really about inspiring people in the long run.
How do you think the Nigerian film industry (Nollywood) has evolved over the years, and what role do you see yourself playing in its future?
That’s such a marvelous question. I still remember the VCD era, when we used to go rent them, watching Rita Dominic, Desmond Elliot, Jim Iyke and others on TV. I remember when the cinemas came out; I don’t think I had the chance to go to a cinema until I was an adult. I remember that I was a child when Silverbird first opened up their cinemas and I remember thinking, “Wow, I haven’t seen anything like this before. How does this thing work?” And so, my parents told me about the good old days when there were some cinemas that worked in Nigeria but they closed down. And then we evolved there from the DSTV age to the age of streamers where we now have people all over the world watching Nigerian films. I think it’s been so powerful but I think there’s even more. I think it doesn’t hurt to see more money invested in Nigerian films. I’m grateful about the evolution of the film industry and I think we’re getting better. Nigerian and non-Nigerian film makers have also learnt to make money from YouTube. But it will be really good to see better funding for films, even much bigger offers for Nollywood films as well as various other distribution methods because it seems most of us are focusing on just streamers at this time. It will be nice to see the process being democratized such that new film makers can come and have better opportunities. YouTube is already doing that and with our virtual premiere, we are hoping it’s a line that more young filmmakers can tow.
As someone who is deeply connected to spirituality, how do you navigate the portrayal of religious themes in your films to ensure they resonate with a diverse audience?
I think we have to understand that when it comes to the subject of God, people are not as ignorant as we’d like to think. Almost everybody in Nigeria is deeply religious. So, I feel we must rid ourselves of the notion that religious things are unrelatable. Everyone knows someone that’s either a Christian or Muslim in their family and friends circle. So, religious things are relatable things because statistics prove that Nigerians are a religious people. But I think when it all comes down to it, when I pursue stories, my desire is to portray Christ and His ideologies and that resonates with so many people; what we have to do is ensure we are telling the stories in a relatable way.
Eternity has been planted in the hearts of everyone and whether we like it or not, people think about God more than they’d like to admit. And, it’s not just Christian stories we’re writing, we’re talking about love, life and these are things that people relate with.
How do you think your perspective as a filmmaker has influenced your community, both within and outside your congregation?
I think people are beginning to see the kind of stories they’ve always wanted to see with the work we do. There’s been a huge desire and a lot of people are interested in seeing Christian content in recent times. So, when people see what we do, it’s something that resonates with them and they are excited to be a part of.
What advice would you give to aspiring filmmakers, especially those who want to infuse their work with meaningful messages?
I would say start with what you have. I made my first film with about N600,000 and more than half of that was sponsorship from a friend’s brand. Start with what you have. What are the connections you have too? The next thing will be to keep training, improving and being as excellent as you can be. Another thing to know is that you are not making stories that people don’t want to hear but need to hear, you are making stories people want and need to hear. Any time there is a film that goes viral and goes against the tenets of our Christian faith, there’s such a wild uproar because people know it shouldn’t be done. The number of people speaking out against these things show that there’s a market for us; we must understand this- that there is a market for us.
I feel that Christian storytellers need to embrace the business side of things. You can’t really capture an industry if you haven’t captured the economy. Focus on the business side of things. Also, don’t do substandard work because it’s a Christian film. Because our God is excellent. As a Christian storyteller, you should follow suit.
What is it like to be the wife to one of the most popular pastors in Nigeria?
I consider it an honor to be married to my husband not just because he is popular, but because he’s a great guy. He’s such a wonderful individual. I’ve known him for nearly 2 decades- since 2007- and he’s been consistent in character and growing in doctrine. And, he really does care about the Lord and His people. I feel for me, that is the catch.
I always tell people, “Don’t just marry the office, marry the man.” So, I’m very grateful to be married to such a great guy. I’m thankful that the work that He has done and the work we continue to do is getting the attention of people because it means that more people are getting to experience progress as joy in the faith. And whatever comes with the assignment, God has prepared us for it .So we will succeed regardless.
What’s the highest role religion can play in our society?
I think we have to understand that there is a God and we are not Him. Before society was, Godwas. It is He that made us and not us ourselves. So, I think we must take a bearing from what God will have us do based on His Word rather than expecting Him to take a bearing from the Society. We are made for Him and not Him for us. So, if we are really going to achieve our highest calling and fulfill our greatest potential, we must look to the person from whence they came. Heaven and Earth will pass away but the Word of God will still remain.
What is the future like for Laju Iren films?
Well, in the near future, we are making our film – Mistakenly Yours- hoping to sell 50,000 tickets and make 250 million naira. So, let’s start from there and we’d move on to making global impact and global stories, telling billions of people around the world inspiring stories, creatively told, and making billions while at it to tell even more stories and empower more of the Lord’s storytellers.
What are your hobbies?
The same things I do for work are the same things I do for fun. But I really love to watch movies, I like to read, I like to write and I love spending time with my family. Because I am a new mom, I’ll also say sleeping; even though people say sleeping is not a hobby. But I feel like when I have the opportunity to sleep, it’s a gift, it gives me.
The OZA Woman Fashion Show which held over the weekend in place in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria served as a vibrant tapestry of modern fashion trends and cultural expressions.
The fashion show tagged “Rising Threads” was put in place to showcase Innovative Designers and celebrate emerging Fashion Brands.
Among the array of brands showcased, one stood out for its innovative take on African fashion landscape.
Taking center stage at the runway event was Mo’re Signatures, a dynamic label that captured the essence of contemporary style with flair and finesse.
Under the visionary leadership of Creative Director and Founder Mary Oluwaseun Akinbiodun, Mo’re Signatures showcased her OWAMBE” Collections.
The Collection was inspired by the importance and richness of Africa parties especially the Western Part of Nigeria, The Yorubas.
The grace and carriage that Africa wears symbolizes during parties giving the Rich Aunties vibes.
Mo’re Signatures Owambe collection embodies the spirit of individuality and self-expression that defines the current fashion scene. Each garment is a testament to the brands commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
With a focus on sustainability and ethical production practices, Mo’re Signatures demonstrates a dedication to responsible fashion that resonates with todays socially conscious consumer.
“I look forward to exploring and making Corporate Wears with Africa Prints in a way that showcases where Tradition Meets Innovation. I want to continue infusing Africa Prints into Contemporary styles, making simple and Chic ready to wear for the family,” Akinbiodun gushed.
