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Tag: Bolanle Olukanni

  • Bolanle Olukanni, Tee A to host NECLive 2025

    Bolanle Olukanni, Tee A to host NECLive 2025

    NECLive organisers have confirmed that celebrated media personality Bolanle Olukanni and entertainer Tee A (Tunde Adewale) will co-host NECLive 2025, scheduled to hold on November 28, 2025, in Lagos.

    The duo will bring their signature charisma, wit, and expertise to guide conversations across the conference’s multi-segment format, including keynotes, panel discussions, live performances, Q&As, workshops, and innovation showcases.

    Having previously hosted NECLive in 2021 and 2022, Bolanle makes her return to the conference for the third time. A renowned television host and filmmaker, she is recognized for her work on popular shows such as Project Fame West Africa, The Juice, and Moments with Mo. Beyond her on-screen success, Bolanle is well-respected for her creativity, interview style, and social impact advocacy which have made her one of Africa’s most trusted media voices.

    “For over a decade, NECLive has consistently delivered impactful conversations and showcased the best of our industry,” said Bolanle. “The organisers have curated a truly great platform and I am happy to be a part of it.”

    READ ALSO: Five smart ways Nigerians in Diaspora grow local ventures

    Joining her is veteran event compere Tee A, who returns to NECLive for a record eighth time. A pioneer in Nigeria’s stand-up comedy scene and a much sought-after corporate event host, Tee A is renowned for his incredible wit, comedic timing, poise, and deep industry knowledge. The veteran brings his magnetic presence and authentic connection with audiences to the most defining industry gathering of the year. His proven expertise and deep understanding of the creative landscape makes him an ideal anchor for NECLive 2025 which holds under the “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise” theme.

    “It’s always a pleasure being part of this dream that continues to shape and propel our creative industry ecosystem,” said Tee A. “I’m honored to host this year’s event, and I look forward to delivering another exceptional experience as we continue this remarkable journey.”

  • It’s tough to be a woman – Bolanle Olukanni

    It’s tough to be a woman – Bolanle Olukanni

    Popular media personality, Bolanle Olukanni has narrowed down one of a woman’s attributes to alertness.

    She explained that womanhood is tough as women have to live in a constant state of consciousness.

    Bolanle noted that men do not understand how women have to be at an alert at all times.

    Speaking of herself, she said she is always aware of her surroundings. She always turns around to check if she’s being followed by anyone whenever she is walking into her hotel room.

    She also stated that when an artisan comes to her house to fix something, she always positions at the nearest exit.

    According to Bolanle, it’s part of the reality of having to protect herself.

    Read Also: Samuel Micheal opens up on experience at Mr International Philippines

    In her words: “Being a woman is tough. I don’t think men actually understand that we live in a constant state of alertness. I am always aware of my surroundings. When I’m walking to my hotel room, I turn around to check that no one is following me.

    “If an artisan comes to my house to fix something, I am always close to the door and not in a position where I can’t run if need be. I often will pretend there is someone else in the house by calling out someone’s name like “oh the plumber is here.” It’s part of the reality of having to protect yourself. Because you just don’t know.

    “1 out of 3 women have been sexually assaulted or physically abused. That’s a heartbreaking statistic. Not sure why so many men (if 1 out of 3 women are abused, does this mean 1 out of 3 men are abusers?) think they should power over someone else’s body. I will never understand it.”

  • Amstel Malta Awards Samson Itodo ‘Young Person of the Year’ at Future Awards

    Amstel Malta has awarded Samson Itodo as the Young Person of the Year at the 2018 Future Awards Africa for his role in promoting the ‘Not Too Young To Run’ bill.

    Amstel Malta has for a long time, continued to play an active role in uplifting core lifestyle interests of Nigerians’ like in film and fitness with platforms such as the Amstel Malta Box Office, Act The Part online competition, Amstel Malta Showtime, and support of events like the AMVCAs, FitFamFest and Okpekpe Race among others.

    The Award Ceremony which held at the Balmoral, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos on December 16, 2018 was hosted by media personality Bolanle Olukanni and former Big Brother Naija housemate, Tobi Bakre.

    Speaking on the ceremony, the Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc., Emmanuel Oriakhi, said: “Amstel Malta, is proud to be a part of this process of rewarding young Nigerians for their efforts in their individual journeys. It is quite important for us to encourage Nigerians to be their best no matter where they find themselves.  We have big plans in place and we urge everyone to prepare for the greater things ahead.”

    The Future Awards, which was launched in 2005, rewards deserving young Nigerians and Africans who have carved a niche for themselves in their chosen field. The awards celebrate young people who have made outstanding achievements in the year.

  •  South African Tourism hosts RMD, Seyi Shay, others

     South African Tourism hosts RMD, Seyi Shay, others

    South African Tourism West Africa recently organized an eight-day tour to South Africa for top celebrities to explore the beautiful sceneries and culture of the country. The fun-filled, eight-day experience focused on the Western Cape Province.

    From helicopter rides to elephant rides, the trip was indeed activity filled and memorable. The guests that were taken on the trip, this time around, included Richard Mofe Damijo, John Dumelo, Francis Doku, Seyi Shay, Arese Ugwu, Bolanle Olukanni and Idia Aisien.

    The journey began with the South African Airways flight which the Nigerian and Ghanaian group boarded from Lagos and Accra respectively. The flight which lasted only 6 hours was smooth and comfortable so that by the time the guests landed in from O.R. Tambo International airport, they were ready to board their connecting 1hr45mins flight to Georgesituated in the Western Cape Province of South Africa.

    Upon arrival, their adventure began. They headed to the Bergsig Game farm where the guests boarded helicopters and went on private helicopter rides where they got to see a panoramic view of the beautiful city. From an altitude of over 8000ft over sea level, the guests were able to view the greenery, mountains and animals.

    Next up, the guests got to visit the Nyaru game lodge situated in the heart of garden route a mere, 30 minute drive from the George airport. The Nyaru game lodge provides a traditional restaurant that comes complete with a fireplace. The crew got the opportunity of enjoying the authentic African bush breakfast on the outdoor deck against nature’s very own picturesque backdrop.

    The next day, the group went on a visit to a small town called Knysna located along South Africa’s famed garden route.  The town is most famous for its oyster festival, warm people and the most magnificent views from Leisure Isle to the Knysna Heads. The guests’ first activity on arrival involved a power boat ride through the Knysna heads and down the Knsyna estuary! The Knysna waters are cool and clean making it a safe spot for speed boating.

    On their last day in the beautiful city of George, the guests visited the Elephant Sanctuary located at Crags, Plettenberg Bay!  The guests enjoyed a very intimate experience with the elephants as they got to ride the elephants taking in the view once again at an extended height. This time around, at the height of over 3,3m which is the height of an African elephant. Some of the guests also went on walks with the elephants leading them by their trunks.

    On their last night in George, the guests got treated to dinner on a boat cruise where they set sail on the calm Knysna Lagoon. Champagne, cocktails mixed with seafood and yummy cuisine was the order of the day as they looked forward to what would be a new adventure in the city of Capetown the next day.

    The anticipation for what was to come was built on the 50mins flight to Capetown from George and the guests looked on in anticipation to what Cape Town had to offer. The first activity the guests embarked upon was to explore Robben Island! Guests got the opportunity to intimately experience a segment in the life of one of Africa’s biggest legends and Nobel Peace prize Laureate, Nelson Mandela. They got the privilege of being inside what was his prison cell for 18 of his 21year sentence. They got to see the tally marks he made inside the cell as that was his way of keeping record of his time in prison. He counted the days stroke by stroke for all his 18 years of imprisonment in the cell.

    Outside the cell, they were introduced to the limestone quarry where Mandela and the other cell mates had to break cement manually with sledge hammers every day for the duration of his imprisonment. It was a bitter sweet moment as the guests gained increased respect and admiration for the African Icon.

    Vroom vroom! It was adventure time once more for the crew. In grand style, they rode on Harley Davidson bikes from Signal Hillto the wine lands located in Groot constantia Landgoed estate. Here, they were introduced to the process of Wine making.Founded in 1685, It Groot Constantia is one of South Africa’s oldest wine farms and a part of Cape Town’s big 7 top attractions! Here, the guests enjoyed the offerings of history, culture and of course, the unique blend of centuries old, ultra-premium cool climate wines.

    No visit to Capetown is complete without a visit to the iconic landmark which also serves as one of the World’s seven wonders. If you guessed Table Mountain, you certainly guessed right. Sitting at a height of over 3,653ft, the guests were treated to cable rides to the top of mountain as they watched on in amazement at the breath taking view of the entire city of Capetown! From the infinitely laid green landscape to the vineyards and surrounding mountains and hill tops the guests were held spell-bound.

    The 2-day Cape Town Jazz Festival was in session while the guests were in the mother city of Cape Town so they got the privilege of attending the festival. This festival plays host to thousands of Jazz lovers across the globe every year with world class acts performing on stage. The smooth rhythm and blues from renowned acts such as Nomfundo Xaluva, Mango groove, Digable planets, Andra day, Camillo Lombard and a host of many more ended their last night in the Western Cape Province.

    It was a bitter-sweet exit as the guests ended their tour knowing that this was only the beginning of more adventures to come. From family visits to bringing friends and spouses, they all vowed to return with their loved ones as there are so many more activities available in the beautiful country. The accessibility and affordability that South Africa presents also helped seal the deal!

     

     

  • BOLANLE OLUKANNI : My career is a journey, not a hustle

    BOLANLE OLUKANNI : My career is a journey, not a hustle

    Bolanle Olukanni was raised in Nigeria, Israel, Kenya and America by her Diplomat dad who also practised as a communication expert. The TV host of Moments with Mo on DSTV and co-host of the hit reality music show, MTN Project fame West Africa, is fashionable and talented.
    In this interview with YETUNDE OLADEINDE, she talks about life with project fame, turning points in her career, the things that inspire her and more.

    What inspires you to do the things that you do?

    I would say that I am inspired by the growing entertainment industry and the leaps and bounds it has made since it started. I am glad that I get to be part of it and by being a presenter and producer I am contributing to its growth.

    What is life as presenter like, and how long have you been doing this?

    It’s been a really amazing experience. For me, it is natural and I thoroughly enjoy presenting and it has become a way of life for me.

    Let’s talk about some interesting moments on Project Fame

    For me, it has been a very interesting experience. Last season had so many highlights. For example, we had that hilarious contestant from Ibadan that kept calling the show MTN projection. And then we also had Falz the Badh Guy come as a guest commentator. I really look forward to this season and it promises to be a memorable experience.

    Some of the moments were truly hilarious, how do you keep a straight face or maintain your professional mien?

    The preliminary auditions are fun and we get so many people turn out all in hopes of becoming the super star. Regardless of how funny the auditions can be, it’s so inspiring to see people pursue their dreams.

    How is the experience working with Mo Abudu or even drawing comparisons with somebody of her stature?

    Mo Abudu is a force of nature. She has so much passion and vigour for her calling and I have been really lucky to be part of the media empire that she has built.

    Tell us about the turning point in your career

    There have been multiple turning points along the way. First, I would say that starting off my career by getting a gig like Moments with Mo was a huge feat. It was my very first presenting job and it was exciting hosting a show alongside a seasoned TV host like Mo Abudu. Another major highlight was starting my own show, “On the Carpet with Bolinto”, overnight and gradually I went from being a presenter to becoming an executive producer. Also I would say that another major highlight for me was winning the Future Award prize for “On- Air Personality of the Year (Visual).

    Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your career?

    I am constantly influenced by the desire to remain true to myself. It has been my major driving force. People I look up to have been the most successful because they know who they are and they share that with the world.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    Apart from being in the entertainment sector and enjoying what I do, I also like to touch lives and make an impact in my community. So, I am on the board of directors for the Self-worth Organisation. It’s an NGO that provides empowerment and skills acquisition training for widows and single mothers. I am really passionate about the livelihood of widows as I have seen that they are a forgotten group in society.

     What is your definition of style?

    My style is a reflection of art. When I am getting dressed, I am quite selective and I see what I am wearing as a piece of art. Usually, I am creating an expression of my artistic side through my clothes.

    What are the items that you treasure most in your wardrobe?

    My white sneakers; they are comfortable but yet so stylish.

    If you had to advise young people, what would you tell them?

    There are so many things that I would like to tell them but the most important is: Be wise while you are young. It’s important to be willing to try new things and take the risks because it’s in this process of trying that we learn what we like, what we are good at and where our true passions lie.

     How do you relax?

    I really enjoy reading books and lately I enjoy tweeting a lot. It’s a different way to express my thoughts 🙂

     What is the secret of looking good?

    People who are happy look good. The most important thing to me is that I am at peace with myself. When people ask me why I am always smiling, it’s because I take care of my emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

    What are the principles that guide you as a professional?

    I view my career as a journey and not a hustle or race. Therefore, I make all my decisions based on integrity and any decision I make I ask myself – in five years time, can I look back and be proud of the person I am?

    Give us a peep into your background

    I graduated from Loyola University, Chicago, USA, with Honours in a double degree, of BA Communications and BA International Studies, after which I decided to do my own part in contributing to the development of the country. I moved back to Nigeria to do my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and spent the year working for a non-profit organisation in Ekiti State.

    In 2013, I won the ‘Search for Mo’s Co-host’ competition out of all hopefuls across Africa. In the process, I have interviewed a variety of inspiring and influential celebrities and politicians such as Oscar-nominated actor Chiwetel Ejiofor, Babatunde Raji Fashola and many others.

    Let’s talk about love; what does it means to you and would you say it has been fair to you?

    I have a biblical perspective on love – I don’t believe love is a feeling but a decision. It’s the choice to submit to another human being and love them despite their inadequacies. Love is a place where you learn to become less selfish and more selfless.

    What are your relationship or marriage goals?

    When the time is right it will happen. Everything in life has its due course.

    Let’s talk about the other things that occupy your time

    I am also really passionate about creating content. Once I started producing “ON the carpet with Bolinto”, I realised there was a need for content and that there is a world of options for creating new shows and I became really excited about it. I developed a media company with my business partner called Sage & Walls and we began producing shows outside of “On the Carpet”. Aside from “On the Carpet”, we also have a show called “Introducing” which showcases up and coming talents in the art scene. I am currently working on some other new productions that should come out this year.

    Who are your role models and mentors?

    I have a few role models that I look up to for a variety of things. One person I look up to is Mo Abudu . She has revolutionized the movie industry in an amazing way and has really propelled African film further onto the international scene. I also look up to Zain Asher – her story and journey of becoming a CNN correspondent is very inspiring and it’s shows you that time , patience and hard work will get you far .

    How would you describe our designers today?

    Nigerian designers are so inspiring. The industry has grown so much and they have really provided a solution to the decline in importing clothes. Despite the shaky infrastructure we have they are resilient and are creating amazing pieces. I am always wearing Nigerian designs and I am always so proud when I see Nigerian designers going global.

  • Bolanle Olukanni joins Joseph Benjamin on MTN Project Fame West Africa as co-host

    Bolanle Olukanni joins Joseph Benjamin on MTN Project Fame West Africa as co-host

    It was a night of glamour and suspense as the seventh season of the talent hunt show, MTN Project Fame West Africa, officially kicked off with the Opening Gala at the weekend.

    Activities for the night were set in motion with standup comedian, Seyi Law, who took up the centre stage to do what he knows how to do best.

    The event, which also served as the audition finals for the 18 contestants, saw dancer Kaffy and her Imagneto Dance Company thrilling everyone with their dance steps.

    However, in a new twist, Bolanle Olukanni (winner of Search for Mo’s Co-host) joined Nollywood actor, Joseph Benjamin, as co-anchor of the evening.

    The organisers announced music producer, Tee-Y mix; Kora award-winning artiste, Ade Bantu, and international act, Bibie Brew, as the panel of judges, while the faculty members include Joke Silva, Ms. Ige, Kaffy and Benneth Ogbeiwi.

    Also, the top 18 contestants were introduced at the event. While Sola Ekundayo, Flourish Agu, David Olowojoba, Melvin Okolie, Taiwo Okunola and Deborah Ohiri had to perform to secure a place in the Academy, the others got automatic entry into the Academy. However, Deborah and Melvin had to leave the competition as the final 16 were ushered into the Academy.

    Winner of the competition will go home with a grand prize of N5million, an SUV and a recording contract; the first runner-up will go home with N3million and a salon car; the second runner-up will receive N2million and a salon car and the third runner- up will get N2million.

    Present at the event were MTN CEO, Mr. Michael Ikpoki; CMO, Mr. Usoro Usoro; Mr. Jibril Aku, Managing Director, Ecobank; media personalities and captains of industry. Also present were MTN Project Fame alumni: Ayoola, Olawale, Immaculate, Tolu, Oyinkansade, Madonna and Monica, among others.

  • Tara Durotoye scores another feat

    Tara Durotoye scores another feat

    TOPNOTCH make-up artist, TaraFela-Durotoye of House of Tara is not resting on her oars to raise the Nigeria make-up industry to meet local and international demands. The hardworking entrepreneur drew many to the launch of a 14 new luxury studio of House of Tara at the Centro Mall in Lekki, Lagos,last weekend.

    The event, which was fun filled, had guests that included Toke Makinwa, Omoni Oboli, Bola Balogun, Munachi Abii, Ufu oma Ejenebor, Anna Banner, Lamide Akintobi, Eunice Ofole, Bolanle Olukanni, Ejiro Amos-Tafiri, Kiki Kamanu, Isoke Ogiemwonyi, Arese Ugwu and many others to an exclusive cocktail event at the store location.

    Already Tara has over 3, 000 representatives who are financially independent learning to start their business as entrepreneur despite the influx of international brands of make-up. Before the end of the year, House of Tara is planning to have another 15 studio.