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Tag: Stephanie Linus

  • My Father’s Shadow didn’t submit film to NOSC for Oscars, reveals Stephanie Linus

    My Father’s Shadow didn’t submit film to NOSC for Oscars, reveals Stephanie Linus

    Filmmaker and actress Stephanie Linus stirred a touchy conversation recently when she submitted that some filmmakers don’t identify with the Nigerian film industry yet latch onto the Nigerian name to promote their films.

    Linus, who was a panellist at one of the industry sessions held at the fifth edition of Peace Anyiam-Osigwe Nigeria Digital Content Regulation Conference, made this claim that stirred a broader conversation at the conference.

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    While making her submission on the topic, ‘From Volume to Value: The Future of Nigerian Motion Picture Industry in the Digital Age,’ Linus expressed that Akinola Jr. and Wale Davies’ film, ‘My Father’s Shadow,’ doesn’t entirely identify with the Nigerian film industry but only latches onto the country’s name to propagate the film.

    She noted that the film has been classified as the first Nigerian film to appear at the Cannes despite not being a Nigerian production, but only a Nigerian story.

    She buttressed her submission, revealing that while the Nigerian Oscar Selection Committee, NOSC, called for entry submissions, the brothers shunned the call but entered their film through another country for the Oscars.

  • Stephanie Linus’ Dry reignites conversation on gender violence amid justice for ochanya movement

    Stephanie Linus’ Dry reignites conversation on gender violence amid justice for ochanya movement

    Stephanie Linus’ film, ‘Dry,’ has resurfaced as a compelling cultural reflection of the ongoing crisis as Nigeria confronts the realities of child abuse and gender-based violence through the renewed #JusticeForOchanya movement.

    ‘Dry’ is finding fresh resonance among audiences demanding justice, accountability, and reform.

    A searing social drama, ‘Dry’ tells the parallel stories of Dr. Zara, a successful African doctor grappling with a painful past, and Halima, a 13-year-old forced into marriage with a 60-year-old man in a rural community.

    The film captures the devastating cycle of child marriage, rape, and obstetric fistula (VVF), realities that continue to affect young girls across Nigeria.

    In light of the renewed outcry for justice following Ochanya Ogbanje’s story, a 13-year-old who died in 2018 after suffering years of sexual abuse, ‘Dry’ serves as both an artistic and social statement.

    The film’s narrative parallels the collective call to end child marriage, protect survivors, and strengthen accountability for perpetrators of abuse.

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    “Dry was created to spark conversation and empathy, but most importantly, to drive change,” said Stephanie Linus, the film’s director and executive producer. “The #JusticeForOchanya movement reminds us that these stories are not fiction for many Nigerian girls. We must continue to use every platform, including film, to demand justice and ensure such tragedies never happen again.”

    Since its release, ‘Dry’ has received critical acclaim, winning AMVCA Award for Best Overall Movie in Africa, the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Nigerian Film and Best Young Actor, Won Programmer’s Award Narrative Feature at the Pan African Film Festival (PAFF), Best Protagonist at the Bentonville Film Festival among other honours.

    The film’s renewed attention in 2025 emphasises the power of storytelling as a tool for advocacy and societal change.

  • When Stephanie Linus joins forces with George Washington University

    When Stephanie Linus joins forces with George Washington University

    Nigerian star actress Stephanie Linus, through the Extended Hands Foundation has joined forces with the George Washington University’s Institute for Corporate Responsibility to launch the Maternal Health and Nutrition Initiative Africa (MaHNIA).

    The initiative, according to Linus, is designed to address pressing maternal health and nutrition challenges in marginalized African communities, focusing on empowering women and improving health outcomes.

    The partnership was officially launched after two screenings of Linus’s award-winning film, ‘Dry.’

    The film set the stage for an engaging panel discussion on maternal health, women’s rights, and the critical role of nutrition in enhancing healthcare systems in Africa. GW’s Global Food Institute and Global Women’s Institute co-hosted the event which included a powerful panel discussion. 

    Emphasizing the need for holistic care, Linus said, “Safe motherhood and proper nutrition are not privileges; they are fundamental rights. Through MaHNIA, we aim to ensure that women in underserved communities not only survive childbirth but thrive afterward. This initiative combines healthcare and nutrition to create lasting solutions.”

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    Tara Scully, Director of Curriculum Development at GW’s Global Food Institute, highlighted the crucial role of nutrition in maternal care, saying, “When we talk about healthcare, we must also talk about nutrition. A mother’s nutritional status affects both her health and that of her child. By integrating nutrition education into healthcare, we can improve outcomes for generations to come.”

    The event provided a platform for candid discussions about the importance of integrating nutrition into maternal health solutions. Universities possess a vast reservoir of knowledge that is often inaccessible.

    Stephanie Linus closed the discussion by highlighting her passion for using storytelling to drive social change. “My film Dry tells the story of just one girl, but her story represents millions of women who suffer in silence. Through this initiative, we are giving a voice to those women and providing real solutions,” she said.

  • Stephanie Linus gets major recognition from Thomas Jefferson University

    Stephanie Linus gets major recognition from Thomas Jefferson University

    In recognition of her outstanding contributions to social activism and impact through her work, Stephanie Linus has been honoured Thomas Jefferson University.

    The ‘Dry’ star was decorated with the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine.

    Linus’ achievement not only highlights her dedication to societal well-being but puts her on the map of history as the first Black recipient of the award.

    Upon receiving the award, Linus expressed gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to using her platform for social good. “This recognition goes beyond me; it is for all the women and girls out there who are fighting for a healthier, safer world. It amplifies our message and our work. It strengthens my resolve to continue advocating for gender equality, social justice, and improved maternal and reproductive health in Africa,” said Linus.

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    Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is an accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the medical field, promoting scientific discovery and advancements.

    Named after Lennox K. Black, a Canadian manufacturing executive known for his philanthropic efforts and service on various boards including that of Thomas Jefferson University, the prize celebrates excellence in medical innovation and contribution to health and medicine globally.

    Stephanie Linus, renowned for her activism and impactful work in areas concerning women’s health and rights, including her efforts to combat issues like fistula and gender-based violence, has been instrumental in bringing about social change through her films and campaigns.

  • Stephanie Linus gets new recognition for DRY

    Nollywood producer and directed Stephanie Linus has bagged a new recognition for her film, Dry, having been selected to screen for the second time at the Pan African Film & Arts Festival (PAFF) in Los Angeles, USA this February.

    As a prelude to the festival, the notable female director was recognized at the first ever Blacks In Cinema presentation at the Los Angeles City Council Chambers.

    Los Angeles City Council President Herb J. Wesson kicked off the Black History Month by honoring the actors and filmmakers who paved the way for people all walks of life to be represented in film. With the help of some legendary African-American actors and filmmakers, the day was officially proclaimed #BlacksInCinema in Los Angeles.

    Recall that Dry won Best Narrative Feature at the PAFF in 2016. It screens again on February 9th, 13th, and 18th with an interactive session after the opening night. The movie has made immense positive impact across the world in changing the narrative concerning child marriage and other forms of social injustice. It was recalled to the festival this year due to its world-class production quality and continuous importance in global human rights advocacy.

  • Stephanie Linus signs skin products contract

    Nollywood actress/humanitarian Stephanie Linus , has signed a new contract with a skincare manufacturing company as their brand ambassador.

    On why she accepted the offer, the actress said: “I’ll be honest with you, I’ve battled with it all: dark spots, acne, discoloration, scarring. When I discovered Rodan + Fields skincare, their phenomenal regimens and luxurious products addressed each of these issues within weeks. Now I feel alive in my skin again and you can too.

    “My journey to great skin has been long, trying products too numerous to count, but none have worked until now. I’m pleased to announce that I have partnered with the dermatologists who created Proactiv on their billion dollar venture in anti-aging skincare called Rodan + Fields. Not only am I using all of these fabulous products, but R+F is now part of my expanding global business. Come along with me in the adventure towards your best skin.”

    She also shared on her Instagram that products is available for those who are willing to partner.

    “Now I run an international skincare business and I’m looking for an amazing team of consultants who will partner with me…are you one of them? Build your own skincare business with these fabulous products and join me in this journey towards becoming a #boss. We are only in 3 countries at the moment, but we are expanding rapidly.”

  • Stephanie Linus partners SNEPCO/NNPC to treat 25 VVF patients in Sokoto

    Nollywood actress and producer, Stephanie Linus, has been showing that her movie, ‘Dry’ which espouses the issues of child bride and fistula is more than just a movie, but a tool for touching the lives of women actually living with Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF).

    This was as 25 women formerly living with VVF in Sokoto State have received free repair surgeries, courtesy of a collaboration of SNEPCo/NNPC and Extended Hands, the foundation started by Stephanie.

    VVF is a serious challenge  that can be experienced by women after childbirth whereby a hole develops between the vagina and the bladder, resulting in uncontrollable leaking of urine through the vagina.

    The treatment at the Maryam Abacha Woman and Children (VVF Hospital) Sultan Bello Road, Sokoto was carried out by a team of medical staff led by Dr Sa’ad Idris, a VVF surgeon and former Commissioner for Health in Zamfara State with over 20 years experience in the field. He was assisted by Dr Halima Bello a VVF surgeon, Chief Medical Director Dr Lawal Bello, Chief Matron Hamsai Abdullahi Wisso, and other doctors and nurses at the VVF center.

    Stephanie started the foundation to give VVF patients a chance of  living normal lives through free repair surgeries.

  • Emotional moment on Stephanie Linus’ Make Me Fabulous show

    Actress Stephanie Linus’ reality show, ‘Make Me Fabulous’, may be doing the magic of igniting the spark in marriages, considering some emotional moments on the show currently airing on DSTV Channel 151.

    In its second season, the show which features 13 married couples has a vow renewal ceremony where they both reaffirm their love for one another and pledge to work together to strengthen their marriage.

    On Episode 2 which aired on Sunday 20th August, a unique couple – Joyful and Temitope – brought tears to the eyes of many viewers during their emotional vow renewal ceremony. Another interesting time on the show was when the host, Stephanie Linus, prayed for the couple and gave them some useful advice.

    ‘Make Me Fabulous’ is an unscripted show that is committed to ensuring that marriages work and that the family unit is shrouded in love. The show continues every Sunday by 6pm on DSTV Africa Magic Showcase Channel 151.

  • Stephanie Linus announces Make Me Fabulous Season 2

    After much anticipation, Season 2 of Make Me Fabuous, a Reality TV Show created to rekindle the spark in marriages, will premeire on Sunday, August 12 at 6 PM on DSTV’s Africa Magic Showcase, Channel 151.

    Organiser of the show, Nollywood actress and producer, Stephanie Linus, made the announcement.

    In Season 1, 13 couples were treated to a lavish and luxurious experience that ignited new meaning into their relationships. Season 2 is set to be even more exciting and would detail the journeys of 13 married couples.

    “When I saw how much of an impact Season 1 was, I knew we had to do this again,” said Stephanie, disclosing the show has some new twists.

    “But we did it with a twist. Viewers would love the new direction the show has taken, but more importantly, we hope it touches their homes and marriages in a special way.”

    From newlyweds to couples who have been married for decades, Make Me Fabulous takes them on a journey of transformation, giving them a chance to connect without distractions. In each episode, these couples bare their deepest challenges, share their high and low points, and enjoy a fabulous experience. An expert style and beauty team, together with a luxury treat and fantastic prizes made their experience even more memorable.

    The featured couples were selected from Stephanie Linus’s personal blog, Stephaniedaily.com where all updates, behind the scenes and exclusive bonuses can be found.

  • Nigerian Actress seeks global end to trafficking in persons

    Stephanie Linus, Nigeria award-winning actress, has reiterated the need to address the high rate of trafficking in persons globally.

    She spoke at the second edition of the “Dialoghi a Spoleto” and Carla Fendi Foundation event in Italy.

    Linus said there was the need to also educate and empower people who are at risk of being trafficked, in Abuja.

    “In ending slavery, we must be conscious about empowering and educating people, because otherwise, we’re going to have to deal with it for years to come,” the film producer and director said.

    The five-day event which was marked by six meetings of great female figures of the international scene ended on Sunday.

    From Africa, to Afghanistan to Italy, the delegates discussed several world issues such as: slave trade, the struggle for equal rights, culture as a vehicle for emancipation, women’s health, agriculture and globalization in relation to the female world, social commitment, cinema, music, art.

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    The event is part of the official events of the Festival dei Due Mondi di Spoleto and hosted by the renowned Italian writer Paola Severini.

    It was attended by women from all over the world including including: Sister Gabriella Bottani, world coordinator of the fight against trafficking in persons; Luigi Manconi UNAR coordinator – National Office.

    Others include Marcelle Padovani, expert in organized crime and correspondent of Le Nouvel Observateur; Marina Pendes, Minister of Defense of Bosnia-Herzegovina;

    Also in attendance are Nessrin Abdalla, Kurdish commander of the People’s Popular Protection Unit; Alka Sadat Afghana film producer; Irene Bignardi film critic; Anna Querci president Anna Querci Design Foundation among others.

    Linus in January, made her first visit to Italy to advocate against human trafficking.

    In partnership with international medical humanitarian organization – Doctors Without Borders (MSF), the actress visited the rescue ship Aquarius where she met with some victims of human trafficking, among other activities.

    She continues to advocate against the scourge of forced labor and human trafficking.

    “Ultimately, I hope this leads us in the path to justice on behalf of the millions of human trafficking victims who have been trapped in some form of slavery, bonded labor, or forced prostitution; and a sharp decline of these staggering figures,” she said.

    NAN