Bellafricana, Author at Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders April 24, 2022

Meet the Founder of Kisah Lagos [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Kisah Lagos Akinola Saheed Bellafricana Member Exclusive Interview

In 2020, the moment parties and events were banned during the COVID lockdown in my home town Lagos, Nigeria and I trade in party fabrics (popularly called asoebi), the yearn to make income led to the birth of Kisah Lagos. From selling fabrics to making premium quality shoes with asooke (a Nigerian woven fabric), I bet you can’t wait to meet Akinola Saheed, the founder of Kisah Lagos in this exclusive interview.

With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Kisah Lagos for an exclusive interview.

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

My name is akinola saheed. Newly married businessman.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

I make shoes from premium quality asooke. The lockdown birthed kisahlagos. Parties and events were banned and I’m into asoebi, man must chop o (meaning money must be made).

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

Originally it was akisah(First 3 letters of my first and last name) but God forbid I use “akisah” as a Yoruba boy that I am. Akisah means rag in Yoruba so that’s a No No… so the A was moved up to be the logo, leaving me with kisah. So we have kisah lagos as a born and bred lagosian 😉

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

There are a lot of shoe brands in Nigeria as a whole, but asooke shoes? Not very saturated, we are not many hence why I’m excited to build the brand. I have designed different unique shoes for the young and old, even children. The fact that I use asooke is already a selling point. Not everyone believes it can be done.

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

Asides my asooke background, I have people around me that mentor me. I also did a leatherwork training. I didn’t just start stitching asooke together. So seeing what can be done with leather, I’m like why not asooke. Just like that the mixing started (asooke fabric and leather).

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

My very first product was a shoe made by Gandyfootwears (mentor). It was just a trial, I supplied the material and she went to work. She delivered, I rocked it and the acceptance was wow! That was the ginger I needed to get started. Just like that I found myself in Mushin, Nigeria learning shoemaking.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Asooke weavers disappointing, scarcity of thread to weave colours being requested. Of course dispatch trouble, we are still outsourcing that.

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

No regrets so far alhamdulilah.

What is your most popular product?

I call it the krisskross, bestseller any time any day

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?

100% as Asooke originates from Nigeria

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

Well we are still online(Instagram/WhatsApp) at the moment, so no walk in store yet. It’s coming in the near future by the grace of God.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I actually sell gele and asooke for asoebi

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

Most likely a tech guy, I know my way around computers. Studied computer information systems at Babcock university.

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Just start, it’s as simple as that.

To connect with Kisah Lagos, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: kisahlagos

WhatsApp: +234 813 799 3229

Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders April 19, 2022

Meet the Founder of Artini [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Artini Omisakin Temitope Bellafricana member spotlight exclusive interview

Have you ever met a female string artist? Yes you heard that right, one who uses strings and nails to make an artwork! I am excited to introduce you to the Founder of Artini (string art), Omisakin Temitope in this exclusive interview.

With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Artini for an exclusive interview.

Please Introduce yourself and your background

My Name is Omisakin Temitope, I’m from Osun state in Nigeria. A graduate of economics.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

I found out about string art when I was surfing the internet for church stage decor ideas, we needed to come up with something creative and I was a member of the decoration team. And that is how my love for string art started.

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

Coming up with a brand name wasn’t an easy task but at the end of the day we came up with ARTINI which means: A creative piece (craft, literature, filmmaking, etc.) that causes emotion or a new awareness.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

ART and HOME DECOR is our niche and it was pretty easy for us to know our market due to the nature of our products

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

I’m a strong believer of JESUS and I believe my creativity comes from him. So I pray for creativity and inspiration. I also believe he lead me to string art in the first place for the church stage decor. Apart from this I watch tons of YouTube videos and also check out art pages, art blogs and Pinterest.

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

As the JESUS girl that I am, the first string art I made was “GOD” I just felt like it should be the first Art I make even before we did the stage design.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

For challenges I’d say string art is not taught in this part of the world so I was only left with Russian YouTube videos that where often times not translated, calculating geometric patterns and designs where hard at the beginning. Another challenge was sourcing materials, I did a lot of improvisation when I first started out, especially with nails since they weren’t available in Nigeria

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

I have faced a number of challenges but no regrets at all.

What is your most popular product?

I have two actually. “The African woman” and “Red hat lady”

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?

To some extent actually, I’ve realised African inspired work are easily accepted and look unique. Like the “African woman for example “

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

For my business I’d say getting a work station that would also serve as a training centre for students and also double as a mini gallery for walk-in clients And to also be a leading and learning art centre in Nigeria. In life generally would be to teach, impact and empower people.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I’m not sure it would be a surprised but for what it’s worth I’m “Left handed “.

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

I would probably have a business consulting firm.

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Whatever mistakes you make, learn to move on from it, you’re only human. Just work on improving yourself and your business so it doesn’t happen again

To connect with Artini, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram:madebyartini

WhatsApp: +234 814 610 4662

Bellafricana published in Exclusive Interviews, Meet The Founders April 19, 2022

Meet the Founder of Scents Pro [Exclusive Interview]

Meet the founder of Scents Pro Boluwatife Adeife

I am honoured and thrilled to introduce you to the Founder of Scents Pro, Boluwatife Adeife in this exclusive interview.

With no further ado, let’s meet the Founder of Scents Pro Luxury for an exclusive interview.

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Boluwatife Adeife. A Nigerian and the creative director and chandler of Scents Pro, an indigenous fragrance company where we create premium quality, hand crafted home and space fragrances in diffusers, scented candles, et al.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

Scents Pro was birthed from the love for scents generally and how particular I’ve always been about my space and it’s general appearance. I was (still am) a fragrance lover, but when I did my research on home scents I realized at that time, there wasn’t a lot of indigenous brands, accessibility to international brands was a challenge and the quality of these international brands, as regards raw materials for production, was not 100% in most cases.

So Scents Pro Luxury came in, to bridge the gap by providing eco friendly, toxic free and luxurious home scents that’s would bring some level of comfort into homes and spaces.

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

An expert in any field is called a PRO. An expert with Scents, is a Scents Pro.

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Indigenous and Toxic free(eco friendly). These were what seemed to be missing at the time we were going to start. These days, people are more open to buying locally made products and the fact that they are vegan and eco friendly makes it even better as people have become more conscious.

Where do you get inspiration for your products?

I get inspiration from everywhere, from different people and brands.

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

A scented candle. I was over the moon excited even though it was obviously not perfect.

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Running the business in general. It can be overwhelming

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

Not at all.

What is your most popular product?

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian heritage for your work?

Scents Pro is an indigenous brand. Our products are all 100% locally hand made

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

Short term goal is to evolve and improve generally in every area of the business. Long term goal is to be the leading and most preferred home fragrance brand in the Nigeria and West Africa.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I speak French

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

Sales and Marketing

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Build your brand at your own pace and not compare with existing brands.

To connect with Scents Pro, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: scentsproluxury

WhatsApp: +234 905 922 1317

Bellafricana published in Home & Living April 19, 2022

5 Reasons Why You Need Scented Candles

It is no doubt that scent is the first thing people notice when they enter your home. Scented candles may seem invisible yet it is a very unforgettable and ultimate accessory everyone should have. There is nothing as good as inhaling good and healthy air with great comfort and scented candles help you achieve that goal. The beauty of scented candles is how well put together and nicely packaged it is. It doesn’t only brighten up the atmosphere of a place, but also serves as an accent piece to every space.

Just as the saying, “you can’t buy happiness but you can buy scented candles”. This may sound ridiculous but somehow truthful. Fragrances and a well-scented environment have a whole lot to do with our moods and feelings. Psychology further explains that the smell of scented candles stimulates our limbic system, that part of the brain responsible for emotions and memories. When a space lacks a good scent, it could lead to discomfort and inconvenience.

Here are the top 5 examples of scented candles with reasons why you need them in your space;

FLAMES AND PATCHOULI-SCENTED CANDLES CREATE A DESIRABLE AMBIENCE AND ATMOSPHERE

Scented candles create a relaxing and inviting ambiance. Have you ever just sat and stared at a candle that was flickering nearby? You’ve probably noticed that it generates a pleasant, soothing, and cozy ambiance. A few strategically positioned candles can help you instantly create a pleasant and intimate ambiance in your house.

Adding a candle here and there softens the environment and makes it feel instantly warmer and more pleasant. Candles are well-known for their calming and healing effects, and therapists, such as massage. Therapists commonly use them to create a peaceful environment in their treatment rooms. With its gorgeous flicker and mellow glow, the simple act of lighting a candle helps to relax and soothe the mind. Give it a shot.

Flames and patchouli candles, a signature of Abela world scents, contain a rich blend of juicy-floral notes, laced with musky-woody notes of rosewood, cashmere, ambergris, patchouli, and tobacco for seductive complexity. Flame & Patchouli is a signature scent that is richly sexual. Surrender to your inner passion and nature’s alluring power, conveying the abstract essence of searing fury.

2. FOOTPRINT AND LEATHER CANDLES ARE HEALTHY FOR YOUR ENVIRONMENT.

Self-care and mental health are important aspects of a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, burning candles can aid in the creation of the ideal environment for promoting serenity and well-being. Consider burning a candle if you’re ever gripped by fear or worrying thoughts. Aromatherapy candles have already been shown to have stress-relieving properties in several studies. Keep in mind, however, that not all candles are made equal, and some could be hazardous to your health.

As a result, you must know what’s in your candle’s compounds. Footprint and leather candle is an embodiment of the warmth of the African soil, it encapsulates subtle gourmand notes with the warm and luxurious aroma of clean earth in its heart of tarragon, sweet grass, violet leaf, fine leather, amber, and sandalwood. This right combination of ingredients might help with anxiety if one ever is engulfed with fear and anxious thought. it is also a rich and sensual fragrance manufactured by Abela by scents of Africa, a fragrance brand inspired by African stories. This brand not only has a wide variety of well-scented candles, but it also produces exotic fragrances that are therapeutic, sweet, and have sultry experiences, this signature scent should be top of your list as this scintillating scent will whisk you away.

3) MUDHUT AND GINGER LEAF FACILITATE COMFORT

According to science, ginger is loaded with antioxidants and compounds that prevent stress and damage to your body’s DNA. they also help the body fight off chronic diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and disease of the lungs, and it promotes healthy aging too.

As a result of the great benefits of ginger Abela by scents of Africa made these Aromatherapy candles that can help you relax, feel calm, energized, and put your mind in a more productive mode. Mudhut and ginger leaf candles can help you relax and relieve stress.

These candles are energizing and help with Abela by scents of Africa concentration. Lemon candles are also energizing, and they can help with anxiety and depression. it is intricately sweet and leathery combining the delightful and refined aroma of osmanthus blossoms with a sensuous heart of patchouli and the suspenseful note of savory leaves.

(4) PASSION AND YLANG CANDLES ADD A SPARK OF CELEBRATION AND ROMANCE.

As the name implies “passion’’, this candle is capable of igniting a special bond, it is intricately sweet and leathery combining the delightful and refined aroma of osmanthus blossoms with a sensuous heart of patchouli and the suspenseful note of savory leaves.

Passion & Ylang Perfume Candle has an exotic soul, with a seductive core of parma violets and tuberose, as well as a hint of pimenta and ylang ylang essential oils. The heart notes, which have a slightly heady, sweet, exotic, and complex floral smell, claim origin and cultivation in North and South Africa. This Abela by Scents of Africa Signature perfume has a cheerful and elegant fragrance.

(5) RUSTIC WOOD AND CINNAMON CANDLES ADD LIFE TO YOUR DECOR AND SPACE.

Candles add a sophisticated touch to every room in your house. Abela by scents of Africa offers very wide options of scented candles to choose from: you may use delicate colors to bring a gentle touch to any space, or you can go for bright, strong colors to create a large statement. Candles are incredibly adaptable; they come in a variety of forms and look excellent in any setting.

Candles in the bathroom provide a spa-like ambiance, while candles strategically arranged throughout your living area create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere (very hygge). Meanwhile, candles as the centerpiece of your dining room table create a beautiful candlelit dinner environment, while kitchen candles provide a welcoming atmosphere while also killing odors.

Experience the transposing aroma of exotic “wood” tar in conjunction with the riotous energy of Moroccan spice in this brilliant signature perfume. Abélà by Scents of Africa Rustic Wood & Cinnamon inspires and awakens the most resilient heart, combining notes of dry musk, sandalwood, vanilla, amber, and tobacco to expand the mind into a panorama of richness. These signature candles can also be utilized to create a beautiful and whimsical atmosphere on the table.

Bellafricana published in Arts & Crafts, Fashion April 19, 2022

How To Rock African Fashion

Asooke throwStyling African wears could demand lots of detail and attention, this is because for it to fit into the contemporary world one needs to pay close attention to detail and be aesthetic about it.

Lots of fashion designers have come up with flexible wear designs that could be styled for different occasions.

Here is a list of ways and places to style up your African wear,

AFRICAN CORPORATE FASHION

Do you want to infuse your African wear into the corporate world? Do you often attend business fairs, meetings, and conferences and you need the best styling ways to fit into these places and not look too traditional. The idea behind slaying an African outfit successfully is to keep it classy and simple at the same time.

O’Eclat Designs, an ethical Nigerian brand, makes use of premium leather, to craft beautiful handmade bags, with some having beautiful African design prints, these bags can be combined with nice suits/ jackets or beautiful gowns. You will just stun in this fabulous look and have eye-rolling. These bags are made of African fabrics and could be used to fit into the contemporary style of dressing. These beautifully made African bags will suit perfectly with corporate dresses or corporate trousers and suits.

Morin O has also put together collections of African-inspired bags, wallets, belts, and slippers. Morin O’s handcrafted bags will always do well in your corporate world, Men’s bags are not left out, quality men’s bags for the corporate world. No matter the occasion, you can’t go wrong with a well-sewn colorful fabric made with rich leather sourced from Nigeria.

2. AFRICAN SOCIAL FASHION

There is a funny saying ‘’Eni o wo Ankara o je semo’’ meaning; that the guest who does not wear uniform fabric popularly called ‘’aso ebi’’ will not eat at the social gathering. The fabric is worn particularly and uniformly for celebration. On a lighter note, it may serve as a gate pass to several social events. African print is usually worn to social events such as weddings, burials, religious gatherings, and a lot more.

Ethnik Africa is a global brand inspired by ancient asooke craftsmanship of western Nigerian and African culture. This brand is known for making beautiful loafers, travel bags, asooke inspired sneakers, that can comfortably be worn to formal gatherings. It can be worn in jeans, jumpsuits, gowns, skirts, or even shorts, traveling bags, sneakers, etc.

Adorning yourself with African wear to socials could be very versatile and flexible. It is popularly known to be worn mainly in African countries though it is slowly being adopted by the western world. Several celebrities have been seen to embrace this trend, a couple of western celebrities such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Sia, and others have been seen rocking African fashion dresses and bags for several outings. This is a big win for the African fashion industry, though slowly but surely, the aim is for the whole world to finally embrace this trend into their culture and social lives.

3. AFRICAN HANGOUT FASHION

There are times you simply need an easy-going style to wear for hangouts, small parties, dinners, or dates. Ankara shorts, crop tops, skirts, and gowns could be your best guess. Ankara/ Adire pullovers and tops are flexible in their utilization and styling and ought to be a staple in each woman’s closet. Ankara coordinate sets are easy to wear as you can rock them with trousers or gowns and skirts. If free wear for fashion lazy or work-free day. The African hangout is a series of ready-to-wear items that one just picks up from the wardrobe.

Bellafricana published in bellafricana, Bellafricana ACE Awards, Entrepreneurship, Press Release January 28, 2022

Bellafricana members gets 60 million naira export grant

Mr Olusegun Awolowo at the third edition of ACE Awards Africa by Bellafricana with Bukky Asehinde founder Bellafricana

Small and Medium sized Entrepreneurs across the country are putting in a lot of efforts to survive, scale the hurdles and compete favourably in different sectors.

To carve a niche for themselves they need support, encouragement and a business friendly environment.

The immediate past Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Mr Olusegun Awolowo has been a pillar of support to many. He recently supported Bellafricana members with a 60 Million Naira Grant.

This opportunity is meant to support their businesses through the Export Development Fund (EDF) via the Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP] which issued a 60 million Naira grant to the 15 awardees of the 3rd ACE Awards as well as a few other Bellafricana members that have shown export potential.

The opportunity unveiled during the 3rd edition of the African Creative Exhibition and Awards, held on the 29th of October 2021, at the BWC Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos will help to transform this businesses to the next phase with ease.

There Mr. Awolowo made clear the commitment of the NEPC to support and grow non-oil exports in the country.

Crude oil forms the major commodity that is being exported in Nigeria currently. In 2020, Crude petroleum topped Nigeria’s commodity export for the year according to COMMODITY.COM. Nigeria presently ranks as the tenth most petroleum-rich nation and by far the most affluent in Africa which makes the reason for being such an exporter of crude oil not far-fetched. This has in some ways made other industries take the back seat because, in recent years, there has been more focus on the country’s exportation of crude oil.

The Export Expansion facility programme, founded as a part of Mr. Awolowo’s legacy to grow Nigeria’s export industry has therefore provided a catalyst that supports the country’s active export businesses and export-ready businesses.

Speaking on this development, the CEO of Bellafricana, Bukky Asehinde could not contain her excitement as she spoke about how Mr. Awolowo through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council has been supportive of the growth and expansion of not just Bellafricana but her members.

“Mr Awolowo has time and time again proven to be a huge supporter not just to me or the over 5000 creatives he has supported through Bellafricana but to many creative entrepreneurs all over Nigeria.

Since the over 5 years that Bellafricana was founded, Mr. Awolowo has been a strong pillar of support to this community, endorsing us fully and boosting our brand credibility”.

She added: “This 60 Million Naira grant by the Export Expansion facility programme will go a long way in pushing many businesses forward. I celebrate Mr. Awolowo for showing us who a true leader is and I know that his legacy will always be known for generations to come”.

Asehinde went on to express her gratitude to Mr. Awolowo for standing by Bellafricana over the years and thanking him for building a legacy through his leadership as the former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council. “We are proud of his legacy and his support by helping and enabling MSMEs to get to the export level.”

Mr. Awolowo has always supported Bellafricana and her vision to give more visibility to African-owned creative businesses.

He has shown this through his continuous support at every edition of the ACE Awards held since 2017 to laud and encourage the work of highly skilled individuals who are making significant contributions to their respective industries and putting Africa on the world map with their creations.

He has through the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] sponsored and supported over 5000 creatives and is now wrapping up with this grant so creative entrepreneurs can scale up their businesses while growing the country’s export industry.

He has also used his encouraging words to push not just entrepreneurs but everyone around him beyond their limits so they can achieve their goals and even surpass them.

It is no wonder Bukky Asehinde describes him as “The father of non-oil exporters.”

One of the awardees and a beneficiary of the grant also appreciated Mr. Awolowo for believing in Nigerian creative entrepreneurs and supporting them in scaling their businesses beyond the shores of the country.

“If we had more people like Mr. Awolowo in this country who have demonstrated true leadership, I have no doubts that we will see more Nigerian entrepreneurs succeeding and getting the visibility they deserve in the global space.”

The Export Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP], a flagship project of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] founded under the leadership of the now former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council.

The Export Expansion Facility Programme seeks to democratize the discovery of exporters and their access to relevant government incentives to grow. The initiative supports businesses in Nigeria, with at least one customer abroad, or working on acquiring customers abroad.
It also supports businesses in Nigeria that provide services that an export business might need and it offers these businesses a series of incentives to expand their reach and become an exporter.

Bellafricana is a tech-enabled community that provides a platform for Nigerian and African Creative entrepreneurs in the Fashion, Arts & Crafts, Home & Living, Beauty, and Food produce & Snacks Industry to gain visibility, increase sales, and have the right business support and structure that gives them the capacity to grow their business.

Bellafricana’s vision is to become the biggest e-commerce company that promotes African products to the world and is on the verge of accomplishing this as it recently launched a Marketplace [www.bellafricanashop.com].

Bellafricana published in Bellafricana ACE Awards November 4, 2021

ACE Awards 2021 Official Post Event Press Release

Bellafricana held its 3^rd edition of The African Creative Exhibition and Awards, [ACE Awards], on Friday, the 29^th of October, 2021 to laud the works of African creatives and celebrate their contributions to their respective industries/sectors.

The event attracted a host of notable personalities, such as Mr Olusegun Awolowo [Executive Director of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) & President ECOWAS TPO Network], Mr Tobi Asehinde [CEO/Founder Digital Marketing Skills Institute], Mrs Yetunde Aina [CEO of Jadeas Trust], Mr Lanre Basamta [Group Head, Mobile Financial Services, Interswitch Group], Mr Lanre Adisa [CEO Noah’s Ark Communications].

We also had in attendance, Prince & Mrs Adefulu, Ms Lerato Lekena-Okoro [Real Estate Advisor], Mr Oluwaseyi Adegoke-Adeyemo (Vice-Chair, Events committee) of Nigerian-Britain Association [NBA], Mrs Eyiyemi Olivia [Compere, OAP & Dress maker], and Mrs Nnena Fakoya-Smith [Tourism Promoter & Visibility Coach].

Representatives of Access Bank and W-Community – Mrs Abiodun Olubitan [Group Head, Women Banking team at Access Bank Plc], Noah’s Ark, Inside Watch Africa, Cybertron Ads, Pride magazine, Jordan FM, Exquisite magazine, Arise Television were present to cover the event and of course, the reason for the event, the 45 nominees for the 15 different categories, their guests and a host of others.

The 3-phased event: The Creatives Connect, Exhibitions [and shopping for attendees] and The ACE Awards Dinner which garnered a lot of attention pulled a crowd of 1,000 Attendees, 20 Exhibitors, 15 Awardees and over 2million Social Media Reach just for the event.

Everyone was held spellbound as the hosts for each event expertly took us on a journey of fun, intrigue and surprises.

For the creatives connect & Exhibitions, we had experts address attendees, business support basket raffle, exhibitors from different industries display their beautiful and unique items, while shoppers eagerly shopped to their satisfaction. And of course, connecting, conversing, networking, and item 7. It was fun, enlightening and everyone left with smiles on their faces.

Exhibitions is ongoing - ACE Awards 2021 — Shoppers buying at the Exhibition

The ACE awards dinner, which was themed: A touch of Africa, was a spectacular one. With everyone glammed up as they sauntered in, making their way to their seats, ready to be thrilled and entertained. The entertainment was nothing short of mesmerizing. There were musical performances by Blue Note – The Saxophonist, spoken poetry by Ms Shola Amaraibi and a host of others. Roars of applause filled the air as the winners were called and endless speeches and pictures ensued – as it should.

Spoken words @ ACE Awards 2021 — Spoken Words by Shola Amaraibi

Music @ ACE AWARDS 2021 — musical performances by Blue Note – The Saxophonist

ACE Awards 2021 Winners

See the full list below:

Best Indigenous Textile Designer – Afrikstabel
Best Beauty Brand – Jaga Beauty
Best Fashion Brand (Clothing, Shoes) – Aspen
Best Startup of the Year – Just Journal
Best Accessories Brand (Jewelry, Bags) – AABOUX
Best Eco-friendly Product Innovation – Trash2Wealth
Best Innovative Product of the Year – Clay world by Marienne
Best Pioneer Craftsman/woman of the Year (Over 10 years) – Raule Royal
Best Food Produce Innovation – Klay Foods
Best Creative Child Entrepreneur – Zees Shea Hub
Best Creative Social Enterprise of the Year – Solar Sister
Best Creative Children’s Brand – 9ijakids
Best Arts & Crafts Person – Hooked by Lade
Best Home & Lifestyle Brand – Yasmin Crafts
Best emerging African Brand – Kua Designs

See their pitch videos at ACE Winners 2021 – ACE Awards Africa

Winners - ACE Awards 2021 Official Post Event Press Release — Winners of the ACE Awards 2021 alongside Mr & Mrs Asehinde

Mrs Bukky Asehinde, Founder of Bellafricana and the ACE Awards initiative, gave a compelling and heartfelt speech. Speaking on the journey thus far and her hopes and dreams for the future.

Bukky Asehinde - ACE AWARDS 2021 — Mrs Bukky Asehinde, Founder of Bellafricana and the ACE Awards initiative

What is arguably the best part of the evening, was the surprise announcement from the Executive Director of NEPC & President ECOWAS TPO Network, Mr Olusegun Awolowo, who awarded the winners the Export Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP] Grant. An unexpected but wonderful gift, that got the room erupting in applause, shouts of joy and a few tears shed. He did not stop there. He then proceeded to call on stage the Founder of Bellafricana – Mrs Bukky Asehinde, in what seemed to be commending all her efforts and this initiative, he then, right there, inducted her as the Zero Oil Ambassador for Nigeria. It was nothing short of a night filled with wonder.

Inducting Mrs. Bukky an Ambassador at the ACE Awards 2021 — Mr. Olusegun Awolowo & Mrs. Bukky Asehinde

With this riveting third edition, Bellafricana’s African Creative Exhibition and Awards continue to be the most prestigious gathering of Enterprising Creative Afrocentric Brands in Nigeria (Africa). This leaves us looking forward to the next edition of the ACE Awards.

Head on to @ace_awards to see more pictures from the event. Until next time, be good and be safe!

Bellafricana published in Events September 29, 2021

TecXposition launches the second edition

TecXposition launches the second edition and is thrilled to announce the launch of TecXposition 2021, Africa’s premier tech event. In its usual style, they offer the chance to experience technology through a worldwide lens, with local outcomes. Demystifying tech to enhance profitability and enhance everyday living.

Ify Nwoyeocha, Global Executive Leader stated that this is just the beginning for Africa.

[Links are embedded in the pictures]
This year, the event will again feature the following:

A conference,
An exhibition,
Better of Africa startup competition,
Hackathon solving for 6 challenges, and far more.

There are several new offerings that will prove to be exciting additions to the combination. This would be thoroughly enjoyed by guests.

This second launch would debut an Expert Series which can deliver free training from industry experts. One of the event’s most enjoyable offerings yet, in partnership with Be-Games, is Africa’s Game Jam competition. This is where participants must build and submit a mobile game over the course of three weeks. Participants must share a playable version of the game with Be-Games in a bid to win PAID internships.

Event Information

Themed: Improving profitability: Changing everyday lives. The virtual event will bring together over 100 speakers, 100 investors, and 5,000 guests

Date: November 11th – 12th 2021

Time: 07:00 – 19:00 GMT; 08:00 – 20:00 WAT; 10:00 – 22:00 EAT; 09:00 – 21:00 SAT

Why attend?

Learn and immerse yourself in all things tech – thought leadership at its best
Participate in a ‘best of Africa’ startups’ pitch competition, a pan-African hackathon solving for six challenges
Showcase your products and services to a truly diverse audience
Meet investors and potential partners to take your business (or idea) to the next level
Network, network, network.

TecXposition is supported by various partners including:

Africa Communications Week,
Africa Women in Tech,
Alchemist Accelerator,
Be-Games,
Be-Hookd,
Business Insider Africa,
IE University,
IN-CO, Platform Africa,
Wimbart

The TecXposition virtual platform promises to deliver a rich online experience. This can be used by anyone with a device and access to the internet.

Visit their website for more information: https://tecxposition.com/

Article culled from: https://tecxposition.com/

https://africa.businessinsider.com/local/leaders/tecxposition-second-edition-launches/sewkf52

Bellafricana published in News August 23, 2021

3rd Edition of The African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards)

Bellafricana is set to hold the 3rd Edition of the annual African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards) which will take place on Friday, the 29th of October, 2021 at the BWC HOTELS, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria.

Bellafricana is a tech-enabled community that provides a platform for creative entrepreneurs in the fashion, arts & craft, health & beauty, home & living, food produce & snacks industry, to gain visibility, increase sales, have the right business support and structure that gives them the capacity to grow their business.

One of the many ways Bellafricana provides visibility is by giving recognition to these creative entrepreneurs, hence why it’s so exciting to announce the 3rd Edition.

The Annual African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards) aims to laud the creative works of Nigerians (Africans) and is certainly one of the strongest tools in awakening creative, innovative and entrepreneurship drive in young people in Nigeria and indeed Africa.

The past 2 editions have garnered more than 6000 participants from different states in Nigeria and other parts of Africa; Captains of Industry, Upwardly Mobile Youth, Marketers, Trade Delegations & Missions, Procurement Officers, Brand and Business Managers, Art Lovers, Investors, Governmental Representatives as well as policymakers meet at this one-day event that is aimed at celebrating creativity and innovation.

The aim of the ACE Awards remains the same:

To acknowledge and celebrate creative and innovative works made by Nigerians (Africans).
Honouring the creative and tenacious spirit of the African producer.
Encouraging and inspiring new talents within the various Pan African industries through its annual program.

3rd Edition of the annual African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards) would bring together the best creative minds in the fields of fashion, Arts & Craft, Health & Beauty, Home & Living, and Food Produce & Snacks Industry including 15 Creative Entrepreneurs that would benefit highly from this event. Preserving the African culture and promoting these Creatives, this year’s theme is “Creativity and Innovation in Nation Building”.

Bukky Asehinde, Managing Director at Bellafricana says “Everyone likes a pat on the back when they have done something good. Our mission for the ACE Awards is to give these Creative Businesses a platform to receive the recognition they have long deserved. In showing our support and following what we do at Bellafricana, we would be granting some creative entrepreneurs business support worth $2,500.

The event has been endorsed by the Lagos State Government, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and Nigeria-Britain Association.

ACE Awards 2021 has also received backing from the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Digital Marketing Skill Institute (DMSI), Access Bank & W Community, Business Day, Inside Watch Africa, Exquisite Magazine, Jordan FM, Cybertron, Pulse Ng, Pride magazine Nigeria and many more.

Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, this year’s event is going to be a bit different. While it would still be a 3 part event, there will be online Flash sales, a physical Exhibition for a limited number of brands, which would run simultaneously with the Creatives’ Connect Networking Event and the ACE Awards Dinner which will be held at the peak of the event.

Event Details [ACE Awards Dinner]:

Theme: “Creativity and Innovation in Nation Building”

Dinner Theme: “A touch of Africa”

Date: Friday, October 29, 2021

Venue: BWC HOTELS, 1228B Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria (Opposite Eko Atlantic).

Time for Awards Dinner: 6:00pm – 9:00pm

For partnership and sponsorship details, please contact the organizers;

Call: (+234) 808 636 3970

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Creatives Connect.

The Creative Connect is an event created purposefully for creative entrepreneurs to meet, connect, bond and network amongst themselves. It provides access to a networking session with SME owners, creative entrepreneurs, Industry leaders and creatives from all walks of life discussing how they settled in to work during the pandemic and moving forward; essential business advice, collaborations and so much more. Bellafricana is always finding ways to help both upcoming and established creatives to harness the resources available to build their businesses stronger. And this event is just one of them.

In that same vein, Bellafricana would be giving business support worth $2,500 to several lucky creative entrepreneurs.

Event Details:

The Creatives Connect Theme: “Connect, Converse and Collaborate”

Date: Friday, October 29, 2021

Venue: BWC HOTELS, 1228B Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria (Opposite Eko Atlantic).

Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Register now, as limited slots are available.

Exhibition & Flash sales

Why attend? This is a great way to connect, network and shop!

It is the tradition to host an exhibition where attendees get the opportunity to buy quality Nigerian creative products on a large scale. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, only a limited number of brands would be hosted at this one of a kind offline and online shopping experience.

Bellafricana will be hosting you physically at the venue and virtually at flash sales which will showcase quality fast-selling creative products and you can buy them at the click of a button.

The watchword at Bellafricana is Quality, to this effect; Be rest assured of the availability of top-quality creative African-owned businesses at the flash sales.

The 4 focus categories for the exhibition are:

Arts & Crafts
Fashion
Health & Beauty
Home & Living

Here are some of the benefits of Flash sales:

Access to New Market
Sales and New Contacts
Opportunity to Participate at future events/exhibitions
Gain Valuable Knowledge

This is one event you don’t want to miss.

Event Details [Exhibition]:

Venue: Offline at the Event Venue – BWC HOTELS, 1228B Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria (Opposite Eko Atlantic). And Online on Bellafricana Marketplace Website – www.bellafricanashop.com

Date: Friday, the 29th October 2021

Time: 10:00am – 4:00pm

Signed Management

Bellafricana published in bellafricana August 4, 2021

Bukky Asehinde, helping Entrepreneurs through her platform: Bellafricana

Bukky Asehinde, helping Entrepreneurs through her platform: Bellafricana.

Whether they choose to admit it or not, the goal of every business or product owner is to be noticed and patronised by people outside the shores of their country.

One problem business owners have faced for years is making their products noticed by other consumers apart from those within their vicinity.

Getting products noticed by global consumers is always difficult for Africa’s creative women entrepreneurs, but this challenge represented an opportunity for Bukky Asehinde, Founder of Bellafricana. Her platform is giving visibility to Nigeria’s creative business owners and their quality products.

Bellafricana, is a platform that empowers, supports and connects quality, talented and creative indigenous businesses to their local and global consumers.

Starting with Nigeria, their goal is to take it one African Country at a time.

Bukky created a platform to enable creative MSMEs to thrive, whilst doing all it takes to bring the quality products to the forefront of the market. She believes very much that a support group/community for these businesses will enhance the non-oil export in the African economy.

Bukky was inspired to start this up when she noticed a rise in the number of creative indigenous (made in Nigeria, Africa) brands that have great quality, yet are struggling to grow their business with little or no financing from both the government and bigger institutions.

She wondered for a long time, “Why should we wait on financial backing from the government and big institutions to help this industry, when we can create a platform to connect these Indigenous businesses who are maximising raw materials in Nigeria (Africa), providing employment for local talents within the country and creating wealth for the Nation?”. And so she conducted a research, which made her realize that one of the major challenges these businesses were facing majorly has to do with marketing and understanding the trade, which is the heart of any business.

This birthed Bellafricana, a community that showcases the products of local entrepreneurs to a wider audience, both locally and globally.

Bukky finds satisfaction as an entrepreneur because she is able to contribute to the growth of the economy, making an impact that will outlive her, and touching lives.

Bukky Asehinde, helping Entrepreneurs through her platform: Bellafricana.

Her counsel to women who are trying to start a business is simple:

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH WISE & POSITIVE PEOPLE:

This is so vital especially when you know your personality type. I am an extrovert and a positive person, so having negative people around me was a no no. This I know has certainly helped my journey. Another key one is surrounding yourself with wise people, as the bible says also “He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed”.

GET MENTORS:

It’s important to have mentors who key into the vision of what you do and are thought leaders in their various sectors not necessarily celebrities. How? (you might ask) by keeping a relationship with them and striking a mutually beneficial balance of what they do, they will give you more than their time when you show you care.”

Bellafricana is that “support system” every creative business owner needs to be globally accessible.

Follow Bukky Asehinde on Instagram: Bukky Aka Creatives MotherHen (@bukkyasehinde) • Instagram photos and videos

Article culled from: Bukky Asehinde Is Helping Creative Businesses Thrive With Her Bellafricana Platform – Women of Rubies

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Please Introduce yourself and your background.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

What is your most popular product?

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

What is your most popular product?

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

Please Introduce yourself and your background.

Tell us about your work. How did your company start?

How did you come about the name and what does it mean?

What is your niche and how did you know it was a market to get into?

Can you remember one of the first products you made?

What are some of the challenges you face in your business?

Do you have any regrets about venturing into this business?

What is your most popular product?

What are some of your short term and long term goals, both in your business and life in general?

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

What profession would you be in if you weren’t in this industry?

If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?

ACE Awards 2021 Winners

See the full list below:

[Links are embedded in the pictures] This year, the event will again feature the following:

Event Information

Why attend?

The aim of the ACE Awards remains the same:

Event Details [ACE Awards Dinner]:

Creatives Connect.

Event Details:

Exhibition & Flash sales

The 4 focus categories for the exhibition are:

Here are some of the benefits of Flash sales:

Event Details [Exhibition]:

Bukky Asehinde, helping Entrepreneurs through her platform: Bellafricana.

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH WISE & POSITIVE PEOPLE:

GET MENTORS:

Bellafricana is that “support system” every creative business owner needs to be globally accessible.

Join the Bellafricana Community of audacious, driven and courageous creative entrepreneurs

Explore

quick links

Contact

Massive Progress in your Business

[Links are embedded in the pictures]
This year, the event will again feature the following: