Bellafricana’s Year 2024 Round Up

Visitor Lara Kayode by Jade at TALES by Bellafricana 2024

As year 2024 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on some of the incredible highlights that defined 2024 for Bellafricana. Lets take a look at Bellafricana’s year 2024 round up, from impactful events to exciting collaborations and new initiatives, this year has been one for the books! Here are the top 10 moments of 2024 in Bellafricana.

1. TALES 2024 Pop-Up Event: Top 10 moments of 2024

TALES 2024 was a major highlight for us this year. It was a vibrant celebration of African creativity, bringing together some of the best talents on the continent. The event wasn’t just about showcasing; it was about connecting, building relationships, and amplifying African brands on a global stage.

Visitor Lara Kayode by Jade at TALES by Bellafricana 2024

Vendor Claire founder CLADINI at TALES by Bellafricana 2024

Vendors Accessory-Ville and Ako Africa CLADINI at TALES by Bellafricana 2024

2. Major Collaboration with Emolyn Cosmetics for TALES 2024

TALES by Bellafricana 2024

One of the most exciting things about TALES 2024 was our collaboration with Emolyn Cosmetics. Partnering with such a fantastic brand added so much value to the event and highlighted the power of working together to promote African creatives.

3. Modara Naturals at the European Beauty Awards

A huge success story from our community this year was Modara Naturals being nominated for the prestigious European Beauty Awards. Our founder, Bukky Asehinde, was there to cheer them on, and it was truly heartwarming to see African creativity recognized on such a global platform.

Watch the highlights of the event here

4. Corporate Partnership with SalesforceBukky Asehinde, founder Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce

We’re proud to have partnered with Salesforce 2 times this year! Our first collaboration with Salesforce this year was in October to celebrate Black History Month  and our  second partnership was in December for a Christmas marketplace. This collaboration opened new doors for African creatives, proving once again the power of partnerships in pushing boundaries and creating global opportunities.

Click here to read more about the Partnership 

5. How to Get Endorsed as a Global Talent for Arts and Culture Workshop

Global talent workshop

This workshop was a game-changer for many in our community. We guided creatives on the Global Talent Route, providing practical steps to gain recognition for their craft on an international level. It was inspiring to see attendees leave with the confidence to take their skills to the next stage.

Watch the highlights of the workshop here

6. The Power of Branding, Storytelling, and Community Workshop with Scott Ohene-Nyako

Top 10 moments of 2024 in Bellafricana

Every brand has a story, and this workshop was all about teaching creatives how to tell theirs. It was a reminder that storytelling and building a strong community are key to growing any business.

Click here to read more about the workshop

Watch the highlights of the workshop here

7. Celebrating Our First 20 Global Family Members

 

This year, we hit a major milestone by launching our Global membership and celebrating our first 20 Bellafricana Global Family members in just 2 months!! These creatives are leading the way, and we’re so proud to have built a community that fosters growth, collaboration, and global opportunities.Bellafricana 20 Global Members Milestone in 2024

 

Click here to read more about the milestone

8. Bukky Asehinde at the House of the Lord’s with TikTok Creative Academy

Our founder, Bukky Asehinde, was invited to the House of the Lord’s by TikTok Creative Academy this year. This prestigious invitation reflects the work we’re doing to promote African creativity and innovation on the global stage.

Bukky Asehinde visit to house of the Lord's Top 10 moments of 2024 in Bellafricana Picture from house of the Lord's visit

Watch more highlights of the event here

9. Bellafricana Global Family Meetup in London

This year, we launched our global membership and hosted our first-ever physical meetup for the Bellafricana Global Family in London. This gathering was a chance for members to connect, share experiences, and gain invaluable insights directly from our founder, Bukky Asehinde.

Global members physical meetup in London

Global members physical meetup in London

Watch more highlights of the event here

10. Bellafricana at the African Fashion Week in London

African creativity was on full display at the African Fashion Week in London, and Bellafricana was there to be a part of it. It was amazing to see African fashion take the spotlight on such a global stage.

Watch the highlights of the event here

Here’s to 2025!

2024 has been a year of growth, collaboration, and community, and we’re so grateful to have shared it with you and have you as part of Bellafricana top 10 moments of 2024. As we look forward to 2025, we’re ready to do even more to empower creatives and showcase African talent to the world. Thank you for being part of the Bellafricana journey.

Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce

Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce

Bellafricana partnered with Salesforce to host a special Christmas marketplace at the Salesforce HQ in London, UK. This Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce marked Bellafricana’s second partnership with Salesforce after our first in October to celebrate Black History month.

Salesforce is a global leader in customer relationship management (CRM) and has been a strong advocate for black-owned small businesses and independent African creatives. Beyond providing technology solutions, they actively create opportunities for small businesses to reach wider audiences and grow. This collaboration with Bellafricana is part of Salesforce’s ongoing efforts to support diversity and inclusion by helping African entrepreneurs showcase their talents on a global stage.

Salesforce has been a great ally in helping our members reach a global audience, and this collaboration has further highlighted their commitment to supporting small businesses and African creatives.

Bellafricana partnership with Salesforce
Bellafricana partnership with Salesforce

A Growing Partnership With Salesforce

Our partnership with Salesforce began in October, when we worked together to celebrate Black History Month. That first collaboration gave African creatives a platform to share their stories, connect with global audiences, and showcase their unique talents. Building on that success, this Christmas marketplace was another incredible opportunity to spotlight our community and celebrate African innovation.

Watch the highlights of the event here.

Watch the highlights of the event here.

Watch the highlights of the event here.

Bellafricana Black History Month Marketplace With SalesforceBellafricana Black History Month Marketplace With SalesforceSpotlighting Our Incredible Members At The Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce

Two Bellafricana Global members, Adebukola Rebecca Kadiri, the founder of TDP Home, and Iyabo Ademosu, the founder of MassassiB, had the amazing opportunity to showcase their unique products to a global audience. From stunning home decor to beautiful handcrafted items, their work received well-deserved attention and admiration.

Our founder, Bukky Asehinde, was also there to cheer them on and show her support as they proudly represented African creativity on the world stage.

Watch the highlights of the event here.

Picture of TDP Home At the Salesforce Event
Picture of TDP Home At the Salesforce Event
Picture of Massassib At the Salesforce Event
Picture of Massassib at the Salesforce Event
Picture of Bellafricana Founder, Bukky Asheinde with TDP Home, and Massassib
Picture of Bellafricana Founder, Bukky Asheinde with TDP Home, and Massassib At the Salesforce Event
Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce
Picture of A Customer Excited To Shop From TDP Home

Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With SalesforceBukky Asehinde, founder Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With SalesforceThe Power of Community

The success of the Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce event wasn’t just about the products on display, it was a testament to the strength of the Bellafricana community. Bellafricana’s Christmas Marketplace with Salesforce highlighted how a strong network can open doors to bigger opportunities for African creatives.

The Bellafricana community has always been about helping small, independent creatives reach bigger opportunities, and this marketplace was a perfect example of that. It’s a reminder that being part of a strong, connected network can take your business to the next level.

Exciting Things Ahead: TALES 2025

This partnership is just the beginning! We’re super excited to announce TALES by Bellafricana, our annual signature marketplace event, which will run from July 25th to August 2nd, 2025.

TALES (The African Lifestyle Experience) is a curated pop-up event designed to spotlight African creativity, lifestyle, and craftsmanship on a global stage. Early bird registration for vendors is now live!

Click here to register for TALES 2025.

Join the Bellafricana Global Family

Ready to take your creative business to the global stage? Join our growing family and unlock incredible opportunities! By joining the Bellafricana Global Family, you can access events, partnerships, and a community that supports your growth. Together, we can help you achieve your goals and shine globally.

Click here to join us today. 

The Bellafricana Christmas Marketplace With Salesforce was a beautiful reminder of what’s possible when we come together. We’re so proud of our members and can’t wait to see what’s next.

Stay tuned for more updates about TALES 2025 and other exciting initiatives. Let’s keep growing, supporting, and celebrating African creativity!

 

Understanding your target audience as a creative business owner

Understanding Your Target Audience As A Creative Business Owner

Understanding your target audience is one of the most important steps in growing your creative business. When you speak their language, you can better connect, engage, and provide what they truly need. Here’s how to get to know your audience and make your marketing efforts more effective:

1. Define Your Ideal Customer

Start by creating a clear picture of who your ideal customer is. Think about their age, gender, interests, and the problems your products can solve for them. Building a customer persona is a great way to narrow down your target audience and create a tailored approach. The more specific you are, the better you can meet their needs and craft marketing strategies that speak directly to them.

2. Engage with Your Audience

Don’t just post content, actively engage with your audience! Ask questions, run polls, and conduct surveys to gather insights. Social media is a great tool for interacting directly with your community. Hosting Q&A sessions or simply responding to comments and messages will deepen your connection and allow you to better understand their preferences.

3. Analyze Your Competitors

Take a look at your competitors and analyze their strategies. Who are they targeting, and how are they engaging with their audience? By studying their approach, you can identify opportunities in the market where you can differentiate your business. If you see a gap or a common need that’s being overlooked, you can step in and offer something unique that resonates with your target audience.

4. Utilize Analytics Tools

Analytics tools are gold when it comes to understanding your audience’s behavior. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook offer insights into who is engaging with your content. Look at the demographics, interests, and engagement rates of your audience. This data can help you refine your strategy and make informed decisions about how to better connect with your followers.

5. Be Open to Feedback

Feedback from your customers is invaluable. After someone makes a purchase, reach out with a quick follow-up to ask about their experience. Encourage both positive and constructive criticism, as it can help you improve your products or services. Showing that you care about their feedback not only strengthens customer relationships but also provides key insights for growing your business.

Want to Learn More About Understanding Your Target Audience?

If you’re ready to dive deeper into understanding target your audience and growing your business, becoming a Bellafricana local or global member will give you the tools, guidance, and community support you need.

👉🏾 Sign up through the link below to join us today!

https://bellafricana.com/membership-package/

The power of branding, storytelling and community

Join Scott Ohene-Nyako, founder of 478 Studios, for a special workshop where he’ll share practical ways to build a brand that reflects who you are and what you do. The workshop is FREE for Bellafricana global members, while non-members can attend for just £30.

For small business owners breaking into new markets, standing out often depends on how well you create a clear and consistent brand. A strong brand helps you connect with your audience, grow your community, and open doors to new opportunities. But where do you start?

On December 11th, join Scott Ohene-Nyako, founder of 478 Studios, for a special workshop where he’ll share practical ways to build a brand that reflects who you are and what you do.

The workshop is FREE for Bellafricana global members, while non-members can attend for just £30.

What You’ll Learn:
Scott will guide you through simple and practical steps, including:

👉🏾 How to find your unique voice and share stories that connect with your audience.
👉🏾 How to identify your brand’s values and show them in everything you do.
👉🏾 How to use your personal brand to explain your business purpose clearly.
👉🏾 How to choose the right platforms to share your story and reach more people.
👉🏾 Real-life examples of brands that tell their stories well and how you can do the same.

Why This Workshop is Important for Creative Businesses
A strong brand can help you:

• Gain the trust of your customers.
• Make your products and services more memorable.
• Show the world what makes your business special.
• Reach more people and grow your community.

No matter the size of your business, this workshop is perfect for anyone in fashion, arts, crafts, or other creative fields who wants to take their business to the next level.

Meet Your Host
Scott Ohene-Nyako is the founder of 478 Studios, a global branding and design agency. He believes that good branding and storytelling can help small businesses grow and become known to a wider audience.

Why You Should Join Bellafricana
Bellafricana’s global membership gives you free access to workshops like this and connects you with a supportive community of creative entrepreneurs. You’ll also get tools and advice to help your business grow.

This is your chance to learn from experts, meet other business owners, and build your brand the right way.

Click  https://bellafricana.com/membership-package/  to join Bellafricana’s global membership or register for the workshop today!

Bellafricana to Host Free Webinar: How AI Can Help Grow Your Creative Business Globally in 2025

From Local to Global: How AI Can Boost Your Sales and Visibility Globally in 2025 with Chelsea Monye

African creative entrepreneurs looking to expand their businesses globally in 2025 are invited to join Bellafricana’s free webinar, “From Local to Global: How AI Can Boost Your Sales and Visibility Globally in 2025,” on the 23rd of November, 2024.

In today’s digital landscape, African creatives face unique challenges, from limited visibility and slow sales to customer retention. This webinar is designed to equip business owners with the tools and strategies they need to overcome these challenges and succeed in global markets by leveraging AI (Artificial Intelligence). Participants will learn about affordable and practical AI tools that can automate business processes, improve customer engagement, and drive more sales.

Key Takeaways Include:

  • AI-Powered Sales & Conversion Tools: Learn how AI can enhance customer experiences and boost your sales with tools like chatbots and personalized recommendations.
  • Content Creation & Automation: Discover AI platforms that create high-quality, engaging content for your social media and websites with minimal effort.
  • Lead Generation & Customer Nurturing: Explore how AI can help you attract and retain customers through automated follow-ups and CRM tools.
  • Global Market Expansion: Find out how to use AI to manage global operations and target international audiences with precision.
  • E-commerce & Inventory Management: Simplify order management and inventory optimization with AI-driven solutions.

Chelsea Monye, an AI & Automation Expert, to Lead the Webinar
The webinar will be led by Chelsea Monye, a seasoned business strategist and AI & automation expert with over 8 years of experience working with small businesses. Chelsea has a proven track record of driving over $1 million in sales for global companies and is passionate about helping African creatives scale their businesses with AI solutions.

All attendees will receive the “Small Business AI Toolkit for 2025,” a curated guide to the best AI tools categorized by function (sales, content creation, lead generation, etc.), with actionable tips on integrating them into their businesses.

Webinar Details:

  • Date: 23rd of November, 2024
  • Time: 11am GMT+1
  • Where: Online (Zoom)

How to Register:
Creatives and entrepreneurs interested in attending this value-packed webinar can register for free here.

About Bellafricana:
Bellafricana is a platform dedicated to empowering African creative entrepreneurs by providing access to resources, tools, and global markets. With a growing community of over 20,000 creatives, Bellafricana supports black-owned creative businesses in fashion, art, crafts, lifestyle and more. Through workshops, marketplace opportunities, and strategic partnerships, Bellafricana helps businesses thrive in the global economy.

For more information on the webinar and to register, visit here.

Google SEO Course With Bukky Asehinde

Google SEO

Getting noticed online might feel like a challenge, but The Invisible To Page One Google SEO Course with Bukky Asehinde is here to make it easier. In this blog post, we’ll explore how this course helps people and businesses step into the spotlight on the first page of Google search results.

Google SEO

Finding Your Way Online:

Navigating the internet can be confusing, especially if you’re invisible to Google search engines. The Invisible To Page One Google SEO Course will be your guide, showing you the ropes of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and how to get noticed.

Understanding SEO:

SEO might sound like a techy term, but this course breaks it down. You’ll learn the secrets of SEO and gain practical skills to boost your online content and climb up the Google search engine ladder.

Creating Content that Works:

Content is crucial, but not all content is created equal. The course teaches you effective content strategies, so you can create engaging, relevant, and search-friendly content that speaks to your audience.

Mastering Keywords:

Keywords are like the secret codes for Google search engines. The course teaches you how to find and use keywords effectively, making sure your content matches what people are looking for.

Understanding Analytics:

Success is measurable, and the course emphasizes the importance of analytics. You’ll learn how to read data, track your progress, and make smart decisions to keep improving.

Community and Friendship:

   It’s more fun to share the journey. The Page One Course creates a community where you can connect, share your experiences, and learn from others who’ve faced similar challenges.

Setting You Up for Future Success:

   This course isn’t just about today; it’s an investment in your future online success. By giving you the skills to navigate the digital world, The Invisible To Page One (IPO) Google SEO Course empowers you to stay visible and relevant in the years to come.

Google SEO

Going from invisible to the first page of Google search results is a big deal. The Invisible To Page (IPO) One Google SEO Course is like a friendly guide, helping individuals and businesses not just be online but stand out in the vast digital world. And also become top and trusted in your industry.

How to Avoid Burnout as a Creative Entrepreneur

Burnout
Introduction:

Being a creative entrepreneur is exciting, but it can be overwhelming. This blog post shares easy tips to help you protect your well-being and avoid burnout as you navigate the world of creative business.

Staying healthy

1. Set Clear Work and Life Limits:

Decide when work starts and ends, and create a space just for work. This way, you keep your creative energy safe and find a balance between your job and personal life.

BURNOUT

2. Make Time for Yourself:

Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Sleep well, eat good food, and move your body. Doing things that make you happy and relaxed is crucial for a healthy mind.

BURNOUT

3. Break Big Tasks into Small Steps:

Don’t let big projects stress you out. Break them into smaller tasks that are easier to handle. Achieving small goals feels great and keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.

BURNOUT

4. Ask for Help When Needed:

You don’t have to do everything alone. If things get too much, share tasks with others. This could mean hiring someone or teaming up with fellow creatives.

BURNOUT

5. Plan Relaxing Time:

Schedule breaks for yourself. Whether it’s a short break during the day or a day off, taking time to relax prevents burnout and keeps your creativity alive.

BURNOUT

6. Find Inspiration Outside of Work:

Look for inspiration beyond your business. Explore different arts, try new hobbies, and appreciate the simple things. This variety can spark new ideas and keep you excited about your work.

BURNOUT

7. Connect with Other Creatives:

Don’t be alone in your creative journey. Connect with other creatives, online or offline. Sharing experiences with people who understand can make you feel supported and less stressed.

Staying healthy

8. Don’t Overcommit:

It’s okay to say no. You can’t do everything. Focus on what matters most to you and say no to things that might make you too busy or stressed.

Staying healthy

9. Take Time to Look Back and Celebrate:

Think about your journey and celebrate your achievements, big or small. This helps you feel good about your progress and motivates you to keep going.

Staying healthy

Conclusion:

Being a creative entrepreneur should be fun, not exhausting. By taking small steps to care for yourself and your work, you can enjoy your creative journey without burning out. Remember, your well-being is the key to your creativity and success.

Bounce Back December Bootcamp 2022

Bellafricana Bounce Back December Bootcamp Day 1

Bellafricana is set to hold the third edition of the Bounce Back December Bootcamp. You are specially invited to the bounce back December bootcamp 2022. A 2-day virtual bootcamp which is scheduled to hold on the 25th and 26th of November, 2022.  This bootcamp promises to be engaging, incisive, detailed, seasoned and profitable to every creative business owner.

This year has been somewhat interesting with highs and lows for many businesses and there is need for guidance, support and reorientation to put these budding businesses on the path of profitability.

The bootcamp aims to help businesses with the following:

1. Becoming more profitable.

2. Running sales campaigns in December.

3. Collaborating profitably with other business owners.

Bellafricana bounce back december bootcamp 2022

The purpose of this event is to awaken the minds of creative business owners, motivate and teach strategies to run a successful December campaign, and stay profitable in business.

This initiative was birthed during COVID to renew the minds of creative businesses who had been affected to give December their best shot literally and make sales.

The 2-day FREE event has been mapped out where;

Day 1 is to motivate you: We have put in place business owners who have made good success in the year to share some major tips and strategies they implemented to help others.

Day 2 is to teach you: We have put in place experts to talk to you about different aspects of “how to make sales.”

Click here to register for this bootcamp

Bellafricana bounce back december bootcamp 2022

Bounce back December Bootcamp Day 1

The first day of the event will host two great speakers, Mr. Adebayo Jones who is an award-winning fashion designer and  Mrs. Olusola Sowemimo, the founder of Ope farms. These speakers have done excellently in their line of profession and are ready to share their wins and milestones as well as their challenges and losses. click here to register.

Bellafricana bounce back december bootcamp 2022

Do you know you get a free e-book upon registration that guides you on the best campaigns to run this December for your business and the best marketing channels to leverage on?

This e-book is the complete guide that puts you through the types of campaigns to run in December for your business and what to consider while running these campaigns. It also details and explains how to leverage on market channels for your business and guides you on how to collaborate with brands this December.

Click here to register.

Bellafricana bounce back december bootcamp 2022

Bounce back December Bootcamp Day 2

On this day, creatives will be taught on how to make sales. This is an interesting time to meet with the founder and chairman of one of Nigeria’s best Digital marketing skill institutes, Mr. Tobi Asehinde (founder of Digital Marketing Skill Institute), whose business has extended beyond the shores of Nigeria. With his skills and expertise, he has helped lot of entrepreneurs build a good structure for their business.

What is business without the knowledge of copywriting. Day 2 will also feature a copywriting guru, who will give more depth and insight on strategies where you can make good sales copy to increase productivity. click here to register.

Bellafricana bounce back december bootcamp 2022

Conclusion

This year has been quite rough for businesses, with the incessant rise and fall in dollar rate, the numbers kept falling and things got worse before they got better. The economy is looking up for many businesses; sales are going up and the future looks bright. The question is: How can you take advantage of this opportunity and do even better in the next 12 months? If you haven’t registered for this boot camp, please do so, and see your sales bounce back by next sales years.

Bellafricana Bounce Back December Bootcamp Day 1Bellafricana Bounce Back December Bootcamp Day 2 Speakers.png

YES! you need to put together a strategic plan for the next year. Just think about it: If your sales dropped 50% this year, and you know they are going to increase 50% in your next year, you’re still going to make more money. And we’re not talking about a measly 10% increase here, we’re talking about 50%. That’s huge! How is that possible? It’s possible only if you take part in this bounce back December bootcamp!

 

Exclusive Interview with Aderonke, Founder of Mimiremi Textiles

Exclusive interview with Aderonke Jaiyeola, founder of Mimiremi Textiles on Bellafricana

She had worked in the fashion industry for 7 years before re-focusing on textile design and became the founder of Mimiremi Textiles. Her long term goal is to build a digital pattern gallery with thousands of African designs that can be used on different surfaces.

She is the founder of Mimiremi Textiles. Let’s meet her

 

Please introduce yourself and your background 

My name is Aderonke Jaiyeola, I am presently based in Lagos, Nigeria. I grew up in a family of Fine artists, my dad is a graphics designer and painter while my mum is a graphics designer with specialization in Calligraphy. I have always been surrounded by creatives and it greatly influenced my decision to become an artists too. I enjoy watching the sunrise and sunset daily, I enjoy reading and researching on healthy foods and recipe.

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

Presently, I am the head of Design Team and founder of Mimiremi Textiles, where we transform plain fabrics into beautiful work of art using eco-friendly ink and rhinestones. All our fabrics are designed and hand printed by skilled women I have trained over the years. I studied Fine Arts at the Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun state, Nigeria and specialized in Textile Design.

I worked in the fashion industry for 7 years before re-focusing on textile design and print. While still working in the fashion industry, I got a brief to design a collection of fabrics for a top fashion brand in Lagos, Nigeria. Excitedly I took up the challenge even though we were not taught how to create seamless patterns with corel draw, illustrator and other design soft wares, I spent hours learning on YouTube after I got the brief.

In school, we were taught batik, tie and dye , screen printing etc. The challenge propelled me to learn online and apply all I learnt to successfully implement the project. The fabrics became a bestseller for the brand and was featured on runways both local and international, in top magazines and worn by international models. The success story gave me the confidence to rebrand the business from a fashion brand to a textile design brand in 2016. Since then, Mimiremi Textiles has evolved with many best selling fabric prints and patterns.

Also Read: Meet The Founder of Aso Ibile Mi [Exclusive Interview]

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

‘Mimiremi’ is from the Yoruba intonation on my name ‘Aderonke ‘ translated remimiremi. I decided to remove the first ‘re’ and use the Mimiremi only. I love it and chose it because it sounds fun, African and Artistic.

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

In market segmentation, there is a place for research. For many years I researched on how to create a niche for Mimiremi Textiles, I asked questions and worked on solving the problem raised. For example, fashion designers really wanted to have their own ideas printed on fabric instead of using fabrics found in the Local market, a fabric design that is 100%t theirs. I decided to focus on helping designers solve this problem and we started out by creating designs locally but printing them on different fabrics with our partners in Asia. We ran this model for 2 years till it became unsustainable because of the constantly rising exchange rate.

We decided to start researching into how to print our designs on fabric locally and came up with 2 solutions- screen printing and stencil printing, it became an instant hit and we were able to create art work on clothings and fabrics using eco-friendly ink. The beauty of the technique is that we can print on as low as half a yard, we can print on fabrics and keep reprinting as many times as possible even if the designer comes back in 6 months or one year. I was also able to train women in my community to print and work in the studio

Where do you get the inspiration for your products

I love Africa and it reflects in my designs, most of my designs are influenced by the rich African culture that I love so much. My work is also influenced by nature’s beauty- flowers, sunset, butterflies and so much more.

Can you remember one of the first products you made? What makes it memorable?

I stumbled on a notebook/journal I made for my dad while in school, I used Batik on it and wrote ‘I love you Dad’ with acrylic paint. The day I saw it on my Dads table last year, I was amazed about how good it still looked after more than 16years. It was indeed memorable because that was my first line of business, using my batik designs as book cover and the fact that my dad kept it in his library for so many years.

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

There are so many challenges facing small businesses in Africa especially Nigeria. One of the major challenge we faced is the unstable and rising exchange rate coupled with unfriendly government policies, it has made it very difficult to print our digital designs from Asia and also made it difficult to ship in our eco-friendly ink. The unstable power supply has also made it difficult for us to automate our printing process. The beauty of challenges anyway is that they make you think of a way around the problems and make you invent new ways of achieving results. We have been considering new ways of transferring our designs on fabric and clothing using a material we can easily source for locally, something that will appeal to our customers and which can also open up other markets for us. We are presently introducing our rhinestone designs to the market and the response has been great.

Do you have any regrets venturing into this line of business?

Not at all, it’s been challenging but a great learning experience.

What is your most popular product?

Our most popular product is our hand painted fabric but with the new product,(RHINESTONE on clothing and fabrics)we are introducing to the market, we foresee it will become a major best seller in the next one year.

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

My African(Nigerian) heritage is rubber stamped in almost all my designs.

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

My short term goal is to build an interactive e-commerce store and pattern gallery that will incorporate at least 50 patterns and all our other products and services so as increase daily sales and annual turn over.

My long term goal is to build a Digital pattern gallery with thousands of African designs that can be used on different surfaces. I also want to go back to school for my PhD and also lecture in one of the top Art schools in the world.

What would people be surprised to learn about you

I hardly watch TV, I prefer reading and drawing.

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

Nutrition and healthy living therapist or a Teacher.

 If you could give one piece of advice to anyone who wants to start their own business in your industry, what would it be?
Never be afraid to ask your potential customers questions so as to be able to create a solution they will love to buy. Also keep researching on new updates in your industry and how to apply it to scale up your business.
Mimiremi Textiles handmade in Nigeria
Mimiremi Textiles handmade in Nigeria, bellafricana member

To connect with the foundrr of Mimiremi, you can follow and contact her via:

Instagram: Mimiremi

Whatsapp: 08034898474

ACE Awards 2021 Official Post Event Press Release

ACE AWARDS 2021

Bellafricana held its 3rd edition of The African Creative Exhibition and Awards, [ACE Awards], on Friday, the 29th 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.

Creatives Connect & Exhibition 2021

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

Newly inducted Ambassador

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.

ACE AWARDS 2021

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

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