Anjola Ajayi published in Community, Events, People & Culture, Travel

Get Ready for TALES by Bellafricana in London: Your Ultimate Guide to the Venue!

Hey creative, Anjola your friendly Community Manager here. The sun has been shining in the United Kingdom and other countries lately, that means it is Summer time! 

Are you ready for an unforgettable experience in the heart of London? I sure am. From July 4th to July 10th, 10am to 9pm daily – join us at Gallery Different (14 Percy Street, London W1T 1DR) for TALES: The African Lifestyle Experience. A week-long immersive and vibrant celebration of African creativity, innovation and cultural diversity that will leave you inspired, energised and connected. Click here for the event schedule and here for the list of creatives that will be showcasing at TALES by Bellafricana.

To ensure you have a stress-free and fun-filled adventure, follow our handy checklist and guide to get to the venue like a pro! 

Please note:

This event is free by way of RSVP using this link, it should take less than 1 minute to do this, go right ahead and remember to return to continue reading. Thank you, now let us begin.

 

Checklist: 
  • Wallet : don’t forget your cash, cards and oyster!
  • Phone and portable charger : capture memories and stay connected, share your experience on social media using #TALESinLondon or #TALESofAfrica – your instagram/tiktok followers will love it.
  • Comfortable shoes : you’ll be dancing, walking and exploring at TALES so the least you could do for your feet is wear comfy shoes – whatever comfortable looks like is completely subjective to you so feel free.
  • Sun protection : TALES will be taking place indoors, at Gallery Different W1T 1DR. However incase the sun is really “sun-ing” that week, please come with a hat, sunglasses or apply some sunscreen before you leave home so you are prepared for some outdoor fun!
  • Dress to impress : all are welcome at TALES…however…if your friend tells you “I’m not really dressing up today” side eye. We can’t wait to see your style! The theme of TALES is “Undiscovered Africa” so it’s only right that the dress code is in alignment. 
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Getting to the Venue: 
  • By Tube : Take the Northern line to Tottenham Court Road Station (just a 5 minute walk to the venue, 3 minutes if you usually brisk walk  – easy peasy!)
  • By Bus : Hop on the 14, 24 or 29 bus to Percy Street (stop: Tottenham Court Road – pretty straightforward this way)
  • By Car : Limited parking available nearby – consider other transport options or carpooling (we’re eco friendly too!) 

To make things even easier, this link will take you directly to google maps where you can find out the distance from where you currently are – stress free. 

 

Event details: 

Date: July 4th – July 10th 2024

Time: 10am – 9pm Daily

Venue: Gallery Different, 14 Percy Street, London W1T1DR (near Oxford Street, off Tottenham Court Road).

RSVP for free using this link  

Make sure to mark your calendar so you don’t forget <3 …. Thank me later 😉

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Quick Break ⏸

Now, if you don’t mind and have 30 seconds to spare, I’d love to hear from you.

→ Yes, thank you, click this link (here for this 1-question form) to let me know who/what you’re looking forward to seeing at TALES by Bellafricana this July.

 

→ Trivia of the Week 🧠

To keep things light and fun, let’s play a game. 

“How well do you know Africa?”

The question of the week is : In terms of population, what is the largest city in Africa?

The options for the answer are as follows: 

A. Lagos 

B. Cairo

C. Nairobi

D. Marrakesh 

Leave your answer in the comment section, remember this is just for fun.

 

→ When you’re done with that, feel free to check out our social media channels ↓

Join our Instagram community 

We’re getting popular on Tiktok

Click to connect with us on Linkedin 

Join our followers on X (twitter..?)

Subscribe for our Youtube videos

Read some more Articles 

& Don’t be a stranger, leave a follow or a like or two. Better yet, comment something like “Keep the blogs coming” to stay in the loop, also so we know you were here 🤝.

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If, for some weird reason, you’ve missed hearing about Bellafricana before now, allow us to introduce ourselves:

Bellafricana is more than just a platform; it’s a thriving community of African creatives dedicated to supporting and empowering entrepreneurs in the arts & crafts, fashion, beauty, and home & living industries. Led by our visionary CEO, Bukky Asehinde, we’ve been championing African creativity for over a decade, providing the right business support and structure for our members to thrive in a global market. Essentially, we want to see African creative entrepreneurs win internationally.

At Bellafricana, our mission is clear: to be the premier destination for buyers worldwide seeking quality African-made/inspired products. We uphold the highest standards of business ethics and integrity in every interaction with our members, customers, partners, and employees. Through our dedication to excellence, we not only drive economic progress in Africa but also inspire others to contribute to the continent’s development and social advancement.

We understand the importance of business management in creative enterprises, which is why we provide valuable resources and insights on why email marketing is essential for businesses. Most importantly, we chronicle African creative culture through the distinctive perspective of Africans for a global target audience. 

Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the world, starting with Africa. 

In summary: Bellafricana is more than just a platform; it’s a vibrant community where African creativity flourishes. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a buyer, or simply passionate about African culture, there’s a place for you here. Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to empower African creatives and showcase the beauty of our continent to the world.

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As we come to the end of this read, I thought it best to conclude with this.

TALES is more than just a pop up event happening in London July 4th-10th 2024 – it’s a movement that empowers African creatives, promotes cultural exchange and celebrates the continents rich diversity. By attending, you’ll be part of something big; a community that is shaping the future of African creativity and entrepreneurship. 

Get Your Tickets Now – you don’t want to miss out on this unforgettable experience, secure your spot today and be part of the ultimate cultural celebration!

You can RSVP for FREE using this link.

We at Bellafricana look forward to welcoming you to TALES: The African Lifestyle Experience! 

On that note, see you at TALES. 

Bye for now. 

Bellafricana presents The African Lifestyle Experience (TALES) London’s latest lifestyle event of the Year!
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Bellafricana published in Arts & Crafts, bellafricana, Community, Exhibitions, Life Style,

8 Amazing African Artists To Look Out For

From visual arts to music, literature to fashion, the African continent continues to give birth to extraordinary talent that captivates the world. In this blog post, I invite you to embark on a journey through the fascinating and inspiring world of African artistry.

Let me introduce you to eight incredible African artists who are making waves, breaking boundaries, and reshaping the artistic landscape.

  1. LAYO BRIGHT

This brand captures art gracefully using glasswork, In the world of art and creative expression, there are individuals who shine brightly, transforming ordinary materials into extraordinary masterpieces. Layo Bright, a talented artist and glasswork extraordinaire, is one such luminary. With a delicate touch and a keen eye for detail, Layo has mastered the art of capturing beauty, emotion, and imagination through the medium of glass.

2. RONKE SCOTT

Ronke scott captivates her audience using unique canvas and artwork to tell African stories. Ronke Scott is one such artist who masterfully captures the essence of African narratives through her unique canvases and mesmerizing artwork. With each stroke of her brush, she breathes life into the untold tales of the continent.

Her isn’t confined to traditional boundaries. She delves into uncharted territory, experimenting with different mediums and techniques to convey the rich ambiance of African culture, history, and diversity. Her work is a vivid tapestry of colors, emotions, and experiences, which come together to tell stories that resonate with both the African audience and those who admire the continent from afar.

3. ARTINI

Artini, a proudly Nigerian-owned brand, is one such shining star in the world of craftsmanship. Their unique and imaginative use of nails and strings transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, resulting in stunning mirrors, captivating wall clocks, and exquisite center tables that redefine the concept of functional art. Artini is not just about decor; it’s about celebrating the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places, and the brand’s creations are a true testament to the power of art to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

4. LANRE OLAGOKE

In the heart of London, a dynamic force in the art world emerges – Lanre Olagoke, a celebrated Nigerian artist whose creative genius knows no bounds. With his brush and canvas, Lanre has become a bridge, connecting the rich culture of his Nigerian heritage with the cosmopolitan energy of London. His works are a testament to the fusion of cultures and ideas, a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Through his brushstrokes, he captures the essence of life, the vibrant spirit of his homeland, and the dynamic influences of his London base. His canvases are windows to a world where imagination takes flight, where color and form dance in harmony, and where stories are told in strokes of brilliance.

5. ART BY SPECTABILIS

This creative uses his brand for advocacy and awareness. Creativity isn’t limited to aesthetic expression alone; it can also be a powerful tool for advocacy and raising awareness. One such luminary who exemplifies this artistic approach is Art by Spectabilis. Through their creations, this artist shed light on important issues, sparking conversations and championing causes that demand our attention.

6. 5AND10 KRAFTZONE

Art knows no bounds, and 5and10 Kraftzone is a testament to the boundless possibilities of creativity. This enigmatic creative spirit is a master of diverse artistic expressions, from sculpting life into inanimate materials to folding paper into intricate origami masterpieces and weaving stories through the entwining strings of string art. With 5and10 Kraftzone, there is no limit to the artistic horizons explored. Every creation is a unique exploration of the artist’s vision, a glimpse into a world where materials transform into emotions, and imagination takes shape in myriad forms.

7. DOTUN DAVID POPOOLA

He calls himself the envirornmentalist. and this is showcased in his artwork. Dotun’s art is more than just visual appeal; it’s a powerful medium for environmental consciousness. Through his brushstrokes and creativity, he paints a vivid picture of the challenges our planet faces. His work showcases the beauty of nature, the threats it endures, and the urgent need for environmental conservation. His work is a testament to the power of art in bringing about change and advocating for a more sustainable future.

8. JOSEPH DAIRO

There are those whose creative voices not only resonate but also echo through time, leaving a lasting impact on those who are fortunate enough to experience their work. Joseph Dairo is one such luminary whose artistic journey has not only earned him accolades but has also become a powerful means of storytelling that illuminates the African experience.

With numerous awards adorning his brand, Joseph Dairo is more than just an artist; he’s a maestro of African narratives. His work is a canvas where history, culture, and contemporary issues converge to weave stories that are both timeless and deeply relevant. Through his art, he doesn’t merely paint pictures; he narrates the experiences, aspirations, and challenges of a diverse and multifaceted continent.

CONCLUSION

As we celebrate the amazing African artists and their profound, innovative, and impactful work, let their art be a source of inspiration for us all. Let us be moved by their stories, and let them encourage us to explore our own creative potentials, to advocate for what we believe in, and to use the power of art to make a positive difference in our world. In the end, art is not just a product; it’s a journey, a conversation, a catalyst for change, and a testament to the enduring beauty and boundless imagination of the human spirit.

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Bellafricana published in africa, Articles, bellafricana, Entrepreneurship, Events,

The Evolution, An Exhibition Of African Lusture

the evolution

Jopee Dairo, the creative force behind THE EVOLUTION, is on a mission to bring change and shed light on the rich artistic heritage of the African people. This event is more than just an exhibition; it’s a platform that showcases the evolution of African art and culture.

Jopee Dairo is not just a visual artist but a storyteller, using various digital and mixed media forms to narrate tales from the African perspective. His inspiration is rooted in the greatness of the Black race and the untold stories that lie beneath the surface.

At THE EVOLUTION event, attendees can expect a captivating experience filled with intriguing, educational, and fascinating works of art. These pieces are not merely for purchase but also forging connections and rekindling memories of the goodness that has been lost and the promising future that lies ahead. Click here to register.

Here is an interview session with Jopee Dairo.

ABOUT JOPEE DAIRO

1. What inspired you to become a digital artist?

Ans: Firstly, My name is Gbemisola Joseph Dairo popularly known as Jopee Dairo; I am a Visual Artist with a uniqueness in telling stories from the African perspective using all forms of Digital and Mixed Media. I was inspired by the greatness of the Black race and the untold stories that lie beneath.

2. Can you describe your artistic style and how it has evolved over the years?

Ans: I am a mixed media artist who paints ideas to life with the digital use of African fabric patterns such as Kente, Adinkra, and Ankara. Over the years my Art has moved from mere creation of Artworks using black photography to telling untold stories about the greatness of motherland Africa.

3. What themes or concepts do you explore in your digital art?

Ans: Societal values, history, and change.

4. Are there any artists or influencers who have had a significant impact on your work?

Ans: Yes. These are the likes of Bisa Butler, Mayowa Lawal, and Mayowa Alabi.

5. How do you incorporate African culture and heritage into your digital art?

Ans: Africa is Art and Art is Africa. Photography has been my greatest tool as it gives me the limitless freedom I need to create compelling stories with my Art.

6. Can you share your creative process from idea to finished artwork?

Ans: From the point of conception, I do rough sketches on paper, do research, and prepare my storyboard, and then I relate with my photographer based on the concept. Once we come to terms, we get model(s) who we share the idea with and once that works, we proceed to shoot photography. The last part is when I get to do my digital edit, print, and put off for sale.

7. What challenges have you faced as a digital artist, and how did you overcome them?

Ans: One of the major challenges is finding inspiration not just to create but to continue. Other challenges are in the areas of affording gadgets, power supply, and understanding the markets.

I have found comfort in sharing my challenges with established artists or models whom I look up to in the business of Arts and Creativity. A problem shared is half solved, right? I am not there yet, but I am overcoming my challenges gradually.

8. What achievements or milestones in your career are you most proud of?

Ans: Having my work nominated for best documentary at the African Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCA) 2023, featuring on a project with Ghana’s renowned Glenn Samm, and partnering at the BellAfricana UK Summer Pop-up 2023. I am quite proud of being the only Nigerian in my category and being one of the very few Nigerians to be nominated for the Accra Music and Arts Award 2023.

9. Do you have a favorite piece of artwork that holds special meaning to you?

Ans: Yes I do, and that will be “Wails of a Mother”, a project I did in collaboration with Ghana’s Journalist and Model coach; Titus Dhoku.

10. How can art enthusiasts and collectors connect with you and acquire your digital art pieces?

Ans: I can connect with you on my social media platforms at iamjopeedairo.

ABOUT THE EVOLUTION

1. What inspired you to organize THE EVOLUTION, and what is its overarching mission?

Ans: Change. The mission is to showcase the rich artistic heritage of the African people and how we have evolved.

2. Can you provide an overview of what attendees can expect at the event?

Ans: Everyone should come to the Evolution expecting to see intriguing, educating, and fascinating works of art. These are Arts that they are not just compelled to buy but connect with and spur memories of goodness that have been lost and the better end that fast approaches.

3. How did you select the participating artists and their collections for the exhibition?

Ans: The participating artists are those who have been found with a like mind backed with some indigenous taste in Arts, even in the uniqueness of their styles.

4. What role do you believe events like THE EVOLUTION play in promoting African art and creativity?

Ans: Events like this are pivotal to spreading the awareness of African culture and the dignity that comes with it.

5. Can you share any highlight or unique features of THE EVOLUTION that make it a must-attend event?

Ans: This event is the first of its kind on the mainland of Lagos, Nigeria with international attention in Europe and about five (5) other African countries. The event sets a new standard for artists, photographers, and stakeholders in the creative space in Africa and the diaspora.

6. Are there specific goals or messages you aim to convey through this event?

Ans: Yes there are. Change, standard, freedom, and the endless possibilities that avail for the black race irrespective of the misconceptions of the past or the present are key ideas we aim to preach.

7. How can businesses and organizations benefit from attending THE EVOLUTION?

Ans: We have sponsorships, partnerships, and vendor opportunities for brands and businesses that we will in turn showcase to our audience.

8. Are there any notable speakers or workshops planned during the event?

Ans: No, it’s not an event for workshops, however, there will be lots to learn as exhibitors and brands engage the audience.

9. What steps have you taken to ensure a memorable and immersive experience for the attendees?

Ans: We’ve got a conducive location in the heart of Lagos, music that resonates with the theme of the event, and maximum security.

11. How do you envision the future of THE EVOLUTION and its impact on the creative community?

Ans: The Evolution is a concept that will shift paradigms and change the narratives of the Arts and creative space in Africa.

12. How can individuals interested in attending or supporting the event get involved or obtain tickets?

Ans: All information needed regarding this will be made available on our Instagram page @iamjopeedairo including attendants’ forms as it is a free-to-attend but registration-compulsive event.

Jopee Dairo’s artistic style is a blend of mixed media, where he brings ideas to life using digital techniques and incorporates African fabric patterns such as Kente, Adinkra, and Ankara. His artistic journey has evolved from creating art using black photography to delving deeper into the untold stories that celebrate the greatness of Africa, the motherland. Through his work, he aims to not only create art but also to convey the narratives and histories that often go unheard. This event promises to be very interesting and specifically to help creative brands. Click here to register.

 

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Bellafricana published in Beauty, Exhibitions

Made In Nigeria Cosmetics And Beauty Expo 2022

Made In Nigeria Cosmetics And Beauty Expo 2022

Organizers Announce Date For Made In Nigeria Cosmetics And Beauty Expo 2022

“During the official unveiling of the Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Expo 2022, Barr. Kola revealed that ‘currently, in implementing our strategic interventions, MINCE has ensured the presence of MSME cosmetics products in Abidjan, Togo, Morocco and Kenya. The company is positioned to ensure Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products take their rightful places in the over $14 billion cosmetics industry in Africa

Made in Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products Expo, MINCE press conference which held on Friday 5th of August at Radisson Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos has fixed the 1st to 3rd of October 2022 the for MINCE’s Expo 2022 Fair in Lagos, Nigeria. In attendance were the Chairman and Promoter of the MINCE, Barrister Kola Awe, Co-founders, Mrs Mobola, Mrs Ife Folawiyo, a Director of the body and Lynda Odim. Others include Mr Taofiq Sanni and Dupe Talabi who was chairman of the occasion.

Also in attendance were the representative of the Nigerian Export Promotions Council, Mr O Samuel, Judith Emmanuel, a cosmetic manufacturer while Odionye Oyinye and Obiesie Umolu stood in for Fidelity Bank.

Speaking on why MINCE called the press conference, Barrister Kola Awe told the media that the MINCE would be coming up with a maiden Trade Fair between October 1st to 3rd to showcase developing trends and developments in the Nigeria cosmetic subsector. He further  revealed that in implementing their strategic interventions as at now, MINCE has ensured the presence of MSME cosmetics products in Abidjan, Togo, Morocco and Kenya. The company is positioned to ensure Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products take their rightful places in the over $14 billion cosmetics industry in Africa’.

The representative of NEPC, Mr O. Samuel while affirming the council’s support for the initiative urged manufacturers to gear up to compete favourably with international standards as the fair will further expose their products to the world.

 

Speaking on behalf of the Fidelity Bank, Odionye Oyinye assured the gathering that the bank has enough resources and credit facilities to assist serious manufacturers, regretting that Nigeria accounts for less than 1% of the global cosmetic product.

Press Statement: MSMEs Position for AfCFTA with Made In Nigeria Cosmetics Expo.

In a direct response to the cries of the Nigerian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), MINCE organised a Town Hall meeting with MSMEs drawn from across many states in Nigeria having the express support of the major government regulatory bodies and business associations like the Nigerian Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), TIC, NEPC etc.

The outcome of the town hall meeting with MSMEs in the cosmetics and beauty industry has empowered MINCE with relevant data that MINCE has translated into functional and problem-solving interventions that are directly impacting these MSMEs positively and profitably. In addition to cost reduction for MSMEs, one of its major intervention implementation strategies, MINCE International Concept Ltd has also inaugurated its annual Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products Expo in its project ‘MSMEs: The Road To Export.

The 2022 inaugural edition of the Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products Expo is scheduled to hold from the 1st to the 3rd of October, 2022 at the prestigious Yard 158, Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos. Agencies of the government, cosmetics and beauty communities and national business associations collaborating with MINCE International Concept Ltd. for this year’s Expo include the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), NERC, NICERT, NEXIM, SMEDAN, National Association of Nigerian Traders etc.

According to the board Chairman of MINCE International Concept Ltd, Barr. Kola Awe, the Expo is organised to identify export-ready cosmetics and beauty products in Nigeria and expose them to international markets in Africa and beyond; to identify, prepare, assist and scale up MSME cosmetics and beauty products for international market; help manufacturers gain access to technical interventions in the area of certifications, quality and standards during the Expo; connect manufacturers to mainstream retail outlets; give manufacturers the opportunity to showcase their made in Nigeria cosmetics and beauty products to a large number of consumers and distributors for huge sales opportunities.

During the official unveiling of the Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products Expo, Barr. Kola revealed that ‘currently, in implementing our strategic interventions, MINCE has ensured the presence of MSME cosmetics products in Abidjan, Togo, Morocco and Kenya. The company is positioned to ensure Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products take their rightful places in the over $14 billion cosmetics industry in Africa’.

He assured the Nigerian MSMEs further that the company is poised to ensure cost competitiveness through increased sales, new market penetration, effective and efficient distribution support across Africa and beyond. The process ultimately will ensure and assure MSMEs of increased and consistent profitability to keep them in business and highly competitive in the continent.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Made In Nigeria Cosmetics And Beauty Expo 2022 bellafricana partnership

In attendance were a number of manufacturers and stakeholders in the cosmetics and beauty products subsection of the economy.

Bellafricana is thrilled to announce her partnership with MINCE International Concept Ltd, organisers of Made In Nigeria Cosmetics and Beauty Products Expo 2022 themed ‘MSMEs: The Road To Export.

The Expo is organised to Identify export-ready cosmetics and beauty products in Nigeria and expose them to International markets in Africa and beyond.

The event is also aimed to assist manufacturers to gain access to technical interventions in the area of certifications, quality and standards.

At the Expo Beauty/ Cosmetics manufacturers would have an opportunity to showcase their made in Nigeria cosmetics and beauty products to a large number of consumers and distributors for huge sales opportunities.

Most importantly, they will also be connected to mainstream retail outlets.

Would you like to be an exhibitor? click link to book a stand

Would you like to attend the event as a participant? Click to register for free.

Plan to be part of this revolution in the Cosmetic and Beauty industry 💥

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MaryBarbara published in Bellafricana ACE Awards, Uncategorized

Meet the Exhibitors

Official Exhibitors for ACE AWARDS 2021

Meet the Exhibitors who would be present at the Creatives Connect & Exhibition.

It is an open secret that The African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards) scheduled for Friday the 29th of October, 2021 is a 3-phase event consisting of:

  1. The ACE Awards Dinner [6:00pm – 9:00pm],
  2. The Creatives Connect [10:00am – 4:00pm],
  3. The Exhibition [10:00am – 4:00pm]

All taking place at the BWC Hotels, 1228B Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos Nigeria (Opposite Eko Atlantic).

The Creatives Connect and the Exhibition would take place side by side. This is a great means of networking, marketing and connecting.

Meet the Exhibitors
Bosh Designs

Bosh Designs - Meet the Exhibitors

Mojisola

Mojisola - Meet the Exhibitors

Qamin

Qamin - Meet the Exhibitors

Kuvaah

Kuvaah - Meet the Exhibitors

Modara

Modara- Meet the Exhibitors

Teniyah Art

Teniyah Art- Meet the Exhibitors

Enigbi’s Label

Teniyah Art- Meet the Exhibitors

Zeeza

Zeeza - Meet the Exhibitors

Anesi Naturals

Anesi - Meet the Exhibitors

Abike

Abike - Meet the Exhibitors

Omowunmi OlogeOmowunmi Ologe - Meet the Exhibitors
Scents ProScents Pro - Meet the Exhibitors
To ri araTo ri ara - Meet the Exhibitors
Oba Couture

Oba Couture - Meet the Exhibitors

Adire Nation

Adire Nation - Meet the Exhibitors

Drapes & Apparels

Drapes & Apparels - Meet the Exhibitors

Kijipa Official

Kijipa Official - Meet the Exhibitors

This is multiple opportunities for all attendees as it would serve as an opportunity to connect, converse and collaborate with various entrepreneurs and Industry leaders. You should use this opportunity to get a head start with your Christmas shopping.

These Exhibitors have beautiful products up for grabs with loads of discounts for the first 30 people in attendance. Make sure you do not miss this exhibition experience as it will be loads of savings and shopping for you and your family.

Stay in the loop and follow us on Instagram: @ace_awards

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MaryBarbara published in Bellafricana ACE Awards

ACE Awards nominations have begun!

ACE AWARDS BANNER

The 3rd Edition of the African Creative Exhibition and Awards (ACE Awards) is back and the nominations have begun! ACE Awards, which brings together the best creative minds in the fields of Arts and Crafts, Fashion, Beauty, Food produce and snacks. This ceremony is organized yearly to recognize creative entrepreneurs in the aforementioned categories; with this year’s theme being “Creativity and Innovation in Nation Building”. 

ACE NOMINATION BEGINS
ACE AWARDS NOMINATION BEGINS

Creative Entrepreneurs and consumers of their products can now send in their nominations. The categories are listed below.

CATEGORIES
  1. Best Indigenous Textile Designer
  2. Best Beauty Brand
  3. Best Fashion Brand (Clothing, Shoes)
  4. Best Startup of the Year
  5. Best Accessories Brand (Jewellery, Bags)
  6. Best Eco-friendly Product Innovation
  7. Best Innovative Product of the Year
  8. Best Pioneer Craftsman/woman of the Year (Over 10 years)
  9. Best Food Produce Innovation
  10. Best Creative Children’s Brand 
  11. Best Creative Child Entrepreneur
  12. Best Creative Social Enterprise of the Year
  13. Best Arts & Crafts Person
  14. Best Home & Lifestyle Brand
  15. Best emerging African Brand

In showing our support and in accordance with what we do at Bellafricana, we would be granting 3 lucky Creative Entrepreneurs with the sum of ₦300,000 naira to help support their businesses.

Grant Eligibility Requirements
  1. The candidate must be a Creative Entrepreneur.
  2. Candidates must be nominated for the ACE Awards.
  3. The candidate must have a valid business that falls within one of the following niches:
  • Fashion, 
  • Arts & craft, 
  • Health & Beauty, 
  • Home & living, 
  • Food produces & snacks industry.
Steps to Participate/How to apply
  1. Follow @bell_africana on Instagram
  2. Repost this flyer on your page, tag us as well as your friends
  3. Fill out the form on our website – www.aceawardsafrica.com/nominate
  4. When posting, use the hashtags: #ACE2021 #ACEAwards2021 and #Bellafricana
Benefit

Creative Entrepreneurs will stand to gain $2,500

What are you waiting for? Starting voting!

 

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Bellafricana published in africa, Arts & Crafts, bellafricana, bellafricana ACE, Events,

Bellafricana ACE Awards 2018 | What to Expect at the Second Edition

Creative MSMEs have invaded Nigeria (Africa) and we certainly are not complaining.
In 2016, it became apparent that Nigeria was an import driven nation and that was how the “buy Naija to grow the Naira” came to be.
However, various sects of the economy are realising that for Nigeria to diversify and become an export driven nation, the beam light falls on MSMEs.
A fresh year is on the calendar and it is almost time for the second edition of the annual African Creative Exhibition and Awards (termed ACE Awards) hosted by Bellafricana. It brings to Lagos the best creative minds in the fields of Art and Craft, Fashion, Manufacturing, Beauty, Food Produce and so much more.
Continue reading

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Bellafricana published in Articles, Growth

9 Tips For Vendors And Exhibitors at Exhibitions

Every so often after an exhibition, you hear vendors say “I didn’t sell at that exhibition, I wont go back next year” And they state this fact as though the organizers of the exhibition were supposed to lead attendees to each vendor one after the other. In the same vein you hear other vendors talk about how they sold out all their products and you wonder how that is even possible. 
Exhibitions can be so much fun for both attendees and vendors. You look around, get inspired, network and get contacts for future projects among other things. Sometimes vendors don’t get to partake in all the fun because they are busy, too busy trying to make sales, but they struggle with that because they were unprepared.

Vendors show up to exhibitions, set up nice looking displays and think that is all there is to it. “Bring products, customers will come” However, that is a strategy that stopped working with the rise of more innovative and creative businesses. To be ahead, you need to think ahead and know all the hacks to nailing an exhibition. Below are 9 ways to make sales at your next trade show.

1) BE FRIENDLY AND SMILE

I tell vendors all the time to be friendly and smile; And No, I don’t mean that phony smile that you plaster on your face when there’s a potential customer in view, but a genuine warm and welcoming smile. That would undoubtedly attract attendees to check out your products. No one likes a snob… or do you?

Imagine walking down a long crowded street and someone just flashed you a random bright smile, by default you would be drawn to approach the person.

You want your products to remain top of mind so even if they aren’t going to purchase there and then; they remember you when they do need what you’re selling.

Also Read: http://digest.bellafricana.com/13-signs-meant-entrepreneur/

2) ACKNOWLDGE ATTENDEES

Some people will only approach you when you acknowledge their presence. It can be something as simple as “good morning”. Also with the hustle and bustle and elbow jabbing that comes with trade shows and exhibitions, some people may honestly walk past your stand without actually seeing your products.

Approach attendees; call out a greeting, a compliment or something like that. Just acknowledge that you see them there, because when you really think about it, this is not a boyfriend/girlfriend matter where one is posing for the other. You’re trying to make some money (duh) best leave all ego, shyness and their kissing cousins at home.

3) TELL DON’T SELL

Do not start with a sales pitch once you have the attention of a potential buyer. Tell a story. People don’t buy what you’re doing; they buy why you’re doing it. Most new businesses are so desperate to generate revenue they forget value. For once I would love to hear a vendor say something like “do you know you can get rid of shoe odour with baking soda? As opposed to “You should buy these shoes they would suit you”  

You absolutely cannot keep asking people to come and buy, come and buy. It causes some sort of real life spam, besides that’s what everyone does so why not bring something different and let your approach make you unforgettable.

4) DO NOT BE PUSHY

Yes, approach and engage attendees as you must, but try not to be too pushy. Most vendors literally want to shove their products down your throat. There’s a thin line between assertive and aggressive, try not to cross it.

5) DO NOT BE UNDERSTAFFED

It’s always better to have too many people than too little people helping you at your stand. You can’t afford to be short on staff. I have walked away from many stalls because I was just left standing there unattended to. Recruit friends and family to help if you can’t hire extra hands. It is important that while you’re talking to one customer, someone else is engaging the other and calling out to a potential.

6) SOUVENIRS

At a recent event I attended called the Lagos leather fair, while everyone was handing out complimentary cards, there was this one business -ForFori (makers of leather shoes, belts, wallets and bags) who were giving customers note pads with all their details at the back and product images inside.

I thought that to be very smart, because whether we like it or not, they have imprinted themselves in my mind and made sure they weren’t forgotten soon after the exhibition, because if you make sales at an event what is guarantee that you will get them to come back? Keepsakes. Always have complimentary cards and a freebie. It can be a key ring, a hand band or even a pen. Trust me, it doesn’t have to be anything major. Just be sure to leave something that people will remember you by months after they’ve forgotten about the event.

7) HAVE FUN

You’re the brand ambassador of your business, so leave your poker face at home and have fun. Crack jokes, don’t be static or rigid. You may not be an overtly social person but you know someone who is, get them to come with you. I had a blast at Oeclats stand at the Lagos leather fair. The head designer Gbemmy and her friends made m e laugh so much. I was still hanging around their stand long after I had bought one of their products.

8) MAKE ATTENDEES COMFORTABLE

Attendees are always on their feet at exhibitions, to make your stall one to go to, invest in foldable chairs and keep them within your perimeter. People will appreciate the thought. Offer them water to drink, something to munch on. Making attendees comfortable serves for good future relationships with them.

9) DO NOT STARE

This particularly grinds my gears. Some exhibitors will stare you down because someone somewhere told them to make eye contact with customers. They act like predators and will stare till they see a chance to pounce on you with their products. Kindly review this modus operandi; it will chase your customers away.

Trade show Marketing genius Steve Miller advises exhibitors to avoid the following behaviours during exhibitions.

  • Sitting
  • Reading
  • Texting
  • Receiving calls
  • Standing in the aisle
  • Clustering with members of staff
  • Chewing

Exhibitions are all about being noticed, so create unique experiences and always remember the trick is to staying on top of your game.

Having said all the above, it is also important as an organiser of an exhibition/trade show to attract the right kind of traffic to come and patronise or notice the exhibitors.

If you enjoyed reading this article, feel free to share it.

If you think something was left out or you have a message, why not drop a comment below, we would like to hear and learn from you.

For more business tips and advice, to stay connected or stand a chance to win some giveaways, follow @bell_africana on Instagram and connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn and more.

Visit www.bellafricana.com to see some quality Afrocentric products Made in Nigeria.

 

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