5 Reasons Why You Should Choose African Fashion

In the dynamic world of fashion, diversity, and uniqueness are the keys to making a statement. Africa, with its rich combination of cultures and traditions, has always been a source of inspiration for fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Bellafricana Marketplace is a platform that celebrates and showcases the vibrant, authentic, and creatively diverse world of African fashion. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the heart of African fashion and introduce you to the incredible offerings of Bellafricana Marketplace.

The Essence of African Fashion

African fashion is not just clothing; it’s a story, a reflection of heritage, and a celebration of identity. It combines tradition with modernity, resulting in a unique blend of colors, patterns, and designs that captivate the world. Bellafricana Marketplace is at the forefront of this fashion revolution, promoting African fashion that speaks to the soul.

Heritage and Tradition

African fashion is deeply rooted in the diverse cultures and traditions of the continent. From the intricate beadwork of the Maasai people to the vibrant kente cloth of West Africa, each piece tells a story. Bellafricana Marketplace honors these traditions by offering a curated selection of fashion items that embrace Africa’s rich heritage.

Unique Craftsmanship

One of the hallmarks of African fashion is its unique craftsmanship. Creatives across the continent pour their heart and soul into every piece they create. Bellafricana Marketplace connects you with these skilled craftsmen, allowing you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each item, whether it’s a handwoven accessory, handbag, or beautifully tailored Ankara dress.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an integral part of Bellafricana’s ethos. Many of the products featured on the marketplace are crafted using eco-friendly and locally sourced materials. By supporting African fashion, you not only embrace unique styles but also contribute to sustainable fashion practices that prioritize the environment and local communities.

Exploring Bellafricana Marketplace

Bellafricana Marketplace is a treasure trove of African fashion and lifestyle products. Here’s a glimpse of what you can discover:

Fashion: From contemporary clothing to traditional attire, Bellafricana offers a wide range of fashion items that cater to every style preference. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for a special occasion or everyday wear, there’s something for everyone.

 

Accessories: Elevate your look with stunning African accessories such as beaded jewelry, leather bags, and headwraps. These accessories add a touch of African elegance to any outfit.

Home Decor: African fashion extends beyond clothing. Discover exquisite home decor items like handwoven baskets, Ankara-print cushions, and intricate pottery that bring African culture into your living space.

Beauty and Wellness: Explore natural skincare and beauty products made with indigenous African ingredients. These products not only enhance your beauty but also support local artisans and communities.

Conclusion

Bellafricana Marketplace is more than just a platform; it’s a celebration of African culture and creativity. It’s an invitation to embrace the essence of African fashion, where tradition meets modernity, and craftsmanship reigns supreme.

By choosing African fashion, you not only adorn yourself with unique and beautiful items but also become part of a global movement that values authenticity, sustainability, and cultural diversity. So, why not embark on a journey through Bellafricana’s virtual aisles and discover the magic of African fashion for yourself? Your wardrobe and your soul will thank you for it.

Unleashing African Creativity: The Best Finds on Bellafricana Marketplace

Jurinest necklace on bellafricana marketplace

Africa is a continent brimming with diverse cultures, rich traditions, and a vibrant artistic heritage. From intricate handwoven textiles to beautifully carved wooden sculptures, African creativity knows no bounds. In this blog post, we invite you to embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the best finds on Bellafricana Marketplace, a treasure trove of African craftsmanship.

    1. Handcrafted Jewelry:

Adorn Yourself with African Elegance Discover the allure of African-inspired jewelry, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. From beaded necklaces to statement earrings, each piece tells a unique story and adds a touch of cultural sophistication to any ensemble. Accessories are like vitamins to fashion – you can’t have too many, there is always room for enough. Each with different fiitings, patterns, colours and stones, Jurinest has put in too much into bring light and beauty to accessory, you don’t need a knight in shining armor when you have your statement accessory.

Jurinest necklace on bellafricana marketplace

 

     2. Home Decor Delights:

Transform Your Space with African Flair Bring the spirit of Africa into your home with stunning home decor items. From vibrant Ankara-printed cushions to intricately designed African string arts using nails and strings, these pieces not only beautify your living space but also serve as a testament to the continent’s rich heritage. Products used for this wonderful piece are lcally made, this showcases the uniqueness of African culture and the beauty it beholds. This art is particularly made by Artini.

 

Wall String Art
      3. Fashion Items:

African-Inspired Apparel for Every Style Experience the fusion of tradition and contemporary fashion with African-inspired apparel. Bellafricana Marketplace offers a diverse range of clothing items, from colorful dashikis to elegant Ankara dresses, allowing you to express your individuality through vibrant African prints. This Afrilush Adire bubu gown is a captivating blend of Nigerian cultural heritage and modern fashion sensibilities. Rooted in the age-old art of Adire textile dyeing, this unique gown showcases the beauty of traditional Nigerian craftsmanship while embracing contemporary design elements. Perfect for hangouts, events and any formal occasion.

Adire Bubu Gown

      4. Natural Beauty:

Harnessing the Power of African Skincare Explore the world of African beauty rituals with natural skincare products. From shea butter-infused body lotions to exfoliating soap, cream and serums. These products are crafted with love and harness the nourishing properties of indigenous African ingredients to rejuvenate and pamper your skin. All skincare products in the bellafricana marketplace has been tested and trusted and the results are amazing.

Dara Body Butter

    5. Afrocentric Art:

Elevate Your Walls with African Masterpieces Discover the work of talented African artists and adorn your walls with breathtaking paintings and art prints. From contemporary abstract pieces to traditional African art forms, each creation is a visual celebration of Africa’s rich artistic heritage.

Ronke Scott Gallery Artworks MINIATURES sold on Bellafricana Marketplace

       Conclusion:

Bellafricana Marketplace is a gateway to African creativity, offering a curated collection of exquisite products that embody the essence of the continent. By supporting local African creatives and entrepreneurs, you not only bring a touch of Africa into your life but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of African heritage. Unleash your creativity, embrace African craftsmanship, and let Bellafricana marketplace be your guide to the best finds that the continent has to offer.

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!

Bukky Asehinde appointed as Zero Oil Ambassador for Nigeria

BUKKY ASEHINDE APPOINTED AS ZERO OIL AMBASSADOR FOR NIGERIA

Bukky Asehinde, Founder and CEO of Bellafricana was recently appointed Zero Oil Ambassador for Nigeria. The Special recognition and announcement were made at Bellafricana’s 3rd edition of The African Creative Exhibition and Awards, [ACE Awards], held on Friday, the 29th of October, 2021.

ACE 2021

The Executive Director of The Nigerian Export Promotion Council & President ECOWAS TPO Network, Mr Olusegun Awolowo, announced Bukky Asehinde’s appointment: Zero Oil Ambassador, putting her alongside other Zero Oil Ambassadors such as President Mohammadu Buhari, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu and other prominent Nigerians.

Newly inducted Ambassador

Mr Olusegun Awolowo also awarded the winners at the ACE Awards with the Export Expansion Facility Programme [EEFP] Grant.

WINNERS AT THE ACE AWARDS 2021
Bellafricana took to their official website and Instagram page to celebrate the win:

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.” To read the full article, click on ~~ ACE Awards post press release

PRINCE & MRS ADEFULU AT THE ACE AWARDS 2021

MR. AWOLOWO AT THE ACE WARDS 2021The 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].

MR. LANRE ADISA AT ACE 2021

MR LANRE BASAMATAAlso in attendance were Prince Adeyemi Adefulu, Ms Lerato Lekena-Okoro [Real Estate Advisor], Mr Oluwaseyi Adegoke-Adeyemo (Vice-Chair, Events committee) of Nigeria-Britain Association [NBA], Mrs Eyiyemi Olivia [Compere, OAP & Dress maker], Mr Ayodeji Saba, Mrs Nnena Fakoya-Smith [Tourism Promoter & Visibility Coach] and all of our media and strategic sponsors.

COMPERES AT THE ACE 2021

MRS. NNENA FAKOYA-SMITH AT THE ACE AWARDS 2021The event was proudly sponsored by The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and Access Bank and W-Community, and supported by Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), Digital Marketing Skill Institute (DMSI), Noah’s Ark, Inside Watch Africa, Cybertron Ads, Pride magazine, OWA Foundation, Jordan FM, Exquisite magazine, Pulse Ng, and Arise Television.

ACE Awards 2021 official sponsors & partners

SPONSORS & PARTNERS - ACE 2021This is another feat for the ever industrious Mrs Bukky Asehinde – oops. I mean the newly appointed Zero Oil Ambassador for Nigeria, Mrs Bukky Asehinde. We cannot wait to see what next she has in store for us.

Until next time, be safe and be good!

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

NEPC sponsors ACE Awards 2021

ACE Awards gains massive support and backing from The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), as it sponsors this year’s ACE Awards ceremony.

African Creative Exhibitions and Awards gain massive support and backing from The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), as it sponsors this year’s ACE Awards ceremony.

ACE Awards is an important annual occurrence aimed at attracting an audience that includes Captains of Industry, Investors, Upwardly Mobile Youths, Marketers, Trade Delegations & Missions, Procurement Officers, Brand and Business Managers, Art Lovers, Governmental Representatives and Key Decision Makers. Nigeria is an import driven nation and if we are looking to diversify and become an export-driven nation, it starts from MSMEs. Starting with Nigeria and taking it one African Country at a time. This is one of the numerous reasons why NEPC sponsors the ACE Awards 2021 and supports The ACE Awards.

NEPC sponsors ACE Awards 2021

NEPC sponsors ACE Awards 2021

If you happen to be an ardent follower of the annual ACE Events, then you should know that it is no secret that this event, powered by Bellafricana has been endorsed by The Lagos State Government, Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Crafts, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC), Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Nigeria-Britain Association and The Nigerian Export Promotion Council. The latter has shown its support of this Laudable event since its inception in 2017. It has yet again, sponsored The ACE Awards 2021.

Having the backing of such a prestigious and governmental body towards an event such as the ACE is not only a sign of approval and growth but also a nudge to continue in its effort to ensure that enterprising Nigerian (African) MSMEs have access to a wider internal and international markets and investors seeking joint-venture partners.

Bellafricana (organizers of ACE Awards) is grateful for this continued support and backing, as this has certainly made it a force to be reckoned with. It has helped in giving more credibility and in propelling it to where it is today.

Event Details:
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
Call: (+234) 808 636 3970

Email: [email protected]; [email protected]

Register: https://aceawardsafrica.com/

For more information, kindly visit the website: www.aceawardsafrica.com or follow on Instagram: @bell_africana @ace_awards

Congratulations to the top 3 nominees

Congratulations to the top 3 nominees

Just last week, the top 5 nominees for 15 categories for the ACE Awards 2021 was released and since then, the voting have been trooping in – as expected. The reuslts are in! Congratulations to the top 3 nominees! Just one more hurdle to cross to become the winner.

The Complete List of Nominees for ACE Awards 2021 are:

1) Best Indigenous Textile Designer

  • Afrikstabel
  • Akwete Fabrics by Beeju
  • Lowo Africa

2) Best Beauty Brand

  • ORIKI Lagos
  • Modara Naturals
  • Jaga Beauty

3) Best Fashion Brand (Clothing/Shoes)

  • K.Aspen
  • 87 Origins
  • Ako Africa

4) Start-Up of the Year

  • Just Journal
  • Anesi Lifestyle
  • Hafsat Signatures

5) Best Accessories Brand (Jewelry, Bag)

  • AABOUX
  • Becawax
  • Ola House of Accessories

6) Best Eco-friendly Product

  • Oke Partners
  • Trash2wealth Initiative
  • WHY WASTE IT

7) Best Innovative Product of the Year

  • Marienne Clay World
  • 1851 Agidingbi
  • My Sibi

8) Best Pioneer Craftsman/woman of the Year (Over 10 years)

  • Sahara Sunrise
  • RAULEROYAL
  • Kijipa Couture

9) Best Food Produce Innovation

  • Lim Lim Dried Fruits
  • Jam Coconut Foods
  • Klay Foods

10) Best Creative Child Entrepreneur

  • Amarachi Uyanne
  • Praise Emmanuel Adebayo
  • Zees Shea Hub

11) Best Creative Social Enterprise of the Year

  • The Creative Hub
  • Chanja Datti
  • Solar Sister Nigeria

12) Best Creative Children’s Brand

  • 9ijakids
  • Wealah Kids
  • PreshLight Creations

13) Best Arts and Crafts Person

  • ARTINI
  • Vudoh
  • Hooked by Lade

14) Best Home & Lifestyle Brand

  • Doormats Nigeria
  • Ekondo
  • Yasmin Crafts

15) Best African Brand

  • Kua Designs Ghana
  • Florinyah Tanzania
  • Tekura Designs Ghana

All Top 3 nominees are expected to turn in their pitch videos on or before Thursday, the 14th of October to qualify for the next stage, which would entail being judged by a panel of judges.

THE TOP 3 NOMINEES’ BUSINESSES WILL BE JUDGED BASED ON:
  • Impact: Is your business demonstrating some impact already in the economy?
  • Job Creation: Has the business created some jobs and has the potential to create more high-quality jobs?
  • Quality of Work: Does the business show great quality and competence to compete globally?
  • Customer Satisfaction: Is the company socially present and accepted by consumers?
  • Scalability: Does the company already earn revenues and does it have the potential to scale.
  • Pitch: 1 minute Pitch presentation.

Congratulations once again!

Visit aceawardsafrica.com/vote and vote for your favourite brands.

#baace #aceawards #aceawards2021 #aceawardsafrica

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!

 

Bukky Asehinde, helping Entrepreneurs through her platform: Bellafricana

Bukky-Asehinde

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.

Bellafricana Flier

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

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

Love Eating And Drinking in Lagos? Try These Restaurants In Lagos Mainland

We’ve tried and tested some very good restaurants in Lagos mainland for the very best cuts of steak, snacks, continental and local dishes. Here are the results of some fine yummy eateries in the heart of Lagos.

Labule Restaurant

Labule-Restaurant-Ogudu Lagos

Labule means ‘in the village’ in Yoruba language. Have you ever been so tired to cook your native food? Labule Restaurant is the place to visit because they serve basically local dishes. The whole concept of this restaurant is for you to eat that Iya Basira food but in a traditional contemporary setting. On the menu you will see recipes ranging from Amala and Ewedu, Ewa Agoyin, Pap and Akara, Beans and Bread, Kunu and Zobo drink just to mention a few. It is the best place to get posh local food. They offer delivery services to neighboring areas such as Ogudu, Ojota, Anthony, Ilupeju, Maryland and Ikeja.

They are open every day from 9AM – 9PM

Labule Restaurant is located at 42a Ogudu Road, Ogudu GRA, Lagos.

Customers can call in for orders on 0809 142 4457. Their food is ON POINT! I have eaten there times without number.

Yellow Chilli Restaurant and Bar

Yellow Chilli Restaurant and Bar, Lagos

Yellow Chilli is a trendy restaurant in the heart of Ikeja. The restaurant offers Nigerian delicious and ethnic with an extensive range of gourmet meals and local spicy foods such as pepper soup, spicy stewed snails, seafood Okra and Prawn made with fresh ingredients with lots of herbs. Their Jollof Fiesta is a delectable dish to die for. Ordering is easy, as guests are given menus to order and there are waiters waiting to get your orders.

Visit: Yellow Chilli

Opens 12:00 pm to midnight  (Everyday).

Location: 35, Joel Ogunaike Street, Ikeja, Lagos.

Browns Cafe & Restaurant

Browns-Cafe-Restaurant-Lagos

If you are looking for a reason why food scene in Lagos Mainland is one of the most exciting things in Lagos, you should visit Brown’s Café and Restaurant. The restaurant is popularly known as “Browns” and it is noted for its breakfast menu called ‘Naija Breakfast’ and Browns Platter. Browns foods and drinks are freshly prepared with flavourful ingredients. They serve a variety of Nigerian dishes and gourmet delight.

Visit: Browns Cafe and Restaurant

Opens 9.00am to 10.00pm everyday

Location: 15 Oduduwa Crescent, Ikeja GRA.

Rhapsody’s

Rhapsodys-Ikeja-City-Mall

Dinning at Rhapsody’s is an event because of its beautiful setting, classic interior, comfortable atmosphere and thoughtfully prepared foods. The restaurant offers a la carte selections and you can unleash your appetite with a multi-course feast with salads and appetizers. You should try their signature dish – Chicken Espetada, grilled deboned chicken thighs skewered with spicy jalapenos and chilli sauce topped with garlic butter. This restaurant will sate your appetite with their delicious meals.

Visit: Rhapsody’s

Location: Address: Ikeja City Mall, 176/194 Obafemi Awolowo way, Alausa Ikeja, Lagos

Bheerhugz

Bheerhugz, Lagos

Have you seen a cafe that is always lively at all time of the day? Bheerhugz Cafe it is. This cafe is always active with lots of happy people. At Bheerhugz Cafe you will find variety of tasty meals such as chicken soup, pork grills, peppered snails and Nigerian delicacies. They also store exotic list of imported wines and cocktails.

Bheerhugz is located at upper floor of Ikeja City Mall, Alausa.

Rodizzio

rodizio restaurant and bar lagos

When you visit Rodizzio, you catch a glimpse of Nigerian food scene and how delicious they can be when you taste them. Rodizzio is known for their signature meals – Jambalaya rice, unlimited BBQ and platters. You can choose from a wide range of meals, including seafood and desserts. The buffet menu is simply the best of the bunch.

Visit: Rodizzio

Location: 29, Isaac John Street, G.R.A. Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria OR Call: +234 701 000 8000 , +234 703 030 1548  +234 703 004 4414

Domino’s Pizza

Domino’s Pizza

Domino Pizza serves delicious pizza in Ikeja. The restaurant offers a broad dine-in menu as well as take-away menu, you can easily order for pizza and have it delivered in your home. Their menu is one of the great dinning deals you can ever find around Lagos mainland, featuring a variety or Pizzas with flavourable sauce. You can also order for their Garlic Bread Sticks, Chicken wings and spicy Chicken Kickers. The restaurant is always bubbling because people can not do without their Domino’s pizza.

Domino’s Pizza is location at Joel Ogunnaike Street, G.R.A., Ikeja

Opens Sun-Wed: 9am-10pm; Thur: 10am-12midnight; Fri & Sat: 9am-12midnight

 La Mango

La-Mango_restaurant_ikeja5

La Mango takes pleasure in its various local and continental menu. On the menu you will see food from around the world from our indigenous delicacies, American burgers to Malaysian Fried Rice. Eat lunch or dinner at La Mango and you will always remember the experience . You get to enjoy delicious meal in a great serenity.

La Mango Restaurant and Bar is perfectly situated at 3a Adekunle Fajuyi Way, off (and very near to) Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way,  GRA,  Ikeja.

It has adequate parking both inside the premises and outside.

You can mail them at  [email protected] or [email protected] or Call 0808 264 6670

Pool Terrace

Pool Terrace

The beauty of this restaurant can make you get filled. Pool Terrace Restaurant and Bar gives you this blend of music, food and fun. They deliver excellent food in a sparkling environment. All you need do to enjoy a yummy delicacies, is to sit and order from the menu a la carte. I bet you will surely have a nice time with their live music.

Pool Terrace  is located at Sheraton Lagos Hotel, 30 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Airport Rd · Ikeja, Lagos  ·

Telephone : (+234) (1) 28100100
Do you agree with the choices? Lets hear your experience. Tell us about those cool restaurants in Lagos, email [email protected]
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