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Who is Bolanle Austen-Peters?

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Bolanle Austen-Peters, a trailblazing Nigerian Filmmaker, entrepreneur, Lawyer and artistic director who has revolutionized the country’s theater scene. As the founder of BAP Productions and Terra Kulture arts center in Lagos, she has been instrumental in promoting Nigerian culture and talent.

A picture of Bolanle Austen-Peters in an all white attire

Early life:

Bolanle Austen-Peters was born 4th February in 1969 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. She comes from a distinguished family, being the daughter of Emmanuel Afe Babalola, a renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and Mrs. Bisi Babalola, a retired Major.

Austen-Peters pursued higher education at the University of Lagos, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Law. She furthered her studies at the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science, obtaining a Master’s degree.

Before venturing into the arts, Austen-Peters had a successful career in law. In the 1990s, she worked as a lawyer at Afe Babalola and Co Barristers and Solicitors, and later with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in Switzerland. This diverse background has likely influenced her unique approach to the creative industries.

Career:

In 2003, Bolanle Austen-Peters founded Terra Kulture, a pioneering educational and cultural hub dedicated to promoting Nigerian languages, arts, and culture. Since its inception, Terra Kulture has evolved into a vibrant complex, featuring: A restraunt, art gallery, bookstore, language school, a theatre, a film production studio and an academy for the study of art. It is Located on Tiamiyu Savage Street in Lagos, Terra Kulture has become a premier destination for cultural expression and exchange, celebrating over two decades of promoting Nigerian arts and culture since its founding in 2003.

In 2013, she founded her own production -Bolanle Austen-Peters Production (BAP production).

In addition to her theater work, Austen-Peters has ventured into film directing, producing critically acclaimed movies for Netflix. Her films, such as “Man of God” and “Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti,” have garnered significant attention and awards, including Best Overall Feature Film and Best Screenplay.

Bolanle Austen-Peters’ contributions to the arts have earned her numerous accolades, including recognition from CNN, Forbes Afrique, and several awards for her outstanding work. Her impact extends beyond Nigeria, inspiring aspiring musicians and artists across the continent.

Through her work, Bolanle Austen-Peters continues to break boundaries, showcasing Nigerian talent and stories to a global audience. Her dedication to the arts has cemented her position as a leading figure in Nigeria’s cultural landscape.

Bolanle Austen-Peters in a native purple attire

Personal life:

Bolanle Austen-Peters is happily married to Adegboyega Austen-Peters, a distinguished Nigerian executive and board member. Together, they have built a loving family with two children, a son, and a daughter. The family resides in Lagos, Nigeria, where they are actively involved in their respective pursuits and philanthropic endeavours.

Philanthropy:

Bolanle Austen-Peters’ commitment to empowering the next generation of creative talent in Nigeria is evident through her founding of Terra Academy For The Arts (TAFTA). In partnership with the MasterCard Foundation, TAFTA aims to provide free education to 65,000 young adults over five years, equipping them with skills in sound, stage and set design, animation, and scriptwriting.

Bolanle Austen-Peters’ dedication to the creative industries extends beyond education. She has worked closely with the Nigerian Ministry of Culture to develop job opportunities and artistic projects, fostering growth and innovation in the sector.

Her contributions have been recognized through several awards, including the Award in Appreciation of Contribution to the Development of National Museum, Onikan, Lagos in 2015. In 2017, she collaborated with the Lagos State Government to celebrate the city’s 50th anniversary, commissioning over 9 sculptures that showcase Lagos’ rich history, culture, and people.

Through her initiatives, Austen-Peters is not only nurturing creative talent but also promoting Nigeria’s cultural heritage and contributing to the country’s economic development.

List of movies she has directed and Produced:

  1. 93 days (2015)
  2. The musical Wakaa (2016)
  3. The Kalakuta queens (2017)
  4. The Bling Lagosians (2019)
  5. Collision Course (2020)
  6. Man of God (2022)
  7. Fumilayo Ransome Kuti (2024)
  8. House of Ga’a (2024)
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Celebrity Bios

Meet Tacha The Bold and Unapologetic Queen : Port Har-court’s first daughter

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Entrepreneur, philanthropist, and media personality Anita Natacha Akide is better known by her stage name Symply Tacha. She’s been a housemate on Big Brother Naija (season 4) and The Challenge: Spies, Lies & Allies on MTV . In addition to numerous other honors, she has won awards such as Net Honour’s Most Popular Person, Female Personality of the Year, and Celebrity Entrepreneur of the Year.

 

Early life and education

Born in Rivers State on December 23, 1995. Tacha hails from Nigeria. From the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni in Rivers State, Nigeria, she graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Language.

 

Career

Tacha was well-known on Instagram prior to participating in the reality show. She inked Davido’s tattoo on her chest, a move that caught the attention of many, including Davido.

She drew a large crowd, and her fan base grew exponentially.

She thus rose to prominence as a social media influencer and performed multiple brand campaigns.

Tacha participated in the fourth season of Big Brother Naija and had an appearance in MTV’s The Challenge: Spies, Lies & Allies.

She represents the fitness brand GetFit, the worldwide alcoholic beverage firm Ciroc, the eyewear company House of Lunettes, and the RealTech company OxfordBuildBay. Additionally, she unveiled her Tacha Fierce line of exclusive Ciroc drinks.

 

 

Television

2019 Big Brother Naija (Season 4) Contestant (6th place)

2021 MTV The Challenge 37th season, appeared in 3 episodes

Films

2022 Tiger’s Tail played TuTu

Philanthropy

Natacha Akide Foundation (NAF)

In 2020, Tacha established the Natacha Akide Foundation (NAF) with the goal of helping the most fortunate. She launched the Pad For Every Girl (PEG) campaign to teach female hygiene to all girls.

Action Against Hunger

She started this program to combat the issue of starvation among the displaced families from the pandemic.

PVC Awareness Campaign

She went to River State in 2022 In order to encourage her people to obtain Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) in advance of the 2023 election.

 

Awards

Won Net Honours Most Popular Person 2021

Won TrendUpp Africa Force of Twitter  2021

Won Scream Awards Brand Influencer of the Year 2020

Won Scream Awards Fashion Brand of the Year 2020

Won Scream Awards Social Media Influencer of the Year 2020

Won Africa Choice Awards Brand Influencer of the Year 2020

Won Africa Choice Awards Female Personality of the Year 2020

Won LaMode Celebrity of the Year 2020

Won Av Social Media Influencer of the Year 2020

Won Av Brand of the Year-Titans Collection 2020

Won Auracool Most Popular Female Naija Celeb 2020

Won Net Honours Most Popular BBNaija Star 2020

Won STARZZ Emerging Celebrity of the Year 2019

 

Tacha has definitely made her mark as a strong-willed woman after departing the BBNaija competition. Tacha continues to be a well-known personality in the Nigerian entertainment industry despite these contentious incidents, she continues making waves with her unapologetically positive outlook on life.

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Celebrity Bios

5 CEO BUSINESS WOMEN TO FOLLOW THIS WEEK IN NIGERIA

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In a world where women are redefining success, Nigerian women stand out for their entrepreneurial spirit, balancing personal lives, careers, and families while inspiring others.

This article spotlights five incredible Nigerian CEOs who are making a lasting impact in business and fashion, through their determination and creativity.

 

1. Delonyii

Delonyii, the CEO of Delonyii Fashion Brand, has revolutionized the lingerie industry by creating inclusive designs that embrace body positivity. Starting her business with minimal capital and overcoming societal resistance, she built a brand that uses real women, not models, in campaigns.

Delonyii’s commitment to women’s mental health and inclusivity has earned her a dedicated following. Her rise from humble beginnings continues to inspire many in Nigeria and beyond.

 

2. Dabota Lawson

Dabota Lawson, a mother and former beauty queen, is the founder of Dabota Cosmetics, a beauty brand specifically created for dark-skinned women. Growing up with self-esteem challenges, Dabota channeled her experiences into creating a brand that celebrates dark skin.

In her mid-thirties, she has achieved tremendous success, balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship. Her luxury yet affordable products have garnered widespread recognition across Africa, making her a trailblazer in the beauty industry.

 

3. Nina Glory (Nina Ivy)

Nina Ivy, founder of Nina Empire, turned her fame from Big Brother Naija into a thriving beauty and hair brand. Armed with a degree in Political Science from Imo State University, Nina leveraged her influence to build a business offering premium beauty products at affordable prices.

Now in her late twenties, Nina balances her career with motherhood, openly sharing her personal and professional struggles with her audience. This transparency has made her a beloved figure in the entrepreneurial world.

 

4. Mabel Makun

Mabel Makun, CEO of Midas Interiors, is a leading name in Nigeria’s luxury interior design industry. With a degree in Business Administration, Mabel followed her passion for interior design, creating a brand that serves high-profile clients across the country.

In her late thirties and a mother of two, Mabel is admired for her attention to detail, her creativity, and her independence, despite being married to a famous comedian, AY Makun. Her brand remains at the forefront of Nigerian interior design.

 

5. Meldin Boss

Meldin Boss, a mother of one, turned her passion for repurposing thrift clothes into a successful fashion brand. Known for her bold, vibrant designs, Meldin’s brand stands out for encouraging women to embrace their individuality through fashion

Her focus on mental health advocacy and women empowerment has made her a beloved figure in the Nigerian fashion scene. In her early thirties, she continues to challenge societal norms with her daring and unapologetic approach to fashion.

 

These five women are not just successful entrepreneurs; they are also mothers who have balanced the demands of business and family life while building thriving careers. Through their individuality, perseverance, and passion, they continue to inspire the next generation of Nigerian entrepreneurs and redefine success for women everywhere.

#femaleentrepreneurs #femaleCEOs #nigerianbusinesswomen­

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Celebrity Bios

Toke Makinwa: Meet One of the Top Five African Female Show Hosts

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Toke Makinwa Is a Nigerian radio personality, television host, vlogger, lifestyle entrepreneur, actress and author. Born on November 3rd, 1984, in Lagos State. She is well-known for hosting Rhythm 93.7Fm’s The Late Morning Show, and for her YouTube vlog series Toke Moments. Toke published her book On Becoming in November 2016. Presently she is one of the top five African Female show hosts.

Early Life and Education: 

Toke was born in Lagos, to Nigerian parents, on November  3rd, 1984. She attended Federal Government Girls College in Oyo State, and later attended University of Lagos, where she earned a bachelor degree in English and Literature.

Career :

Toke Makinwa made her big media debut as a co-host of The Morning Drive on Rhythm 93.7 FM in 2010. She hosted the 2012 edition of the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) beauty pageant, which was aired live throughout Nigeria.

She co-hosted Flytime TV’s 3 Live Chicks with Oreka Godis and Tosyn Bucknor. Before being shown on terrestrial television in late 2012, the show had its premiere as a web series. Toke began her YouTube vlog series, “Toke Moments”, in 2012. She was the 2013 Nigeria Broadcasters Award winner for Most Outstanding Female Presenter.

She received a nomination for the Nigeria Entertainment Awards’ “Radio OAP of the Year.” She was appointed an ambassador by the United Africa Company of Nigeria in that same year. Toke was named the host of Hip Hop World Magazine’s interview and discussion series Trending in January 2014. She also got a gig co-hosting Moments, the main program on EbonyLife TV. Several important occasions, such as the 2014 Headies Awards and the Future and City People Awards in 2013, have been hosted by Toke. The pairing of Nollywood actress Nancy Isime and Toke Makinwa to host the third season of The Voice Nigeria was formally revealed in March 2021. Toke Makinwa was revealed as the host of Gulder Ultimate Search Season on October 16, 2021.

Her new TV program “Talk With Toke Makinwa” premiered on MultiChoice in November 2021. In November 2016, she published her memoir “On Becoming”. The book discusses her personal hardships as well as Maje Ayida, her now-ex-husband,’s betrayal.To promote the book, Makinwa embarked on a book tour. The trip took place in sections of East Africa, South Africa, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Toke Makinwa Luxury, Makinwa’s own brand, launched a Handbag collection in 2017. In 2018, she also introduced the skincare line Glow by TM. Under the brand Toke Makinwa Beauty, Toke Makinwa launched her range of Unisex Perfumes in May 2024.

Personal Life:

Toke Makinwa lost both her parents in a gas explosion when she was 8 years old. And married Maje Ayida, whom she had been connected with for eight years prior to their wedding, on January 15, 2014. On October 5, 2017, the marriage was dissolved by the Lagos High Court on the grounds that Ayida committed adultery. She disclosed that she lost her elder sister in March 2022 at the Big Brother season 6, where she served as a host.

Toke Makinwa Notable Deals and Endorsement : 

– 2013 Ambassador of the United Africa Company of Nigeria

– 2013 Signed a multi-million Naira contract with Nestle to become the new face of Maggi

– 2013 One of Face of Lipton tea

– 2016 Brand Ambassador and Face of  Mecran Cosmetics

– 2016 Brand Ambassador for Payporte and Ciroc

– 2019 Brand Ambassador and Endorsement Deal with Oppo mobile

– 2021 Endorsement with Showmax as the Host for BBN season 6

Films :
  • Glamour Girls (2022) – Louise
  • Blood Sisters (2022) – Abasiama
  • Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2020) – Tina
  • Love Is War (2019) – Yinka the Reporter
  • Sugar Rush (2019) – Gina
  • Makate Must Sell (2019) – Ricky
  • Therapy (comedy web series)
Awards and Achievements :

– Won Outstanding Female Presenter of the Year 2013 Nigeria Broadcasters Awards

– Style Influencer of the Year 2017 Glitz Awards

– Most Influential Young Nigerian in Media 2017 Avance Awards

– 100 Most Influential Young Africas 2018 African Youths Award

– Innovative Beauty Practitioner of the Year 2020 ELOY Award

– Most Popular Media Personality (Female) 2020 Net Honors

– Most Searched Media Personality 2020 Net Honors

– Most Popular Media Personality (Female) 2021 Net Honors

Toke Makinwa’s breakthrough to fame is a definition that hard work, dedication, determination, passion and perseverance rewards.

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