Friday, January 25, 2008
Northerners Come Up Strong at The Future Awards 2008
I have always had a big fascination for Northern Nigeria, espeically the Hausa people. Their cultures and people always seemed so distinct from the rest of Nigeria-think parallel cultures like Ethiopia, Somali, Eritrea and some aspect of Indian culture. In any event, when I hear news about the North, even within Nigeria, it is always about the North [predominantly Muslims] battling with the South [predominantly Christians]. So, I am particularly pleased about the positive showings by Northerners in the recently completed "The Future.. Awards 2008;" as they swept awards in coveted categories.
The Northern winners of this year's award are:
Abdulkareem Baba Aminu, Editor with the Daily Trust, Journalist of the Year
Ali Nuhu, Actor of the Year and
Mak Kusare of BBC, Screen Producer of the Year.
These wins, while not surprising to discerning observers, immediately dismisses the remainder of the myth that there is paucity of achieving young minds from any part of the Nigerian nation, as well as being testimony to the rigo[r] and research that the organisers and judges of the Awards attach to the process," said the RedStrat Team, producers of the event. A few popular Nigerian personalities also won awards: Dbanj won the Musician of the Year and Chimamanda Adichie, author of Half of a Yellow Sun, won the coveted Young Person of the Year Award. Enjoy the pics below courtesy of Redstrat and http://www.purefoto.com/.
Two of the trio that hosted the event: TV Personality Kemi Adetiba and Omowunmi Akinnifesi Rapper/Lawyer to be & Fashion Designer Sasha during her performance
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
What is the Best African Country to Do Fashion Business?
I know too that Kenya/Uganda have a good scene. I have friends from each of those countries and [they]say for me to pick the one I have 'real love' for. The problem is, I have love for all. I thought to base my decision on trends and potential growth one industry has over another. So with that, do you happen to have any thoughts or direction you could lead me in? Thanks so much!"~Tyese, Northern California.
A. Hi Tyese! I am delighted you love our site. Thank you for being a loyal reader! I think your friends are right when they say "pick the one you have 'real love' for." I also think from a business angle, you are wise to base your decisions on trends and potential growth. All of the countries you mention are indeed good and viable options when it comes to fashion. Also, Senegal is not a bad idea especially since you speak French and Ghana is definitely a wonderful option. My advice would be to pick an African country you love, research thoroughly and understand the trends and potential growth; and once you are successful in establishing your business in that country, then you can expand into other African countries. Remember to look before you leap by researching carefully the market you are trying to get into. I would also look to see if there are any African-American groups that have successfully done business in Africa, especially in the fashion realm. One resource is Dr. Bill Releford's "Made in Africa" company. I would contact them.
For your African friends, I would ask to visit their countries with them when next they visit. This way, they get to be your tour guide and break you into the customs and traditions to help break the cultural barriers you are concerned about. Once in these African countries, look for the presence or lack of infrastructure, governmental support of businesses, especially foreign investments and be sure to investigate import/export issues and complications associated with it so you can make an informed decision. I hope the above helps. Good luck!
Monday, January 21, 2008
What Does MLK Day Mean to You?
"I Have a Dream" Speech
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Kenya Artists Unite in the Hit Single "Wakenya Pamoja"
"Wakenya Pomoja "
"Hallelujah" by Kevin L.