He knew he had found the one and wanted a proposal that truly reflected the depth of his love. So, he planned a magical proposal in Nigeria, and what Kankou thought was just a shopping trip turned out to be the sweetest surprise! From the dreamy decor to the bright smiles and their undeniable chemistry, every moment of this proposal was nothing short of magical. Also, keep scrolling to see how Mamy pulled off his surprise.

Enjoy their proposal photos below:

Here’s how Mamy popped the question:

I wanted my proposal to Kankou, to be simple yet heartfelt. We came from Guinea to Nigeria for this unforgettable moment, which I knew would leave her speechless. Despite the language barrier—I speak little English, and Kankou only speaks French—I reached out to a planner in Nigeria, and we seamlessly connected through the universal language of love.

Kankou arrived in Nigeria thinking it was just a getaway and a shopping trip, but I had a beautiful surprise in store. From a dreamy, intimate setup to curating French songs that embodied our love, every detail was designed to reflect our story. It was a magical evening where love crossed borders, overcame barriers, and created lifelong memories.

Credits

Planner and stylist: @theproposalbellofficial
Videography: @rmstudio__
Photography: @tosinjoshweddings

For more weddings, love stories, pre-weddings, and wedding planning tips & inspo,

visit www.bellanaijawedbellanaijaweddings.com

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Photo Credit: John Dramani Mahama/Instagram

On Tuesday, 7th January, John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as Ghana’s president at Black Star Square in Accra.

At the swearing-in-ceremony, he looked ready to take the oath of office in a white agbada with kente fabric detailing on the hemlines, paired with a matching kente cap. The outfit combined tradition and simplicity, reflecting the significance of the occasion. A key moment during the ceremony was when he lifted the State Sword, symbolising his authority as Commander-in-Chief.

Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, who made history as Ghana’s first female vice president rocked a print A-line skirt paired with a pink jacket featuring sequinned details on the sleeves, an understated yet elegant look for the occasion.

The ceremony which was well attended by several African leaders including Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a celebration of Ghanaian culture and tradition, with both leaders embodying the dignity of the event through their attire.

See photos from the swearing-in ceremony below

 

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In a moment of misguided coolness at eleven(11), I wished for acne, not realising the power my words held. Acne used to be a sign of body development but what began as a flippant desire soon spiralled into a lifelong battle with acne and eventually, Body Dysmorphia. It was not until much later that I understood the truth in Proverbs 18:21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

Our words are compelling and capable of both harm and healing. Just like God’s creative power in the Bible, this was something I did not understand back then. I would say one of the reasons most people are suffering from any form of Body Image Issue is the negative words they say based on their circumstances. This brings about the symptoms and effects of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), which ultimately eats into our confidence and self-esteem.

Fear of Rejection 

Constantly thinking that people would make fun of me or talk about the rash-like pimples on my face consumed my thoughts. The irony about this is that, at university, there was a friend who seemed confident and comfortable in her skin despite having more severe acne. This made me wonder what she was doing differently, as I constantly battled self-hatred and a longing for clear skin. But then I understood that it required much deeper work on my inside than dealing with it on the outside with skin care products. Before I knew what was happening, I realised I was already avoiding people socially, interacting less with people and making fewer friends.

Spending lots of money on skincare products

One other thing I know I did a lot then was spend a lot of money constantly switching skincare products, chasing after whatever seemed to be working for someone else. But nothing ever provided lasting results. It would seem effective for a short time, then, after a while, I’d be back to square one. This cycle of buying products, picking at my skin and hoping for a miracle overwhelmed me. I was unaware of the damage it was doing to my confidence and self-esteem. In focusing solely on my acne, I neglected to appreciate the other aspects of my body I liked. All of this never really brought me joy or the result I desired.

Anxiety and constant worrying

I experienced anxiety and constant worry almost every time I had to go to class or an event in my university days. The inconsistency of the acne on my face occupied my mind so significantly that it sometimes dictated my mood. I declined to go out because I was thinking about people seeing my face without makeup. I hated makeup. At some point I began to avoid the mirror, but also continued to check my appearance from afar obsessively, hoping to love my face again. Looking back now, it was a lot of work.

I spent a lot of time grooming myself and practising ways to hide my face. I selected hairstyles to shield my face. Sometimes it would be extremely hot, but I’d still wear the fringe hairstyle like that. I became strategic and calculative in everything I wore. Ironically though, after a while, I developed a compulsive habit of checking the mirror in the morning for any signs of improvement in my acne.

Constantly Comparing Self with others

Growing up, I loved fashion and clothes, and all those fashion magazines were my way of feeding my love for them. As a result, I was constantly fixated on magazines and idealised images of celebrities, yearning for a flawless face like theirs. I believed that achieving this goal was essential for finding peace, loving my face and acceptance.

I also remember constantly comparing myself to a good friend in school with clear, radiant skin. I naively believed that clearing the acne would grant me the same level of beauty and popularity she possessed. I was always asking people what they felt about my face. Most of them always said they could see the acne, but it was not as bad as I always painted it to be. I never really believed compliments about me being beautiful, because I thought I had to look a certain way and be perfect. This fueled my lack of self-love.

One day, I will talk about the ultimate solution of my journey.

***

Feature Image by Monstera Production for Pexels.

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When fake starts to feel real, what do you do? How do you navigate the blurred lines? Timini Egbuson might just have the answers in his upcoming film “Reel Love,” set to hit cinemas this Valentine’s Day, February 14th.

Directed by Kayode Kasum and written by Ife Olujuyigbe, “Reel Love” promises a star-studded cast, including Timini, Shaffy Bello, Muyiwa Ademola, Funke Akindele, Bimbo Ademoye, Jay On Air, Hermes Iyele, Dakore Egbuson–Akande, Atlanta Bridget Johnson, Efa Iwara, Lilian Afegbai, and introducing TJ Omusuku.

Sharing his excitement about the film, which also marks his debut as a co-executive producer, Timini said:

“Excited to finally share my cinema baby with you all. Reel Love, directed by my brother and mastermind @kayodekasum, and starring some of my favourite people in the industry, is packed with love, drama, and plenty of twists.”

Watch the trailer below

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Attention, King of Boys Army! The General herself, Kemi Adetiba, has officially announced that “King of Boys 3” is coming. This will be the third instalment of the popular limited series, coming four years after the second chapter, “King of Boys: The Return of the King,” premiered on Netflix.

Today, on her 45th birthday, the award-winning filmmaker shared an exciting teaser—a video showing an incoming call from none other than the film’s lead star, Sola Sobowale. In the teaser, Sola’s powerful voice declares: “I, Sola Sobowale, believe in you. I trust you. Let’s go and show them, big time!”

Back in April 2023, Kemi Adetiba revealed she had three films in the works: “King of Boys 3,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and “Welcome to the Fourth.” True to her word, she has been counting down to her birthday with this major announcement about the highly anticipated sequel, which is slated to premiere in December 2025.

Watch the thrilling announcement below

 

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Yesterday, Meta’s Founder and CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, made an announcement that could redefine how we use Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. If you’ve ever felt like social media policies were too restrictive or overly complicated, this might be good news for you.

Meta is rolling out major policy changes aimed at restoring free expression and making your experience on these platforms simpler and more open.

Wondering what this means for you? Let’s break it down.

Saying Goodbye to Fact-Checkers

Meta has decided to get rid of the third-party fact-checkers that have been tagging posts they believe are false or misleading. The idea was to help users avoid misinformation, but there were complaints of bias. To solve that, Meta is embracing the Community Notes model.

With Community Notes, users can leave notes on posts to provide more context or challenge claims instead of having external fact-checkers decide what’s true. It will require agreement between people with a range of perspectives to help prevent biased ratings. This is a community-driven approach that lets everyone get involved in ensuring the accuracy of the information we consume.

Simplifying Content Rules

You’ve probably noticed that the rules around what you can or can’t post have been pretty strict—especially on sensitive topics like gender and politics. Well, that’s changing.

Meta’s new approach is all about simplifying those rules and giving you more room to express your thoughts and experiences. The goal is to encourage open discussions without stifling people with overly complicated rules.

Fewer Mistakes in Content Moderation

There have been concerns about Meta’s automated system taking down posts that shouldn’t have been flagged or did not violate Meta’s rules, and according to Mark Zuckerberg, Meta has been “over-enforcing rules, limiting legitimate political debate and censoring too much trivial content and subjecting too many people to frustrating enforcement actions.”

Now, Meta is adjusting how they moderate content. Instead of using filters to flag everything that could possibly violate a policy, Meta will now focus on illegal and high-severity violations. For anything less serious, it’ll be up to users to report issues. This change aims to reduce mistakes, meaning fewer posts will get wrongly flagged.

Bringing Back Political and Civic Content

A while ago, Meta decided to cut back on recommending political content because people found it stressful. But now, many users are asking for more political and civic discussions. So, Meta is bringing back civic content to Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, while working to keep things respectful and friendly.

If you missed the opportunity to engage in political debates or discuss important social issues, or wish to see more political content in your feeds, now you can.

Moving Content Moderation Teams

Meta is also moving its content moderation teams from California to Texas. Why? This move is aimed at reducing concerns about any political bias that might come from having teams based in California. The idea is to help make the moderation process feel more neutral and trustworthy for users everywhere.

Fighting Against Global Censorship

Another important part of this shift is Meta’s stance on global censorship. Many governments around the world are pushing for more censorship of online content. Some countries are even passing laws that make it harder for platforms to allow free speech.

Meta is working with the U.S. government to push back against these laws and defend free speech around the world. The goal is to ensure that social media remains a place where people can share their thoughts without worrying about government censorship.

What Does This Mean for You?

It means more freedom to express yourself online.

• You’ll see less content being removed: Meta’s new approach means fewer harmless posts will be taken down.
• You’ll be able to help check the facts: With Community Notes, users can play a bigger role in making sure the information shared is accurate.
• You’ll see more political and civic discussions: Meta is bringing back these discussions, so you’ll be able to engage in these topics without restrictions.

Watch the video here.

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The egg roll is one of the best Nigerian snacks to have, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Think if it as making your bun, but with an egg inside. Simple, right?

To make this deliecious treat, Joyful Cook uses ingredients like all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, margarine, baking powder, eggs, water, unsweetened coconut flakes or flour and powdered milk.

She begins by boiing the eggs–just enough to cook them through and have them ready. Then, she prepares the dough.

These egg rolls are so filling, they can even double as a satisfying breakfast.

Watch how she makes them in the video below

The post Craving Tasty, Soft Egg Rolls? Joyful Cook’s Perfect Recipe Has You Covered appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: NFF/Instagram

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Nigeria’s senior men’s national football team. This decision comes after the NFF Executive Committee endorsed the recommendation from the NFF Technical and Development Sub-Committee, which met in Abuja on January 2, 2025.

Éric Sékou Chelle previously coached Mali’s senior men’s national team. His coaching journey also includes leading clubs such as GS Consolat, FC Martigues, Boulogne, and MC Oran. Under his leadership, Mali came very close to reaching the semi-finals at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, losing to the eventual champions, Cote d’Ivoire, in an intense extra-time battle.

The 47-year-old and former professional footballer has had a notable career with clubs like Martigues, Valenciennes, and Lens in France.

Éric’s appointment is with immediate effect, and he has the responsibility of guiding the Super Eagles to earn a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals, with the next round of matches taking place in March.

See more below

NFF appoints Éric Chelle as Head Coach of the Super Eagles pic.twitter.com/f3riZUo1f9

— The NFF (@thenff) January 7, 2025

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The Lagos activation from December 20-21 marks the culmination of a remarkable journey that has seen the Peak Breakfast Café transform markets across Nigeria, from Agbeni Market in Ibadan to Singer Market in Kano, serving over 10,000 consumers and promoting the importance of nutritious breakfast.

Moninnuola Kassim, Senior Brand Manager, Peak Milk, reflected on the campaign’s success stating that;

Our Peak Breakfast Café tour has been more than just an activation – it’s been a nationwide movement towards better nutrition, community engagement and culinary creativity.

In a closing statement, Omolara Banjoko, Marketing Manager, Peak Milk, noted that;

As we conclude our nationwide tour at Mushin Market, we celebrate not just the miles we have travelled, but the lives we have touched. From Ibadan to Lagos, we have demonstrated that Peak Milk is more than just a brand – we are a partner in Nigeria’s nutritional journey, committed to bringing joy, health and education to every breakfast table.

The Lagos event maintained the campaign’s signature elements: complimentary Peak Protein breakfasts, interactive Protein Checker tools, live cooking demonstrations by professional chefs and exciting cooking competitions that celebrate local culinary talent.

The concluding activation at Mushin Market underscores Peak Milk’s commitment to promoting healthy eating habits and bringing joy to consumers across Nigeria. This nationwide Breakfast Café campaign fulfilled the brand’s mission to encourage the consumption of nutritious breakfasts for a healthy and happy lifestyle.

Peak Milk is a renowned brand in the Nigerian dairy industry, committed to providing high-quality dairy products to consumers for over 70 years. With a focus on nutrition and taste, Peak Milk has consistently delivered excellence in the form of dairy goodness to Nigerian households.

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Around the world, the arrival of the New Year is celebrated with diverse traditions that embrace the spirit of new beginnings—whether through fireworks, countdowns, prayers, or resolutions. In Nigeria, it is infused with even deeper cultural significance. Families gather for watch-night services, offering prayers of gratitude and seeking divine guidance for the year ahead. The streets come alive with the joyful noise of music and celebrations that embody the hope and excitement of a fresh start.

Meanwhile, amid the celebrations, there are five important ideologies that you must leave behind as you enter 2025. This will allow you to begin the New Year unburdened and focused on what lies ahead.

Idolised success

What you’ve achieved in 2024 is just a stepping stone compared to the endless possibilities of 2025. Think of it like an athlete who has won medals—if they want to win more, they must let go of their past achievements. Today’s success can be the very thing that limits tomorrow’s growth. Don’t get stuck building monuments to your past; instead, keep looking ahead. If you’ve written a bestselling book, there’s always room for another one. In business, I focus on the next project and constantly ask myself, “What’s next?” I don’t dwell on milestones for too long; I treat them as brief stopping points on my journey forward.

Kodak, once the leader in the photography industry, is a classic example of a brand that struggled to evolve due to idolised success. The company built its empire on film and cameras, dominating the market for decades. In 1975, Kodak developed the first digital camera but refused to fully embrace digital technology, fearing it would hurt their lucrative film business. This reluctance stemmed from their deep belief in the continued dominance of film products. As digital photography grew in popularity, Kodak clung to its traditional business model, continuing to prioritise film. This delay in adapting to the digital age led to a slow decline, and by 2012, Kodak filed for bankruptcy. Kodak’s story informs us about the dangers of idolising past success and neglecting necessary innovation, which ultimately resulted in the loss of market leadership and a significant brand collapse.

Misery from the past

The pains and traumas of the past, whether from failed relationships, career disappointments, or personal challenges should not be carried into the New Year. Continuing to dwell on past misery prevents you from fully embracing the present and planning for the future. Take the time to heal, let go, and release emotional baggage so that you can continue 2025 with a sense of peace and clarity. Don’t live in 2025 with your operating system of 2024

Past pains and misery can hinder progress, especially for Nigerian entrepreneurs who face setbacks like financial losses or failed launches. This mental paralysis stops them from innovating and making bold decisions, limiting their potential to succeed in the New Year. Letting go of past trauma is crucial for growth.

Mindset of limitation

Limiting beliefs often manifest in thoughts like “I can’t do this” or “I’m not capable.” These self-imposed barriers hold you back from realising your true potential. To thrive fully in 2025, adopting a growth mindset is important. Believe that you can develop your skills, overcome obstacles, and achieve your goals with effort and determination. Remind yourself that challenges are opportunities for growth, not limitations.

A negative mindset can severely limit progress in career, business and personal life in the New Year. In a career, it can lead to self-sabotage, missed opportunities, and an inability to take on new challenges, as one may feel incapable or unqualified. In business, a negative outlook can prevent innovation, stifle creativity, and lead to poor decision-making, as the fear of failure overrides the willingness to experiment. On a personal level, negativity can cause stress, and strained relationships, and hinder personal growth, making it difficult to embrace change and reach goals. It holds people back from seeing the New Year’s possibilities and diminishes their potential for success and happiness.

Man-made habits

Now that we are in 2025, your habits will be a major determining factor in your success. Positive habits like effective time management, setting clear goals, and maintaining focus can significantly boost your productivity, helping you stay on course and achieve milestones in both your career and personal life. When you make these habits part of your routine, you create a foundation for sustained success.

However, bad habits like procrastination, poor decision-making or distractions can derail your progress in 2025. These habits rob you of precious time, causing you to miss out on opportunities and reducing your ability to perform at your best. The key to achieving success in 2025 is to recognise which habits need to be broken and replace them with ones that enhance your productivity and goal achievement.

Mediocre associations

The company you keep plays a significant role in shaping your mindset and energy. If you surround yourself with individuals who discourage your dreams or encourage negative behaviour, it’s time to reassess those relationships.

Being in the wrong association can have significant psychological impacts that affect an individual’s overall performance in the New Year. Negative associations, whether in personal relationships or business partnerships, can lead to feelings of insecurity, self-doubt, and low self-esteem. If toxic or unsupportive people surround you, they may inadvertently instil a defeatist mentality, diminish your self-worth, and hinder your ability to take positive actions toward your goals.

Psychologically, constant exposure to negativity or pessimism in your circle can increase stress and anxiety, leading to burnout and lack of motivation. This mental drain can cause indecision, self-sabotage and hesitation to seize opportunities in the New Year.

Let go of idealised success tied to the past and release the negativity from past failures. Focus on positive habits that enhance your productivity this year, while discarding ones that limit your potential. Reevaluate your relationships; surround yourself with people who support your aspirations and inspire your growth.

***

Feature Image Anna Nekrashevich for Pexels

The post Kehinde Ajose: Five Things You Shouldn’t Take Into 2025 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

As one Africa’s leading digital entertainment platform, Clout Africa is committed to discovering, promoting, and connecting creators, artists, and brands with a global audience.

With a mission to produce world-class content, foster vibrant social communities, and champion African creativity, Clout Africa is more than just a platform—it is a movement driving the evolution of African entertainment on the global stage.

This vision came to life at “A Day With The Champs” 2023, a premier celebration honoring the creators, industry leaders, sponsors, and partners who have been instrumental in Clout Africa’s success.

From the moment guests stepped onto the red carpet, the event exuded elegance and excitement. With its sophisticated ambiance and electrifying energy, the celebration perfectly captured Clout Africa’s core ethos: elevating African talent and delivering unparalleled experiences.

The day was filled with powerful moments, beginning with engaging panel discussions that delved into the future of African entertainment. Esteemed industry leaders and creative visionaries shared insights on groundbreaking topics, including the transformative power of content creation, the global rise of Afrobeat, and the role of podcasting in shaping the next generation of storytelling.

These conversations were not just enlightening—they solidified Clout Africa’s position as a hub for thought leadership and innovation.

As evening approached, the stage came alive with performances that were nothing short of magical. The Clout Africa Band set the tone with soulful melodies that captivated the audience. An eclectic lineup of artists, nurtured and supported by Clout Africa, showcased their unique sounds, creating a kaleidoscope of rhythm, energy, and emotion that left everyone spellbound.

More than a celebration, “A Day With The Champs” was a testament to Clout Africa’s unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving creative ecosystem. It was a moment to honor the collective achievements of the Clout Africa community and to strengthen connections that will fuel future collaborations.

This annual event underscored Clout Africa’s role as a home for African talent—a platform where creativity meets opportunity and dreams take flight.

This content has been published for free as part of BellaNaija.com‘s commitment to youth, education, healthcare and community development as part of our corporate social responsibility programme

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500 swag bags were said to be distributed during the event, each containing sanitary products notepads, stationery, and toothbrushes—essentials aimed at equipping the girls with tools to prioritise health, education, and self-care. The day began with insightful talks from notable speakers, including Oyindamola Oyinade, a dedicated advocate for the girl child empowerment. She encouraged the girls to embrace self-belief, good hygiene, and resilience as they pursue their dreams.

Adding to the impactful lineup, Feyisayo Onogberie conducted a live demonstration on proper sanitary pad usage, breaking down stigmas, and teaching the girls practical menstrual health management tips. This hands-on session promoted SDG 3—Good Health and Well-Being by fostering open discussions and providing expert-led knowledge.

The event also featured an engaging fireside chat with panellists, including Esther Williams (founder of the Esther Williams Foundation), Damola Ayoade, and Feyisayo Onogberie, who answered the girls’ pressing questions on menstrual hygiene and personal empowerment. The day was filled with meaningful conversations, encouragement, and the distribution of life-changing resources.

The following day, November 4th, 2024, the Foundation expanded its outreach to Oluwole Secondary School Ejigbo, Lagos State, where 500 swag bags were also distributed to students. These bags contained similar sanitary products and essential items, ensuring the foundation’s mission of empowering young girls reached even more communities.

The event began with an insightful session led by Esther Williams, the founder of the Esther Williams Foundation. She educated the girls on the importance of menstrual hygiene and addressed the need to break the stigmas surrounding it. Following her session, Odeyemi Wemimo conducted a practical demonstration on menstrual health and effective management, providing the girls with essential knowledge and skills.

Across both events, 1000 swag bags were said to have been distributed, to impact the lives of the girls who attended. The Esther Williams Foundation’s commitment to breaking barriers, fostering good hygiene practices, and inspiring confidence in the next generation of girls was evident at every step.

“Pad a Girl” wasn’t just a program; it is a movement for change, with hope and empowerment at its core. The Esther Williams Foundation continues to pave the way for a brighter future, ensuring that every girl has access to resources, education, and the belief that they can achieve greatness. Together, we’re not just addressing period poverty. we’re creating opportunities for young girls to thrive, dream, and succeed.

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Chidimma Adetshina, Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, and the first runner-up of Miss Universe 2024, is celebrating her 24th birthday today, and she’s marking it in the most authentic way.

For her birthday, Chidimma is reflecting on her journey and embracing everything that makes her unique. This birthday is more than a photoshoot, it’s about embracing her individuality, staying true to herself, and sharing her view of the world.

She shared:

As I celebrate another year of life, I am reminded of the importance of embracing my individuality and living my truth. My birthday shoot is more than just a photoshoot – it’s a reflection of my personality, style, and spirit. I want to use this opportunity to express myself authentically and showcase my unique perspective on the world. A fierce and powerful woman.

Here’s to another year of growth, learning, and self-discovery! I’m grateful for the love and support and I look forward to seeing what the future holds.

Watch the video below:

 

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This is the BNStyle Workwear Series – your weekly fix of workwear fashion. Check on real career women and men with real styles below. Consider this your guide to navigating chic, workwear style whenever, wherever.

For more workwear inspiration on Instagram, tap the Follow button @BellaNaijaStyle

 

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Visit www.bellanaijastyle.com to stay up to date with the latest in African fashion and lifestyle

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Almost two weeks after most of the world celebrated Christmas, taking down their trees and packing up decorations for the next festive season, one country—Ethiopia—was just marking its own Christmas celebration yesterday.

In Ethiopia, Christmas, or Genna as it’s locally called, starts on Christmas Eve with a breathtaking candlelight service. On Monday evening, 6 January 2025, tens of thousands of worshippers gathered at the Bole Medhan Alem Church in Addis Ababa, the largest cathedral in Ethiopia and the second largest in Africa. Similar candlelight ceremonies also took place in churches across the country, as faithful worshippers flocked to their nearest place of worship.

Dressed in white traditional attire—the women in flowing, ankle-length dresses adorned with embroidery or lace, and men clad in long shirts—the worshippers joined a moving procession around the church’s circumference, holding lit candles. The air was filled with the sounds of a choir and the melodies of traditional instruments, creating an enchanting atmosphere as they followed the priest. The priest, in turn, blessed worshippers as he made his way through the congregation.

This beautiful tradition, a longstanding one in the world’s oldest independent African nation, has become one of Ethiopia’s most cherished religious expressions, drawing tourists from around the world to witness the spectacular communal celebration. It is often regarded as one of the most spectacular communal celebrations anywhere in the world.

Photo Credit: Coptsg/X

Unlike the globally recognised 25 December, Ethiopians celebrate Christmas, or Genna/Ganna as it is locally called, on 7 January. This difference stems from their use of the Julian calendar, as practised by the Coptic Orthodox Church, instead of the Gregorian calendar adopted by much of the world. According to the Julian calendar, 7 January marks the day of Jesus Christ’s birth.

So, what does Christmas Day in Ethiopia look like?

For many, it starts with food! While Nigerians might serve smoky jollof rice with fried goat, chicken or turkey, Ethiopians serve Doro Wat as their quintessential Christmas dish. This rich, spicy stew made with chicken, vegetables, and whole boiled eggs is enjoyed with injera, a soft, sourdough flatbread that doubles as a utensil for scooping up the stew. For drinks, a special barley-based beverage is brewed, adding to the culinary festivities.

But the celebrations don’t end at the table. Ethiopians also engage in traditional games, such as Ye Genna Chewata, a hockey-like sport played with a wooden ball and curved sticks. History has it that the game originated from the joy of shepherds who, on hearing the news of Christ’s birth, began tossing objects into the air with their sticks.

Another beloved activity, though much more daring, is yeferas guks, a horseback sport where men throw ceremonial lances at each other in a test of skill and courage.

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Photo credit: officialasiwajubat/Instagram

On January 7, 2025, John Dramani Mahama was sworn in as Ghana’s president, marking his return to office after previously serving from 2012 to 2017. The inauguration ceremony in Accra was attended by prominent African leaders, including the Presidents of Kenya, Gambia, Namibia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Togo.

Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who also serves as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), was also present.

During the ceremony, John Dramani Mahama and Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered speeches emphasising unity, progress, and the importance of collaboration for Africa’s future.

Below are the key takeaways from their addresses:

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Speech

Photo credit: officialasiwajubat/Instagram

Continued Collaboration Between Nigeria and Ghana

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering support for Ghana, emphasising that the two nations share a friendship and will continue working together for mutual success.

He stated, “My dear brother, I am here to work with you. You know you can count on Nigeria’s support and goodwill whenever needed. We are your brothers and sisters. The bond is strong and cannot be broken.”

Acknowledging John Dramani Mahama’s Leadership and Vision

In his speech, Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised John Dramani Mahama for his patriotic vision and commitment to Ghana’s future.

“I know you as a man of patriotic vision and substance who loves his nation and people to the core. It is your belief that the Republic of Ghana has a mission and you intend for all Ghanaians to fulfil it. No one can ask more of a leader than that.”

Confidence in Mahama’s Leadership for Positive Change

Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed optimism about John Dramani Mahama’s leadership and its potential to bring positive change for Ghana.

“I am confident that the new government, under your leadership, will work with Nigeria to strengthen this powerful bond, leading to greater shared prosperity for our people. I have no doubt that your administration will bring about positive change and progress.”

President John Dramani Mahama’s Speech 

Photo credit: officialjdmahama/Instagram

Unity is the Foundation for Progress

John Dramani Mahama made a heartfelt appeal for national unity, urging Ghanaians to come together for the greater good.

“The time has come for us to heal the wounds of division. It is time to rebuild the trust that binds us together as one people. We are stronger together, and it is only through unity that we can overcome the challenges ahead.”

Reviving Ghana’s Economy is a Top Priority

Acknowledging the economic difficulties faced by the nation, John Dramani Mahama reassured citizens of his administration’s commitment to rebuilding the economy.

“Our economy has faced significant challenges, but I stand here today with a promise to every Ghanaian: we will build a resilient economy, one that works for all. We will implement policies that leave no one behind, creating an environment where businesses thrive and opportunities abound.”

Empowering the Youth Through Education and Jobs

The president placed a strong focus on the youth, recognising their importance in shaping Ghana’s future.

“Our young people are the backbone of this nation. Their energy, creativity, and passion inspire hope for a brighter tomorrow. My administration will prioritise investments in education and skills training, and we will create jobs that match the aspirations of our young population. We cannot afford to fail them.”

A Focus on Sustainability for Future Generations

The president also emphasised the importance of environmental sustainability, committing to policies that protect natural resources for generations to come.

“As stewards of this beautiful land, we have a duty to care for our natural resources. Our rivers, forests, and air are gifts that we must preserve for future generations. My administration will make sustainability a guiding principle in every decision we take because our future depends on it.”

Promoting Accountability Through Transparency

John Dramani Mahama highlighted the importance of accountability, promising a transparent government that prioritises the people.

“Accountability will be the hallmark of my administration. The resources of this nation belong to the people, and we will ensure that they are used for their benefit. Every cedi will be accounted for, and we will leave no room for corruption to thrive.”

The post Key Takeaways From John Dramani Mahama’s Presidential Inauguration & Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Speech appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Even though he didn’t realise it the first time they met, destiny had something special in store for them. This first encounter left Amarachi with a lasting impression of Ken’s kind heart, so when they crossed paths again a few months later, she was certain it was fate. That moment became the spark that led to their beautiful love journey. Now, they’re set to spend forever together and are blessing us with their stunning pre-wedding photos. You’ll surely love every frame as you scroll.

Enjoy their pre-wedding shoot and love story below:

How we met
By the bride, Amarachi:

Aside from knowing Ken as a senior in Unilag Law, I first met him on Friday, January 28, 2022, in front of the South Socials restaurant. I still vaguely remember his outfit from that day, and how attractive he was to me. But what struck me was his kindness and his immediate willingness to help me and my friends the moment he saw we were “stranded”. I followed him on Twitter the next day to say thank you, but he didn’t follow back and his DM was locked. After a week or so, I unfollowed. On May 12, 2022, I bumped into him at the Federal High Court. I remember contemplating hard whether I should say hi. I did eventually and I had to refer to the South incident for him to remember me.

July 8, 2022, officially marked the beginning of our friendship. My friend, Duro invited me to her brother’s party at Bature and Ken was coincidentally there. That day, I realised he was an amazing singer. He hijacked the live band at Bature and performed “Majesty” by Peruzzi. I could have sworn that it was the actual song playing but I saw him singing with the mic and I was amazed! We danced together that night and had a light conversation. I remember he saved my name on his phone as “Amarachi a BABE” that night, and he told me he wanted to see me again. After a couple of outings and hangouts in 2022, I had a very strong conviction that he was my person. I remember telling my friend Azuka, in 2022, that Ken was my husband. I don’t know what it was, but I knew I was in love with him and wanted to be with him. Years have passed, and now more than ever, I am so convinced that Nkem, as I fondly call him, is my person. In Nkem, I have found a confidant, a lover, and a best friend, and I cannot wait to do life forever with him.

How we met
By the groom, Ken:

It is often the case that we are unaware when life-changing events occur. This was the case that night walking into South and meeting Amarachi with her friends. We did not say anything to each other as I was occupied trying to ensure she and her friends were all okay. It would be a few months before we met again and this time, I made sure to speak to her, dance with her, and get her number. In the early period of becoming friends, she made a note of always asking ‘deep’ questions that often left me unsettled and worried as to why barely knowing me, she wanted to know me that deeply. I remember making a firm resolve never to let my guard down. But Amarachi is easy to love, for the first time I did not have to bother about being anything but myself and that was enough.

My guard soon dissolved, I found myself waking up early to pray with her before her Bar exams, pausing work to teach her corporate law, helping guide her for the job hunt, maybe this explains why she ended up joining the same law firm I worked in and we became colleagues. Amarachi is my biggest supporter; many do not know but my first ever viral singing video was Amarachi’s doing and she was also the one behind the camera. I made the decision to make this a forever thing earlier this year in May and flew in from Toronto a week before she was expecting me, surprised her with a proposal in front of our closest friends and family. I love the way Amma loves me, it gives me strength to go out there and be myself and conquer. I can not wait to be her husband.

Credits

Bride: @amarachieo_
Groom: @thingskendoes
Planner: @eventsgalleryltd
Ring: @peoplesjewellers
Photography and Videography: @demoladrew for @demoladrew.weddings
Hair: @inudidit.brides
Makeup: @matisbeauty_
Groom’s outfit: @iamgeorgenkem
Bride’s traditional dress: @tarus_haroun
Gele @wemimo_onigele

For more weddings, love stories, pre-weddings, and wedding planning tips & inspo,

visit www.bellanaijawedbellanaijaweddings.com

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To my dearest 40-year-old self,

It’s the brink of a new year, I am enveloped by a tumult of emotions—anticipation, apprehension and a hint of uncertainty. Yet, through it all, an enduring sense of hope emerges. This letter serves as a communication from your current self, a reminder of the aspirations we have cultivated and the person we are endeavouring to become.

I am reflecting on the burdens of our past, the haunting memories of trauma that almost shaped our identity. I encourage you to recall the bravery you discovered within to embark on your healing journey. It was no simple task. There were days filled with shadows, and times of hopelessness when you doubted your resilience. Yet, you carried on. You turned to therapy for support, found warmth in the presence of those who empathised, and gradually, with great effort, you started to reconstruct your sense of self. You came out stronger, more resilient and with a deeper connection to who you are.

Remember that vision you had about uplifting women entrepreneurs? You put your heart into building a fund that didn’t just offer financial help but also provided mentorship, guidance, and a community of support. It was amazing to see how your hard work paid off as so many women transformed into thriving business owners, their confidence skyrocketing and their dreams taking off.

Your entrepreneurial spirit took off like a rocket. What started as a personal journey into natural haircare turned into a booming business. You created innovative products that honoured the beauty of all hair types, offering nourishment and empowerment. Your brand became a beacon of self-love, individuality, and a challenge to the status quo. You built a community around your brand, creating a space where everyone felt they belonged and celebrated their unique beauty. You emerged as a leader and an inspiration, proving just how powerful it is to chase your dreams with relentless passion.

Amidst the triumphs and the grind, you never forget the importance of love. You opened your heart again, allowing yourself to experience the joy of companionship, the warmth of intimacy, and the comfort of a loving embrace. You learned to trust again, to cherish the beauty of vulnerability, and to find solace in the arms of someone who cherished your soul as deeply as you cherished theirs.

The woman you are becoming is a testament to your strength, resilience, and your unwavering spirit. You are a survivor, a creator, a leader and a lover. You are a beacon of hope, a component of evidence of the extraordinary power of the human spirit. Most importantly, you are not a fool at 40, like you feared.

As we continue this sojourn, never lose sight of your dreams. Embrace the challenges, learn from the setbacks and never stop believing in yourself. You are capable of achieving greatness beyond your wildest imagination. We are only just getting started. Wear this age with grace, and let your light shine.

With unwavering love and belief,

Your present self.

***

Feature Image by Gabby K for Pexels

The post Farida Yahya: A Letter To My 40-Year-Old Self appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Ballantine‘s blended Scotch whisky proudly reflects on the electrifying success of the “Even In The Day” Festival, held on December 20th and 21st, 2024, at Muri Okunola Park in Lagos. The two-day festival brought together thousands of music aficionados for a wonderful experience celebrating a vibrant mix of Amapiano, Afro-house, EDM, and deep house music.

The venue came alive as attendees immersed themselves in the festival’s energy. Ballantine’s played a vital role with its signature handmade cocktails that perfectly complemented the lively atmosphere.

On Day 1, the Soakers Experience converted the Park into a water-themed wonderland with giant water slides, splash zones, water cannon wars, and balloon fights, adding a humorous element to the festival. The atmosphere was boosted by amazing performances, with Skyla Tylaa stealing the show by debuting a previously unreleased track from Wizkid‘s Morayo album.

Skyla’s performance, which was hyped by Poco Lee and featured a surprise cameo by Wizkid, was a standout of the night, leaving attendees stunned. International DJs Vigro Deep, DJ Khalifa, Yosa, and DJ Latitude kept the party going with pulsating Amapiano beats that boomed across the park.

Day 2 was for die-hard electronic and house music aficionados. Tobi Peter, DJ Khalifa, Six7even, and Sounds of Ace took to the decks and kept the crowd dancing late into the night. The Interactive Playoff Stage added a new level of excitement, with people partaking in rap battles, dance-offs, and bull rides. This made the festival more than just music—it was a celebration of creativity and joy. DJ Consequence and Blak Dave closed the festival with stunning sets that left fans with lasting memories.

The festival perfectly exemplified Ballantine’s values of creativity, true community, and unforgettable experiences. Ballantine’s, with a focus on music and entertainment, has positioned itself as one of the key players in Nigeria’s growing social and culture scene.

Sponsored Content

The post Two Days of Music, Dance, and Good Vibes: Enjoy Highlights from the ‘Even in the Day’ Festival in Partnership with Ballantine’s appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Qing Madi kicks off the new year with her signature Afro-RnB flair, gracing the COLORS stage with a captivating performance of her latest single, “Favourite Psycho.”

Set against hypnotic Afrobeats percussion and silky R&B harmonies, Qing Madi’s heartfelt vocals glide effortlessly over the instrumentation as she delves into themes of love, betrayal, and the enduring hope of reconciliation. Her evocative performance brings emotional depth to the track, leaving listeners spellbound.

Watch below:

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Photo credit: temsbaby/Instagram

The 56th NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) Image Award nominations have been announced, with Tems, Ayo Edebiri, Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Cynthia Erivo among the standout names being recognised this year. The awards celebrate exceptional talent across a variety of categories.

The award ceremony will be held on February 22 and will air live in a two-hour broadcast from the Pasadena Civic Center on BET and CBS. This year’s theme is “Our Stories, Our Culture, Our Excellence.”

Usher and Burna Boy are nominated for “Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Contemporary)” for their song “Coming Home”, while Wizkid has earned a nomination for his track “Piece of My Heart” featuring Brent Faiyaz in the “Outstanding International Song“ category. Tems also sees recognition in the same category for her song “Love Me JeJe.”

Tyla is up for “Outstanding New Artist,” and Ayo Edebiri leads the nominations with five, including one for “Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series,” “Outstanding voiceover,” and others.

In the animated category, “Iwájú” (Disney+) has been nominated for “Outstanding Animated Series.”

See the full list of nominations below.

Entertainer of the Year Nominees 

• Cynthia Erivo
• Keke Palmer
• Kendrick Lamar
• Kevin Hart
• Shannon Sharpe

Outstanding Social Media Personality of the Year Nominees

• Kai Cenat
• Keith Lee
• RaeShanda Lias
• Shirley Raines
• Tony Baker

Motion Pictures Categories 

Outstanding Motion Picture

• “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” (Sony Pictures)
• “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• “Wicked” (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture

• André Holland — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Colman Domingo — “Sing Sing” (A24)
• John David Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Kingsley Ben-Adir — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• Martin Lawrence — “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” (Sony Pictures)

Outstanding Actress in a Motion Picture

• Cynthia Erivo — “Wicked” (Universal Pictures)
• Kerry Washington — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• Lashana Lynch — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• Lupita Nyong’o — “A Quiet Place: Day One” (Paramount Pictures)
• Regina King — “Shirley” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture

• Brian Tyree Henry — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)
• Corey Hawkins — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• David Alan Grier — “The American Society of Magical Negroes” (Focus Features)
• Denzel Washington — “Gladiator II” (Paramount Pictures)
• Samuel L. Jackson — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture

• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Danielle Deadwyler — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Ebony Obsidian — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• Lynn Whitfield — “Albany Road” (Faith Filmworks)

Outstanding Independent Motion Picture

• “Albany Road” (Faith Filmworks)
• “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• “Rob Peace” (Republic Pictures)
• “Sing Sing” (A24)
• “We Grown Now” (Sony Pictures Classics)

Outstanding International Motion Picture

• “El lugar de la otra” (Netflix)
• “Emilia Pérez” (Netflix)
• “Memoir of a Snail” (IFC Films)
• “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” (NEON)
• “The Wall Street Boy, Kipkemboi” (ArtMattan Films)

Outstanding Breakthrough Performance in a Motion Picture

• Brandon Wilson — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Clarence Maclin — “Sing Sing” (A24)
• Danielle Deadwyler — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Ebony Obsidian — “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• Ryan Destiny — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)

Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture

• “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)
• “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• “The Six Triple Eight” (Netflix)
• “Wicked” (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Animated Motion Picture

• “Inside Out 2” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• “Kung Fu Panda 4” (DreamWorks Animation)
• “Moana 2” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• “Piece by Piece” (Focus Features)
• “The Wild Robot” (DreamWorks Animation)

Outstanding Character Voiceover Performance – Motion Picture

• Aaron Pierre — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Anika Noni Rose — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Ayo Edebiri — “Inside Out 2” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Blue Ivy Carter — “Mufasa: The Lion King” (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
• Lupita Nyong’o — “The Wild Robot” (DreamWorks Animation)

Outstanding Short Form (Live Action)

• “Chocolate with Sprinkles” (AFI)
• “Definitely Not a Monster”
• “If They Took Us Back”
• “My Brother & Me” (MeowBark Films)
• “Superman Doesn’t Steal”

Outstanding Short Form (Animated)

• “if(fy)” (OTB/The Hidden Hand Studios)
• “Nate & John” (Unity Animation Project, LLC)
• “Peanut Headz: Black History Toonz ‘Jackie Robinson’” (Exhibit Treal Studios)
• “Self” (Pixar Animation Studios)
• “Walk in the Light” (419 Studios)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Motion Picture)

• David Fortune — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios)
• Malcolm Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• RaMell Ross — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Titus Kaphar — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Zoë Kravitz — “Blink Twice” (Amazon MGM Studios)

Outstanding Youth Performance in a Motion Picture

• Anthony B. Jenkins — “The Deliverance” (Netflix)
• Blake Cameron James — “We Grown Now” (Sony Pictures Classics)
• Jeremiah Daniels — “Color Book” (Tribeca Studios)
• Percy Daggs IV — “Never Let Go” (Lionsgate)
• Skylar Aleece Smith — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Cinematography in a Motion Picture

• Andrés Arochi — “Longlegs” (NEON)
• Jomo Fray — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Justin Derry — “She Taught Love” (Andscape)
• Lachlan Milne — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Rob Hardy — “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)

Television and Streaming Categories  

Outstanding Comedy Series

• “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• “How to Die Alone” (Hulu)
• “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
• “The Neighborhood” (CBS)
• “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series

• Cedric The Entertainer — “The Neighborhood” (CBS)
• Damon Wayans — “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
• David Alan Grier — “St. Denis Medical” (NBC)
• Delroy Lindo — “UnPrisoned” (Hulu)
• Mike Epps — “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Series

• Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)
• Kerry Washington — “UnPrisoned” (Hulu)
• Natasha Rothwell — “How to Die Alone” (Hulu)
• Quinta Brunson — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Tichina Arnold — “The Neighborhood” (CBS)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

• Damon Wayans Jr. — “Poppa’s House” (CBS)
• Giancarlo Esposito — “The Gentlemen” (Netflix)
• Kenan Thompson — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Tyler James Williams — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• William Stanford Davis — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

• Danielle Pinnock — “Ghosts” (CBS)
• Ego Nwodim — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Janelle James — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Sheryl Lee Ralph — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Wanda Sykes — “The Upshaws” (Netflix)

Outstanding Drama Series

• “9-1-1” (ABC)
• “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• “Found” (NBC)
• “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)

Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series

• Aldis Hodge — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Donald Glover — “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Harold Perrineau — “From” (MGM+)
• Jabari Banks — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Michael Rainey Jr. — “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)

Outstanding Actress in a Drama Series

• Angela Bassett — “9-1-1” (ABC)
• Emayatzy Corinealdi — “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)
• Queen Latifah — “The Equalizer” (CBS)
• Shanola Hampton — “Found” (NBC)
• Zoe Saldaña — “Lioness” (Paramount+)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

• Adrian Holmes — “Bel-Air” (Netflix)
• Cliff “Method Man” Smith — “Power Book II: Ghost” (Starz)
• Isaiah Mustafa — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Jacob Latimore — “The Chi” (Paramount+)
• Morris Chestnut — “Reasonable Doubt” (Hulu)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

• Adjoa Andoh — “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
• Coco Jones — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Golda Rosheuvel — “Bridgerton” (Netflix)
• Lorraine Toussaint — “The Equalizer” (CBS)
• Lynn Whitfield — “The Chi” (Paramount+)

Outstanding Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• “Griselda” (Netflix)
• “Rebel Ridge” (Netflix)
• “The Madness” (Netflix)

Outstanding Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Aaron Pierre — “Rebel Ridge” (Netflix)
• Colman Domingo — “The Madness” (Netflix)
• Kelvin Harrison Jr. — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• Kevin Hart — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Laurence Fishburne — “Clipped” (FX/Hulu)

Outstanding Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
• Naturi Naughton — “Abducted at an HBCU: A Black Girl Missing Movie” (Lifetime)
• Sanaa Lathan — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)
• Sofía Vergara — “Griselda” (Netflix)
• Uzo Aduba — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Don Cheadle — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Luke James — “Them: The Scare” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Ron Cephas Jones — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• Samuel L. Jackson — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Terrence Howard — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Television (Series, Special or Movie)

• Brandy Norwood — “Descendants: The Rise of Red” (Disney+)
• Jayme Lawson — “Genius: MLK/X” (National Geographic)
• Loretta Devine — “Terry McMillan Presents: Tempted By Love” (Lifetime)
• Sanaa Lathan — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
• Taraji P. Henson — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)

Outstanding News/Information (Series or Special)

• “Black Men’s Summit” (BET Media Group)
• “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.” (PBS)
• “Laura Coates Live” (CNN)
• “NewsNight with Abby Phillip” (CNN)
• “The ReidOut” (MSNBC)

Outstanding Talk Series

• “Hart to Heart” (Peacock)
• “Sherri” (Syndicated)
• “Tamron Hall Show” (Syndicated)
• “The Jennifer Hudson Show” (Syndicated)
• “The Shop” Season 7 (YouTube)

Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition or Game Show (Series)

• “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC)
• “Password” (NBC)
• “Rhythm + Flow” (Netflix)
• “The Real Housewives of Potomac” (Bravo)
• “Tia Mowry: My Next Act” (WeTV)

Outstanding Variety Show (Series or Special)

• “BET Awards 2024” (BET Media Group)
• “Deon Cole: Ok, Mister” (Netflix)
• “Jamie Foxx: What Had Happened Was…” (Netflix)
• “Katt Williams: Woke Foke” (Netflix)
• “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)

Outstanding Children’s Program

• “Craig of the Creek” (Cartoon Network)
• “Descendants: The Rise of Red” (Disney+)
• “Gracie’s Corner” (YouTube TV)
• “Sesame Street” (Max)
• “Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home, Franklin” (Apple TV+)

Outstanding Performance by a Youth (Series, Special, Television Movie or Limited Series)

• Caleb Elijah — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Graceyn Hollingsworth — “Gracie’s Corner” (YouTube TV)
• Leah Sava Jeffries — “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” (Disney+)
• Melody Hurd — “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• TJ Mixson — “The Madness” (Netflix)

Outstanding Host in a Talk or News/Information (Series or Special) – Individual or Ensemble

• Abby Phillip — “NewsNight with Abby Phillip” (CNN)
• Henry Louis Gates Jr. — “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.” (PBS)
• Jennifer Hudson — “The Jennifer Hudson” (Syndicated)
• Joy Reid — “The Reidout” (MSNBC)
• Sherri Shepherd — “Sherri” (Syndicated)

Outstanding Host in a Reality/Reality Competition, Game Show or Variety (Series or Special) –
Individual or Ensemble

• Alfonso Ribeiro — “Dancing with the Stars” (ABC)
• Keke Palmer — “Password” (NBC)
• Nick Cannon — “The Masked Singer” (FOX)
• Steve Harvey — “Celebrity Family Feud” (ABC)
• Taraji P. Henson — “BET Awards 2024” (BET Media Group)

Outstanding Guest Performance

• Ayo Edebiri — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)
• Cree Summer — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Keegan-Michael Key — “Abbott Elementary” (ABC)
• Marlon Wayans — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Maya Rudolph — “Saturday Night Live” (NBC)

Outstanding Animated Series

• “Disney Jr.’s Ariel” (Disney Jr.)
• “Everybody Still Hates Chris” (Comedy Central)
• “Gracie’s Corner” (YouTube TV)
• “Iwájú” (Disney+)
• “Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur” (Disney Channel)

Outstanding Character Voiceover Performance (Television)

• Angela Bassett — “Orion and the Dark” (Netflix)
• Cree Summer — “Rugrats” (Nickelodeon)
• Cree Summer — “The Legend of Vox Machina” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Dawnn Lewis — “Star Trek: Lower Decks” (Paramount+)
• Keke Palmer — “The Second Best Hospital in the Galaxy” (Amazon Prime Video)

Outstanding Short Form Series or Special – Reality/Nonfiction/Documentary

• “In the Margins” (PBS)
• NCAA Basketball on CBS Sports (CBS)
• “Roots of Resistance” (PBS)
• “SC Featured” (ESPN)
• “The Prince of Death Row Records “(YouTube TV)

Outstanding Breakthrough Creative (Television)

• Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” (FX/Hulu)
• Diarra Kilpatrick — “Diarra From Detroit” (BET+)
• Maurice Williams — “The Madness” (Netflix)
• Thembi L. Banks — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
• Vince Staples — “The Vince Staples Show” (Netflix)

Recording Categories

Outstanding New Artist

• Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
• Myles Smith (RCA Records/Sony Music Entertainment)
• Samoht (Affective Music)
• Shaboozey (American Dogwood/Empire)
• Tyla (Epic Records)

Outstanding Male Artist

• Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
• J. Cole (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
• Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
• October London (Death Row Records/gamma.)
• Usher (mega/gamma.)

Outstanding Female Artist

• Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
• Doechii (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
• GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
• H.E.R. (RCA Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Album

• “Heart of a Human” — DOE (Life Room Label/RCA Inspiration)
• “Live Breathe Fight” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)
• “Still Karen” — Karen Clark Sheard (Karew Records/Motown Gospel)
• “Sunny Days” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
• “The Maverick Way Reimagined” — Maverick City Music (Tribl Records)

Outstanding International Song

• “Close” — Skip Marley (Def Jam Recordings)
• “Hmmm” — Chris Brown feat. Davido (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
• “Jump” — Tyla (Epic Records)
• “Love Me JeJe” — Tems (RCA Records/Since ‘93)
• “Piece of My Heart” — Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz (RCA Records/Sony Music International/Starboy Entertainment)

Outstanding Music Video/Visual Album

• “Alright” — Victoria Monét (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
• “Alter Ego (ALTERnate Version)” — Doechii, JT (Capitol Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)
• “Boy Bye” — Chlöe (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
• “Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Album

• “Alligator Bites Never Heal” — Doechii (Epic Records)
• “Cape Town to Cairo” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
• “Coming Home” — USHER (mega/gamma.)
• “Cowboy Carter” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• “Glorious” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Soundtrack/Compilation Album

• “Bob Marley: One Love (Soundtrack)” (Tuff Gong/Island Records)
• “Genius: MLK/X (Songs from the Original Series)” (Hollywood Records)
• “Reasonable Doubt (Season 2) (Original Soundtrack)” (Hollywood Records)
• “The Book of Clarence (The Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (Geneva Club under exclusive license to Roc Nation Records, LLC)
• “Wicked: The Soundtrack” (Republic Records)

Outstanding Gospel/Christian Song

• “Church Doors” — Yolanda Adams (Epic Records)
• “Do It Anyway” — Tasha Cobbs (TeeLee Records/Motown Gospel)
• “God Problems (Not By Power)” — (Tribl Records)
• “I Prayed for You (Said a Prayer)” MAJOR. — (NowThatsMAJOR/MNRK Music Group)
• “Working for Me” — Tamela Mann (Tillymann Music Group)

Outstanding Jazz Album

• “Creole Orchestra” — Etienne Charles (Culture Shock Music)
• “Epic Cool” — Kirk Whalum (Artistry Music)
• “Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies” — Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni (Solid Jackson Records)
• “On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute” — Matthew Whitaker (MOCAT Records)
• “Portrait” — Samara Joy (Verve Records)

Outstanding Soul/R&B Song

• “16 CARRIAGES” — Beyoncé (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment LLC)
• “Here We Go (Uh Oh)” — Coco Jones (Def Jam Recordings)
• “I Found You” — PJ Morton (Morton Records/EMPIRE)
• “Residuals” — Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
• “Saturn” — SZA (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)

Outstanding Hip Hop/Rap Song

• “Mamushi” — Megan Thee Stallion feat. Yuki Chiba (Hot Girl Productions LLC/Warner Music Group)
• “Murdergram Deux” — LL Cool J feat. Eminem (Def Jam Recordings)
• “Noid” — Tyler, the Creator (Columbia Records)
• “Not Like Us” — Kendrick Lamar (pgLang, under exclusive license to Interscope Records)
• “Yeah Glo!” — GloRilla (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration (Traditional)

• Adam Blackstone & Fantasia — “Summertime” (BASSic Black Entertainment Records/Anderson Music Group/EMPIRE)
• Leela James feat. Kenyon Dixon — “Watcha Done Now” (Shesangz Music, Inc. under exclusive license to BMG Rights Management (US) LLC)
• Maverick City Music feat. Miles Minnick — “God Problems (Not By Power)” (Tribl Records)
• Muni Long & Mariah Carey — “Made for Me” (Supergiant Records/Def Jam Recordings)
• Sounds of Blackness feat. Jamecia Bennett & Buddy McLain — “Thankful” (McLain Music, LLC)

• Flo & GloRilla — “In My Bag” (Island Records)
• GloRilla feat. Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore — “RAIN DOWN
• ON ME” (Collective Music Group/Interscope Records)
• Usher & Burna Boy — “Coming Home” (mega/gamma.)
• Victoria Monét feat. Usher — “SOS” (Sex on Sight) (RCA Records/Lovett Music)
• Wizkid feat. Brent Faiyaz — “Piece of My Heart” (RCA Records/Lovett Music)

Outstanding Original Score for Television/Motion Picture

• “Challengers (Original Score)” (Milan Records)
• “Dune: Part Two (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (WaterTower Music)
• “Star Wars: The Acolyte (Original Soundtrack)” (Walt Disney Records)
• “The American Society of Magical Negroes (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” (Back Lot Music)
• “The Book of Clarence (Original Motion Picture Score)” (Milan Records)

Documentary Categories  

Outstanding Documentary (Film)

• “Daughters” (Netflix)
• “Frida” (Amazon MGM Studios)
• “King of Kings: Chasing Edward Jones” (Freestyle Digital Media)
• “Luther: Never Too Much” (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
• “The Greatest Night in Pop” (Netflix)

Outstanding Documentary (Television)

• “Black Barbie: A Documentary” (Netflix)
• “Black Twitter: A People’s History” (Hulu)
• “Gospel” (PBS)
• “Simone Biles Rising” (Netflix)
• “Sprint” (Netflix)

Outstanding Short Form Documentary (Film)

• “Camille A. Brown: Giant Steps” (American Masters and Firelight Media)
• “Danielle Scott: Ancestral Call” (American Masters and Firelight Media)
• “How to Sue the Klan”
• “Judging Juries”
• “Silent Killer” (Kaila Love Jones Films)

Writing Categories  

Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series

• Ashley Nicole Black — “Shrinking” – “Changing Patterns” (Apple TV+)
• Brittani Nichols — “Abbott Elementary” – “Breakup” (ABC)
• Crystal Jenkins — “No Good Deed” – “Letters of Intent” (Netflix)
• Diarra Kilpatrick — “Diarra From Detroit” – “Chasing Ghosts” (BET+)
• Jordan Temple — “Abbott Elementary” – “Smoking” (ABC)

Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series

• Azia Squire — “Bridgerton” – “Tick Tock” (Netflix)
• Ben Watkins — “Cross” – “Hero Complex” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Francesca Sloane, Donald Glover — “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” – “First Date” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Geetika Lizardi — “Bridgerton” – “Joining of Hands” (Netflix)
• Lauren Gamble — “Bridgerton” – “Old Friends” (Netflix)

• Brandon Espy, Carl Reid — “Mr. Crocket” (Hulu)
• Bree West, Chazitear — “A Wesley South African Christmas” (BET+)
• Juel Taylor, Tony Rettenmaier, Thembi L. Banks — “Young. Wild. Free.” (BET+)
• Rudy Mancuso, Dan Lagana — “Música” (Amazon Prime Video)
• Tina Mabry, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Cee Marcellus — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Writing in a Motion Picture

• Barry Jenkins — “The Fire Inside” (Amazon MGM Studios)
• RaMell Ross, Joslyn Barnes — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Steve McQueen — “Blitz” (Apple Original Films)
• Titus Kaphar — “Exhibiting Forgiveness” (Roadside Attractions)
• Virgil Williams, Malcolm Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Directing Categories  

Outstanding Directing in a Comedy Series

• Ayo Edebiri — “The Bear” – “Napkins” (FX/Hulu)
• Bentley Kyle Evans — “Mind Your Business” – “The Reunion” (Bounce TV)
• Robbie Countryman — “The Upshaws” – “Ain’t Broke” (Netflix)
• Tiffany Johnson — “How to Die Alone” – “Trust No One” (Hulu)
• William Smith — “The Vince Staples Show” – “Brown Family” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Drama Series

• Carl Franklin — “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” – “Blame It on the Rain” (Netflix)
• Marta Cunningham — “Genius: MLK/X” – “Protect Us” (National Geographic)
• Marta Cunningham — “Genius: MLK/X” – “Who We Are” (National Geographic)
• Paris Barclay — “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story” – “Brother, Can You Spare a Dime?” (Netflix)
• Rapman — “Supacell” – “Supacell” (Netflix)

Outstanding Directing in a Television Movie, Documentary, or Special

• Kelley Kali — “Kemba” (BET+)
• Marcelo Gama — “BET Awards 2024” (BET Media Group)
• Shanta Fripp — “Black Men’s Summit” (BET Media Group)
• Thembi L. Banks — “Young. Wild. Free” (BET+)
• Tina Mabry — “The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can Eat” (Hulu/Searchlight Pictures)

Outstanding Directing in a Motion Picture

• Jeymes Samuel — “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)
• Malcolm Washington — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• RaMell Ross — “Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
• Reinaldo Marcus Green — “Bob Marley: One Love” (Paramount Pictures)
• Steve McQueen — “Blitz” (Apple Original Films)

Outstanding Directing in a Documentary (Television or Motion Picture)

• Bao Nguyen — “The Greatest Night in Pop” (Netflix)
• Dawn Porter — “Luther: Never Too Much” (Sony Music Entertainment/Sony Music Publishing/CNN Films)
• Deborah Riley Draper — “James Brown: Say It Loud” (A&E)
• Jason Pollard, Sam Pollard — “Ol’ Dirty Bastard: A Tale of Two Dirtys” (A&E)
• Nneka Onuorah — “Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words” (Amazon Prime Video)

Literary Categories  

Outstanding Literary Work – Fiction

• “A Love Song for Ricki Wilde” — Tia Williams (Grand Central Publishing – Hachette Book Group)
• “Grown Woman” — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)
• “Neighbors and Other Stories” — Diane Oliver, Tayari Jones (Foreword) (Grove Atlantic)
• “One of Us Knows: A Thriller” — Alyssa Cole (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)
• “What You Leave Behind” — Wanda M. Morris (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Nonfiction

• “A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit: The Vision of Mary McLeod Bethune” — Noliwe Rooks (Penguin Press – Penguin Books)
• “Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest” — Fawn Weaver (Melcher Media Inc.)
• “Picturing Black History: Photographs and Stories that Changed the World” — Daniela Edmeier,
  Damarius Johnson, Nicholas B. Breyfogle and Steven Conn (Abrams Books – Harry N. Abrams)
• “The 1619 Project: A Visual Experience” — Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times Magazine (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)
• “The Jazzmen: How Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Count Basie Transformed America” — Larry Tye (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Debut Author

• “A Kind of Madness” — Uche Okonkwo (Tin House Books)
• “AfroCentric Style: A Celebration of Blackness & Identity in Pop Culture” — Shirley Neal (HarperCollins Amistad)
• “Grown Woman” — Sarai Johnson (Harper – HarperCollins Publishers)
• “Masquerade” — O.O. Sangoyomi (Forge Books – Tor Publishing Group)
• “Swift River” — Essie Chambers (Simon & Schuster)

Outstanding Literary Work – Biography/Autobiography

• “Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me” — Whoopi Goldberg (Blackstone Publishing)
• “By the Time You Read This: The Space Between Cheslie’s Smile and Mental Illness” ― Her
  Story in Her Own Words — Cheslie Kryst and April Simpkins (Forefront Books)
• “Do It Anyway: Don’t Give Up Before It Gets Good” — Tasha Cobbs Leonard, Sarah Jakes Roberts (Foreword) (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House)
• “Lovely One: A Memoir” — Ketanji Brown Jackson (Random House)
• “Medgar and Myrlie: Medgar Evers and the Love Story That Awakened America” — JoyAnn Reid (Mariner Books – HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Literary Work – Instructional

• “Black Joy Playbook: 30 Days of Intentionally Reclaiming Your Delight” — Tracey Michae’l Lewis-Giggets (Ink & Willow – Penguin Random House)
• “I Did a New Thing: 30 Days to Living Free (A Feeding the Soul Book)” — Tabitha Brown (William Morrow – HarperCollins Publishers)
• “Loving Your Black Neighbor as Yourself: A Guide to Closing the Space Between Us” — Chanté Griffin (WaterBrook – Penguin Random House)
• “Radical Self-Care: Rituals for Inner Resilience” — Rebecca Moore (Author), Amberlee Green (Illustrator) (The Quarto Group/Leaping Hare Press)
• “Wash Day: Passing on the Legacy, Rituals, and Love of Natural Hair” — Tomesha Faxio (Clarkson Potter – Crown Publishing Group)

Outstanding Literary Work – Poetry

• “Bluff: Poems” — Danez Smith (Graywolf Press)
• “Good Dress” — Brittany Rogers (Tin House Books)
• “Load in Nine Times: Poems” — Frank X Walker (Liveright Publishing – W.W. Norton & Company)
• “Song of My Softening” — Omotara James (Alice James Books)
• “This Is the Honey: An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets” — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown and Company)

Outstanding Literary Work – Children

• “All I Need to Be” — Rachel Ricketts (Author), Tiffany Rose (Illustrator) with Luana Horry (Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers)
• “Cicely Tyson” — Renée Watson (Author), Sherry Shine (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers)
• “Crowning Glory: A Celebration of Black Hair” — Carole Boston Weatherford (Author), Ekua Holmes (Illustrator) (Candlewick Press)
• “My Hair Is a Book” — Maisha Oso (Author), London Ladd (Illustrator) (HarperCollins Publishers)
• “You Can Be a Good Friend (No Matter What!): A Lil TJ Book” — Taraji P. Henson (Author), Paul Kellam (Illustrator) (Zonderkidz – HarperCollins)

Outstanding Literary Work – Youth/Teens

• “American Wings: Chicago’s Pioneering Black Aviators and the Race for Equality in the Sky” —
  Sherri L. Smith and Elizabeth Wein (G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers)
• “Barracoon Adapted for Young Readers The Story of the Last Black Cargo” — Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi (Adapted by), Jazzmen Lee-Johnson (Illustrator) (Amistad Books for Young Readers)
• “Black Star: The Door of No Return” — Kwame Alexander (Little, Brown Books for Young Readers)
• “Brushed Between Cultures: A YA Coming of Age Novel Set in Brooklyn, New York” — Samarra St. Hilaire (Samarra St. Hilaire)
• “Clutch Time: A Shot Clock Novel (Shot Clock, 2)” — Caron Butler and Justin A. Reynolds (HarperCollins Publishers)

Outstanding Graphic Novel

• “Big Jim and the White Boy: An American Classic Reimagined” — David F. Walker and Marcus Kwame Anderson (Ten Speed Graphic – Penguin Random House)
• “Black Defender: The Awakening” — Dr. David Washington, Mr. Zhengis Tasbolatov (Illustrator), Mr. Billy Blanks (Foreword) (Washington Comix)
• “Gamerville” — Johnnie Christmas (HarperAlley – HarperCollins Publishers)
• “Ghost Roast” — Shawneé Gibbs, Shawnelle Gibbs, Emily Cannon (Illustrator) (Versify – HarperCollins Publishers)
• “Punk Rock Karaoke” — Bianca Xunise (Viking Books for Young Readers)

Podcast Categories  

Outstanding News and Information Podcast

• “SundayCivics” (LJW Community Strategies)
• “After the Uprising” (iHeartPodcasts, Double Asterisk)
• “Into America: Uncounted Millions” (MSNBC)
• “Native Land Pod” (iHeartPodcasts, Reasoned Choice Media)
• “The Assignment with Audie Cornish” (CNN Audio)

Outstanding Lifestyle/Self–Help Podcast

• “Balanced Black Girl” (Dear Media)
• “Is This Going to Cause An Argument” (Seven14Seven Media)
• “The R Spot with Iyanla” (Shondaland)
• “Therapy for Black Girls” (iHeartPodcasts)
• “We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling” (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)

Outstanding Society and Culture Podcast

• “Baby, This is Keke Palmer” (Wondery)
• “Club Shay Shay” (Shay Shay Media & The Volume)
• “Higher Learning with Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay” (The Ringer)
• “We Don’t Always Agree with Ryan & Sterling” (ABF Creative & Indian Meadows Productions)
• “What Now? with Trevor Noah” (Spotify Studios in partnership with Day Zero Productions and Fulwell 73)

Outstanding Sports, Arts and Entertainment Podcast

• “Naked Sports with Cari Champion” (The Black Effect Podcast Network)
• “Nightcap” (Shay Shay Media & The Volume)
• “Questlove Supreme” (iHeartPodcasts)
• “R&B Money Podcast” (R&B Money)
• “Two Funny Mamas” (Mocha Podcasts Network)

Outstanding Podcast – Limited Series/Short Form

• “About the Journey” (Marriott Bonvoy, AT WILL MEDIA & mntra)
• “Squeezed with Yvette Nicole Brown” (Lemonda Media)
• “Stranded” (Broadway Video)
• “The Wonder of Stevie” (Audible, Higher Ground and Pineapple Street Studios)
• “When We Win with Maya Rupert” (Lemonada Media)

Costume Design, Make-Up and Hairstyling Categories  

Outstanding Costume Design (Television or Film)

• Ernesto Martinez — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Megan Coates — “Shirley” (Netflix)
• Gersha Phillips — “The Big Cigar” (Apple TV+)
• Francine Jamison-Tanchuck — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)
• Paul Tazewell — “Wicked” (Universal Pictures)

Outstanding Make-up (Television or Film)

• Carol Rasheed — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Debi Young — “Shirley” (Netflix)
• Rebecca Lee — “Shōgun” (Netflix)
• Matiki Anoff — “The Book of Clarence” (Sony Pictures)
• Para Malden — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Outstanding Hairstyling (Television or Film)

• Terry Hunt — “Bel-Air” (Peacock)
• Lawrence Davis — “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” (Peacock)
• Nakoya Yancey — “Shirley” (Netflix)
• Brian Badie — “The Penguin” (HBO/Max)
• Andrea Mona Bowman — “The Piano Lesson” (Netflix)

Stunt Category  

Outstanding Stunt Ensemble (TV or Film)

• “Cross” (Amazon Prime Video)
• “Grotesquerie” (FX/Hulu)
• “Rebel Ridge” (Netflix)
• “Red One” (Amazon MGM Studios)
• “Them: The Scare” (Amazon Prime Video)

The post Tems, Ayo Edebiri, Wizkid & More Nominated For the 56th NAACP Image Awards appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Red Carpet Ready Morris & Pamela Chestnut for the 82nd Golden Globe Awards

Pamela, a vision in black velvet, stole the show in a stunning creation by Nigerian designer Erica Moore. The sultry mermaid dress showcased Moore’s exquisite craftsmanship on the global stage.

Pamela was a paragon with flawlessly glowing skin, a sleek ponytail, and a subtle facebeat. She had three (3) ear piercings clad in gem studs matching her resplendent clutch. See below:

Pamela Chestnut

Pamela Chestnut dressed and ready for the Golden Globes

Morris, looking dapper as ever, opted for a custom look from GRAY. The striking orange suit with a contrasting black button was elegantly styled with a pair of black shoes. Styled by J.Bolin, Morris layered his suit with a matching shirt and tie. The vibrant hue perfectly complemented his complexion, showcasing the power of Melanin.

Morris Chestnut

The handsome heartthrob once again proved that age is just a number, showcasing his timeless style and undeniable charm.

 

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Morris Chestnut, Styled by J.Bolin

Morris Chestnut

Pamela Chestnut, never one to be outdone, turned heads in her asymmetrical neckline outfit paired with matching Opera gloves.

Pamela Chestnut brought a touch of African flair to the Golden Globes red carpet, and we are in love

The outfit is perfectly complemented by Morris’ black blazer button and shoes. The couple’s decision to embrace Nigerian fashion on this global stage is a powerful testament to the country’s burgeoning design talent.

Morris & Pamela Chestnut

Erica Moore, known for its bold colours, intricate embellishments, and luxurious fabrics, has become a favourite among celebrities seeking statement pieces. The Chestnuts’ red carpet moment is sure to put the spotlight on the brand’s exquisite craftsmanship and elevate the brand’s international profile.

Married since 1995, Morris and Pamela Chestnut’s red carpet appearance is a celebration of Black love and excellence. Their confident and stylish presence is an inspiration to couples everywhere, a testament to the growing influence of African fashion on the international scene.

Morris & Pamela Chestnut

Check out this commentary from Natalie

@nataliethehero Morris Chestnut and his wife, Pam, shut the Golden Globes down! Gorgeous couple!!! #morrischestnut #pamchestnut #goldenglobes #watson #watsoncbs #twocanplaythatgame #reasonabledoubt #cbs #goldenglobes2025 #celebritycouple #celebritycouples #celebrity #popculture #popculturenews #fashion #style ♬ original sound – n a t a l i e

CREDITS

Couple:  @morrischestnutofficial and @pamelachestnut
Stylist: @stylistjbolin
Assistant stylist: @_mekstyles_
Suit: @houseofgray_
Gown: @ericamoorebrand
Clutch: @terrycostabridal @terrycostaprom
Tailoring: @gregoire_byparis
Grooming: @geelow
Hair: @hairiscoriej
PR: @jocelynrcoleman
Photographer: @markiswhoiam
Video: @nataliethehero

Dive into the extraordinary world of African fashion & lifestyle on BellaNaijaStyle.com

The post The Best Dressed Couple at the Golden Globes: Morris & Pamela Chestnut appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: Liz Sanya/Instagram

Liz Sanya, a young and visionary fashion designer, has just completed her Guinness World Record attempt for the World’s Largest Sandal!

Her creation, a striking pink clog measuring an impressive 4.8 metres (15 feet 9 inches) in length, was brought to life over the span of three days in Lagos. The remarkable feat was supported by a host of stars and well-wishers, including music artistes Mayorkun, Pheelz, P.Priime, Taves, music entrepreneur Bizzle Osikoya, filmmaker Korty, and many others who cheered her on and celebrated her ambition.

Liz’s journey began on 2nd January at 5 p.m. and concluded on the 4th, with the process taking a dedicated 72 hours to complete. Reflecting on her drive for innovation and excellence, Liz shared her passion for her craft, stating:

I’ll never be able to put into words what any of this means to me, I started designing shoes when I was 12 and by 14 I was selling them to fund a ‘habit’ I couldn’t afford. None of this has been possible without the support and compassion of the people who see me and believe in my vision. Ibadan… where I was born. Lagos where I was inspired. It was only right to come back home and prove it. 1 world record to beat, within 72hrs…

See photos capturing the moments from the attempt

 

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The post Liz Sanya Completes 72-Hour Guinness World Record Bid for World’s Largest Sandal appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo credit: Amanda_dara/Instagram

TV host and actress Amanda Dara is back with an exciting new season of her “Open Up Podcast, ” launching on the 10th of January.  

After a successful first season, Amanda is taking things to the next level with raw, honest conversations that cover everything from personal struggles to healing and life lessons. As Amanda herself says:

Season 2 is not just about conversations; it’s about connecting, healing, and sharing real stories that remind us we’re never alone.

In the upcoming season, Amanda is joined by a range of guests, including Reality TV star Venita Akpofure, media personality Pamilerin Adegoke, event planner Funke Bucknor, and more.

Check out the sneak peek of what’s coming up below:

The post New Season, New Conversations: Amanda Dara is Back with Open Up Podcast Season 2 appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: Nottingham Forest/Instagram

Super Eagles’ striker Taiwo Awoniyi scored his first goal of the season to help Nottingham Forest secure a 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday evening. The 27-year-old forward’s goal marked a moment of redemption, coming 324 days after he had been sidelined due to a lengthy injury.

Coming on as a substitute in the 88th minute, Taiwo wasted no time making an impact. In stoppage time, he netted with a well-placed assist from Morgan Gibbs–White, sealing the win and adding to Nottingham Forest’s strong start to 2025.

The victory extended their unbeaten run to six consecutive Premier League wins, keeping them in third place on the Premier League table, level on 40 points with second-placed Arsenal and just six points behind league leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand.

After his goal, Taiwo was visibly emotional, dropping to his knees in celebration. He covered his face with his shin pads, which bore the Bible verse James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

See more photos of his emotional celebration and watch the video of his goal.

 

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The post Taiwo Awoniyi’s First Goal of the Season Seals Nottingham Forest’s Win Over Wolves appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Photo Credit: BVLGARI/Instagram

At the 82nd Golden Globes, Zendaya was the talk of the town—and for good reason. The actress and undeniable style icon dazzled on the red carpet in a way only she can, serving a look that instantly set the fashion scene on social media buzzing, and of course, got a spot on our favourite looks of the event.

Her burnt orange custom Louis Vuitton gown paired with an exquisite Bvlgari High Jewellery necklace was pure perfection. But what really stopped everyone in their tracks wasn’t just the dress (as incredible as it was). It was the sparkling diamond ring perched on that finger. A stunning rock on her engagement ring finger had people doing double takes and collectively gasping online.

And, of course, the questions rolled in: Is she engaged? Did Zendaya just debut an engagement ring? What’s Tom Holland saying? Are we getting a confirmation soon? While we’re all waiting for answers, one thing is clear: that ring is absolutely gorgeous.

Take a closer look at the photos below, and join us in swooning—and speculating—because the beautiful reactions online are just as priceless as the ring itself

 

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well congrats to zendaya and tom on the engagement i think?? that is ROCK pic.twitter.com/8eDqps5wn6

— kaia! (@kaiamal13) January 6, 2025

 

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tom and zendaya’s wedding will be more important than the royal wedding btw

— isabelle (@njhollandayaa) January 6, 2025

a better look omg so happy for them! pic.twitter.com/3lwJ0WvuNP

— kaia! (@kaiamal13) January 6, 2025

The post Zendaya’s Golden Globe Look Was Everything—But That Ring? Everyone’s Talking! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The summit aims to connect some of Africa’s most dynamic professionals for an electrifying day of strategic insights and game-changing connections.

“Navigating Innovation & Growth in 2025” isn’t just a theme—it’s a revolution. Dive into cutting-edge strategies from industry titans, engage in intimate networking with Africa’s top innovators, and discover actionable blueprints for personal and professional metamorphosis.

“Hosted by CHAMP’s The Peak Performer Africa, this summit is your exclusive gateway to reimagining what’s possible.”

Dr. Abiola Salami‘s New Year Kickoff Summit aims to transcend traditional events—it’s a strategic catalyst for extraordinary achievement.

“2025 makes it 20 years that I started my career as a performance strategist serving senior leaders, women in leadership, and emerging leaders. The New Year Kickoff Summit is an essential gathering for individuals and organisations looking to improve their performance in 2025,” says Dr. Abiola Salami, the convener.

Describing the summit as a launchpad for success, Dr. Salami emphasised,

“We’re committed to helping our attendees harness their potential and set the tone for a remarkable year ahead. Delegates will start 2025 strong with clarity, direction, and motivation.”

Keynote speakers, including the CEO of Platform Petroleum Ltd, Austin Avuru; MD of LOTUS Bank, Kafilat Araoye; Founder, OLCA Coaching, Dr. Lanre Olusola; Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode Ltd, Prof. Obadare Peter Adewale; and Storyteller, Dr. Chinonso Egemba (Aproko Doctor), will share insights on leadership, innovation, and growth.

What Awaits Attendees?

• Immersive Workshops: Hands-on sessions designed to sharpen your skills
• Strategic Networking: Connect with visionary professionals
• Transformative Insights: Deep dives into goal setting, financial mastery, and personal development

The New Year Kickoff Summit is calling all ambitious business professionals eager for fresh insights, entrepreneurs and startups ready to refine their strategies, leaders and managers looking to inspire their teams, and individuals committed to personal and professional growth.

VIP delegates will have the opportunity to join us for The Kickoff Concert featuring Tope Alabi, Foreva, Asiri, Damola, KennyBlaq, and many award-winning acts.

Interested participants can visit the event website, while organisations can also explore sponsorship packages to align their brands with innovation, leadership, and growth. For sponsorship, contact Dotun at team@tppafrica.com or +2349091234567 for details.

This summit aims to empower individuals and organisations to kickstart the year with purpose, meaningful connections, and actionable insights. Limited seats. Unlimited potential. Are you ready to rewrite your story?

About CHAMP Global
CHAMP GLC, owners of The Peak Performer Africa (TPP), is a full-scale professional services firm trusted by high-performing business leaders across Africa. Their mission is to accelerate socioeconomic growth in Africa by inspiring an inclusive culture of peak performance. Their clients are top-tier in industries including banks, other financial services, media, professional services, manufacturing, healthcare, tech, oil & gas, and more.

It has been recognised by local and global authorities, some of which include the US Consulate and MIPAD-UN, with publications on FORBES and other media outlets.

This content has been published for free as part of BellaNaija.com‘s commitment to youth, education, healthcare and community development as part of our corporate social responsibility programme

The post CHAMP Kickoff Summit 2025: Where Visionary Leaders Converge to Redefine Success appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

The Federal Government has announced plans to implement surveillance measures for inbound passengers from China, following reports of a surge in Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus raising global attention almost five years after the first news of COVID-19.

Dr John Oladejo of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed the government’s proactive stance, stating: “The Federal Government will activate surveillance measures, like quarantine, for passengers coming in from China.”

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the World Health Organisation (WHO) noted: “There has been a recent rise in acute respiratory infections, but the overall scale and intensity of respiratory diseases in China this year are lower than last year.”

While Chinese health officials have not officially linked the surge in respiratory infections to HMPV, the virus has been highlighted as a growing concern globally. In the United States, cases of HMPV have steadily risen since November 2024, with 1.94% of weekly tests returning positive as of late December, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For most people, HMPV causes cold-like symptoms, but in rare cases, it can lead to severe respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in high-risk groups. Unlike COVID-19, there is no antiviral treatment or vaccine for HMPV, though experts stress it is unlikely to spark a global pandemic.

Key Differences Between HMPV and COVID-19

Both HMPV and COVID-19 are contagious respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms, including coughing, fever, nasal congestion, and shortness of breath. However, HMPV is seasonal, typically appearing in winter and spring, whereas COVID-19 has shown year-round transmission due to emerging variants.

Additionally, while COVID-19 has vaccines and antiviral therapies, HMPV is managed through preventive hygiene and supportive care.

Symptoms of HMPV

HMPV symptoms are often mild but can escalate in vulnerable groups. Common symptoms include:

• Cough
• Fever
• Nasal congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Vomitting

In severe cases, HMPV can progress to bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly in infants, older adults, and individuals with underlying health conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Who Is at Risk?

Although anyone can contract HMPV, the following groups are at higher risk of severe outcomes:

• Infants and children under five
• Adults over 65
• Individuals with weakend immune systems (e.g., due to cancer, HIV, or organ transplants)
• People with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD

How HMPV Spreads

HMPV spreads through close contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces. You can become exposed by:

• Touching your mouth, nose, or eyes after contact with infected surfaces
• Inhaling droplets from sneezes or coughs
• Close physical contact, such as handshakes

***

Feature Image by August de Richelieu for Pexels

The post FG Activates Surveillance Amid Rising HMPV Cases in China—What You Need to Know appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

They became even closer friends, and before they knew it, a love that had been waiting to surface blossomed beautifully. Now, they are set to spend the rest of their lives together and are serving heavy doses of love and cuteness with their pre-wedding shoot. Each frame captures their undeniable chemistry and would have you blushing as you scroll.

Enjoy their pre-wedding shoot and love story below:

Their love story as shared by the couple:

Though our families have known each other for over 30 years, our love story truly began at a birthday party in 2019, where a chance encounter brought us together. We knew each other as kids, but we reconnected at that party and quickly formed a strong friendship. Little did we know, that friendship would lay the foundation for something much deeper. As we look back on our journey, we can’t help but recognize the hand of God in bringing us together at just the right time.

Our relationship is rooted in purpose, and we are grateful for the love and growth we’ve experienced along the way. Now, as we step into this next chapter, we do so with excitement and faith, knowing that this is part of a greater plan for us—a journey of love, growth, and happiness, led by God’s grace. We are blessed to have found each other and even more blessed to walk this path together, hand in hand, with God guiding our every step.

Credits

Bride @shirlewang
Groom @therockyway_
Planner @oraventss
Photography @crystalmediaphotography
Videography @masterhandler_films
Reels @bmwreeels
Makeup @mz_weezzystudio
Stylist @edenbynana.fashion | @aniewang
Hair @styledby_donald
Groom’s white outfit @ezekielezzy
Bride’s trad dress @sewphyer

For more weddings, love stories, pre-weddings, and wedding planning tips & inspo,

visit www.bellanaijawedbellanaijaweddings.com

The post A Reunion at a Party Led to Shirley and Odafe’s Happy Ever After! appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Every morning, Tade woke up to her phone by her side, but she never touched it. She would remember to pick up the phone until she washed her face, had her morning prayer, cooked breakfast, bathed and ate. Unless a call came in, the phone would be set by the side of her desk as she began work. The routine was always this and it helped her relationship with her phone – she only used social media to unwind after she had considerably gotten a lot of work done.

One day, though, she was on leave and didn’t have to rise from bed early to cook, bathe or wash her face. When she finished her morning prayers, she crawled back into bed to sleep. She tried to sleep but the sleep didn’t come so she reached out to her phone. Instagram. She scrolled through the page of her favourite bag store and from one scroll to another, she went from staring at bags to shoes to books to outfits, some funny reels here, Pinterest there, and it was almost noon. It became almost difficult to get out of bed so she slept anyway. It wasn’t until evening that she remembered an application she wanted to apply for. She couldn’t finish it that night.

_

Tobe had been eyeing a pair of New Balance since the middle of the month and he promised to buy it once he received his salary. Salary came and he headed to the store, already fantasising about the swag of the new pair to add to the collection. He got to the store, bought a pair of shoes and left. But he didn’t just left. When he got home and started unpacking, he brought out the pair of shoes, sunglasses, a shirt and a face cap. He left home with the intention of just buying a pair of New Balance, but he was captivated by the sight of other accessories he found at the store. And since it was his payday, he decided to dip a little more into his salary.

Has this ever happened to you—visiting a store to buy something, only to end up spending more than you intended?

_

In his 2013 Tedx speech, Cobhams Asuquo narrated how he and his wife walked into a duty-free shop at an airport to get a bottle of water. However, before he knew it, his wife had started browsing through some magazines, books and gummy worms. Asuquo is visually impaired, so unlike his wife, he was unable to browse through other things. All he wanted was a bottle of water. He said, “We went in to buy an item. But ended up browsing for other stuff. And that was when it hit me; sight sometimes, is a distraction.”

Although Asuquo did not mean literal blindness, his metaphor of sight as a distraction tells us how easily people can lose focus on their goals. Sight, in this sense, represents the endless temptations that compete for our attention, pulling us away from our intended path. While the other temptations might actually be part of what we need, what Asuquo means is that what people see sometimes diverts them from what truly matters or determination. His inability to see allowed him to remain fixed on his purpose: to buy water. This shows that being blind—figuratively—is sometimes what people need to remain steadfast in their goals. Blindness in this context is not about sight deprivation but about purposeful exclusion. It is the deliberate narrowing of focus, tuning out distractions and staying committed to the original objective.

And this idea applies to many areas of life. Our world is filled with endless options, opportunities and distractions, which informs us that focus requires a conscious effort to ignore the noise. The ability to be blind to certain things—whether they are material temptations or the pull of momentary pleasures—is essential for maintaining clarity and purpose.

Tade’s productive mornings became disrupted the moment she deviated from her routine and gave in to scrolling through Instagram. It wasn’t her intention to spend the day scrolling, but the vast array of content presented itself as irresistible, delaying her plans. Similarly, Tobe had the intention of buying only a pair of shoes, but the visual appeal of other items in the store persuaded him to spend more than planned. In both cases, sight played a distracting role, shifting focus and priorities.

“Now, don’t get me wrong. Sight is a precious gift. Sight is a very precious gift. But, on your way to your destination, what you see can also be a big distraction from your goal. So, I have learned that you have to be blind in order to be focused. Focus is blindness in a sense,” Asuquo said.

Now, what distractions do you need to be blind to in order to truly see your goals?

***

Feature Image by Cotton Bro for Pexels

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From bold statement lips to intricately detailed nails, and luminous skin that radiated on the red carpet, the stars redefined glamour in the most extraordinary ways. This year, the looks were a perfect blend of classic elegance and daring creativity, proving that the Golden Globes is as much about fashion and beauty as it is about film and television.

Here’s a roundup of the top iconic looks that stole the spotlight and left us utterly inspired.

 

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The post Check Out 2025’s Golden Globes Most Iconic Looks appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Born Olabisi Anuoluwapo Esther, Labisi is a talented vocalist known for her soulful voice and unique fusion of indigenous Yoruba sounds with contemporary gospel music. “Ifeoluwa,” her highly anticipated debut album, follows the success of her critically acclaimed EP, “Joy Has Come.” This collection of 11 heartfelt tracks invites listeners on a journey of faith, celebrating God’s enduring love, faithfulness, and the transformative power of worship.

Produced by a talented team including Elijah Adekunle, CJ Obassey, and EeZee Tee, “Ifeoluwa” showcases Labisi’s musical artistry. Each track on the album seamlessly blends traditional and modern sounds, resulting in a powerful and resonant musical experience that delivers messages of hope, restoration, and unshakable faith.

To further enhance the listening experience, To complement the album release, Labisi has released a music video for “Ire De,” one of the standout tracks from “Ifeoluwa.” Filmed in Lagos, Nigeria, the video brings the song to life, which celebrates divine blessings and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Watch Ire De Here

Since joining EeZee Conceptz Global in 2023, Labisi has quickly gained recognition as a rising star in the gospel music scene. The release of “Ifeoluwa,” her debut album, is expected to further elevate her career.

Join Labisi on her journey by streaming, sharing, and engaging with “Ifeoluwa”. Stay connected with exclusive behind-the-scenes content, live sessions, and more through her official pages on Instagram and Facebook

You can stream the album here

For media inquiries, please contact Adedayo Aladaba (ecladedayo@eezeeconceptz.org, +2348175905403) or Bolaji Ajayi (thebuzzwarehaus@gmail.com, +2347069650707).

Sponsored Content

The post EeZee Conceptz Global Unveils Labisi’s Soulful Debut Album ‘Ifeoluwa’ appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Flytime Promotions

The event welcomed an inspiring roster of industry heavyweights and influential female music executives and powerhouses in the creative world, including Grace Ladoja, Sasha P, DJ Lambo, Elizabeth Sobowale, manager to Adekunle Gold; Ronami Ogulu, manager to Burna Boy; Lily Greenroom, tour manager to Asa; Tshwanelo Maredi, Apple Music, Rima Tahini, Mavin Global, Korede Ikazoboh, Virgin Music Nigeria, Omolola Ige; Sony Music West Africa and more. Also in attendance were Feyikemi Bankole; Spotify, Irene Agbontaen; United Talent Agency, Sheila Okonji-Ashinze; music radio personality, Ayomide Dokunmu; Femme Africa, Thokozile Dlamini-Eze; creative producer, and Titilope Adesanya; EMPIRE Africa representing Asake, Fireboy, BNXN and more.

In a statement reflecting on the event, Keke Hammond emphasised the importance of fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for women in the industry.

“The role of women in music is often overlooked, but the impact of our contributions is undeniable. It’s crucial that we continue to empower and uplift one another to ensure the next generation has the same opportunities we’ve fought for. This luncheon was a celebration not just of what we’ve achieved but of the endless possibilities ahead.”

Flytime Promotions, known for its flagship event, Rhythm Unplugged and Flytime Fest, has long been a champion for both emerging and established African artists, breaking talent like Tems, Davido, and Wizkid, and welcoming global stars such as Megan Thee Stallion, Ja Rule, and Ashanti to the country. The company’s two-decade legacy continues to highlight its commitment to the global expansion of African music.

The Women in Music Luncheon served as a platform for candid conversations on the challenges and triumphs of women in the entertainment industry to further opportunities for mentorship and collaboration.

For photos and highlights from the 2024 Flytime Women in Music Luncheon, see HERE

BellaNaija is a Media Partner for Flytime Promotions

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The sound of snipping is audible some way before reaching the fishing settlement of Tezo. It’s an unfamiliar sound in a community usually full of household hustle-bustle interrupted only by the occasional boda-boda (motorbike taxi) or the honking of far-off traffic. It’s extra-loud because the the material being cut is not cloth, but plastic.

The snipping comes from a large pair of scissors in the hands of Raymond Katana, a local artisan, as he wields them to expertly reshape plastic bottles.

“Cutting the plastic into shapes is just the start,” explained Raymond as he used the scissors to fashion flower petals and leaves from discarded bottles. The snipping of bottles is just one step in an elaborate process, he explained.

“The most labour-intensive step is making the vase out of cement, which, depending on the weather, can take a long time to dry. Before adding the cut plastic flowers and bottles to the finished sculpture, I normally let it sit for at least a day,” he continued, seated outside his home in the fishing community situated in Kenya’s coastal region of Kilifi.

Kilifi is known for its tranquil beaches, coral reefs, and pleasant climate. However, the scenic area has been grappling with a significant plastic waste issue that threatens its environment.

Kenya consumes more than 500 million bottles a day, part of a 500 billion bottles a year global problem, according to UK organisation Greenmatch.

Kilifi is no different. Some 56 kilometres north of Mombasa, the county is host to a number of fishing settlements. One of these is Tezo, a peaceful ward where locals cultivate crops to make a living. This is where Raymond, 35, started his flower trade in 2021 after noticing how bad the plastic waste issue had become.

Everywhere he looked, there was plastic litter — bottles, bags, and other trash left unattended with no one to pick them up or dispose of them properly, he explained. But back then, even with his new awareness, it would never have occurred to him that he would end up dedicating his life to repurposing old bottles.

“If someone had asked me about plastics or flowers on a deeper level back then, I wouldn’t have had the slightest idea what to say.”

Raymond had taken on several jobs between 2015 and 2020 in search of one that worked for him. He had toyed with plastic art but abandoned the project since it was not profitable at the time. He then moved on to jobs as a mechanic and a security guard, but neither worked out for him.

“I tried so many jobs, including fishing, but nothing seemed to work,” he said.

Raymond decided to return to his earlier endeavour of turning plastic into art, determined this time to make a difference. Having learned from past attempts, he resolved to do better and create something more meaningful and long-lasting.

“I began visiting local hotels, restaurants, and people’s doorsteps to gather as many plastic bottles as I could. People started to realise what I was doing over time,” he said.

Over time, people began making things easier for him by bringing discarded plastic right to his yard. He also earned a new nickname: The Plastic Man.

He started off working on a very small scale because he didn’t have the right instruments to make plastic flowers. Despite this, he found it easy to design his masterpieces because of his innate artistic talent. The flowers that grew all around him served as his inspiration, and he tried to capture their appearance in his artwork.

It was not an easy or quick process, however.

“It would take me at least three days to finish a piece because there are so many steps involved,” he stated.

After the plastics are gathered, the next step inRaymond’s method is choosing the right plastics from his stash near his house. The colour of the plastics doesn’t matter because he paints all of his flowers in beautiful, eye-catching hues. After sorting, he gives them a good wash.

Katana emphasises the importance of properly cleaning plastics, given the conditions under which they are collected.

He spends a considerable amount of time making sure they are clean and prepared for conversion into new creations.

“I don’t want them to look the same way I found them.”

Tools like wires, scissors, staplers, paints, and glue are used in this step of the process to assist him to turn the materials into imaginative and useful objects.

Raymond meticulously cuts the cleaned plastic into elaborate shapes in his makeshift factory and connects them with wire, slowly bringing his creations to life.

The final pieces show a definite vision and expertise, even though it may appear that he is chopping randomly.

After the cement vases are dry, Raymond delivers his work to nearby eateries, charging them a fee.

He frequently encounters doubt and criticism, he said. The fact that the products are composed of recycled plastic is not widely accepted. Others even think that since he gathers the plastic, the pieces ought to be distributed for free.

“I have to explain the entire process in some places because people think it’s garbage and shouldn’t be sold,” Katana said.

“It’s not always simple to get them to change their minds, even when I explain the work required to clean, repurpose, and reuse the plastic,” he said.

On the plus side, a number of establishments in Tezo have begun embracing Raymond’s art and have used his plastic flowers to give their interior design a distinctive look. John Nasyali, who works as a chef at Loshac Restaurant, met Raymond when he was advertising his flowers. Seeing these, John persuaded his boss to purchase ten pieces — which shocked Raymond.

“The location truly stands out thanks to these flowers. I am always pleased to inform customers that they are made of plastic when they inquire about the material used. I just need to use a piece of cloth to wipe them clean,” John said.

Residents in Tezo have also bought Raymond’s plastic flowers to adorn their houses. Mary Kabadu, who can’t imagine going back to perishable flowers that require so much care.

“Twice a week, I used to spend between 300 and 500 shillings on natural flowers. But I haven’t turned back since I first saw Katana’s masterpieces. They endure a lifetime and give my house a lovely appearance,” Mary said.

Jimmy Kahindi, an environmentalist with the county government, is also thrilled with the initiative.

“As a county government, we have changed how we are trying to manage our waste by involving community members through community groups through the circular economy scheme… so as a county government we are supporting community groups to take different initiatives,” Jimmy said.

While the income from the flowers remains modest, Raymond has been able to use his artistic abilities to educate some of his children.

“My son has just finished high school. My two kids in form 2 and 3 are also cared for, and I am confident they will not be disappointed.”

Katana’s efforts may be modes, but they have had a big influence on Tezo, and Raymond intends to continue with his efforts.

“I think I’ll be able to train more young people in my area, boost output, and reach many more regions in the years to come,” he said.

Story credit: Velma Pamela bird story agency

The post In Coastal Kenya, Raymond Katana Turns Plastic Waste into Lasting Beauty appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Cooking With Ijey’s Nigerian fish roll buns recipe offers a simple way to enjoy this beloved snack. The sardine filling is full of flavour, combining ingredients like chopped onions, curry powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, chicken bouillon, and blended pepper, creating a rich, savoury mix that pairs perfectly with the soft, fluffy dough.

The dough, made with warm milk, flour, yeast, sugar, and vegetable oil, provides a light, airy base that complements the filling. The method is easy to follow, ensuring that everyone can confidently prepare these fish roll buns.

This recipe is a great option for snacks or as part of a meal.

Check out the full recipe below:

The post Follow Cooking With Ijey’s Guide to Making Soft and Fluffy Fish Roll Buns appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

Enter the pixie cut: a chic, trendy, and less drastic option that’s perfect for testing the waters.

Ayra Star

Why a Pixie Cut is the Perfect First Step

A pixie cut is essentially a middle ground between your current hairstyle and the big chop. It’s short enough to give you that transformative feeling, but still versatile enough to style in multiple ways. 

Most importantly, it’s reversible. If you decide the super-short look isn’t for you, growing out a pixie cut is far less intimidating than starting over from a big chop. Plus, you can even leave your hair in and get a pixie wig or extensions. 

 

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Before we head out, let’s talk about how flattering pixie cuts are. With their ability to highlight your facial structure—cheekbones, jawline, and all—pixie cuts are a great way to experiment with a bold new look.

Trend Alert: Pixie Cuts Are Having a Moment

All the it-girls and celebs are embracing the pixie cut. From Ayra Starr’s edgy textured pixie to Kim Oprah’s sleek and chic version, the cut is undeniably on-trend. 

Kim Oprah

Ayra Star

Benefits of a Pixie Cut

1. Low Maintenance: Short hair means less time styling and fewer products, which can be a lifesaver if you’re always on the go.
2. Face-Framing Perfection: A pixie cut draws attention to your facial features and can even make your face appear more defined.
3. Room to Experiment: It’s a great way to try new hair colours or textures without a long-term commitment.
4. Boosts Confidence: There’s something undeniably empowering about rocking a short hairstyle. It’s bold, unapologetic, and completely you.

Maya Chambers

How to Decide if a Pixie Cut is Right for You

If you’re on the fence, consider these questions:

• Are you looking for a low-maintenance yet stylish look?
• Do you want to experiment with shorter hair without committing to a big chop?
• Are you ready to embrace a bold, face-framing hairstyle?

If you answered yes to any of these, the pixie cut might just be the perfect hairstyle for your next salon visit.

Here’s to new beginnings in 2025

Visit www.bellanaijastyle.com to stay up to date with the latest in African fashion and lifestyle

The post Considering a Big Chop? Try a Pixie Cut First appeared first on BellaNaija - Showcasing Africa to the world. Read today!.

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Temi Otedola usually keeps things private, but this time, she took to Instagram to reflect on her 10-year journey in the creative industry. Ten years ago, at just 17, she launched jtofashion.com, a passion project she started while juggling university classes and photoshoots.

Fast forward to today, and Temi’s journey has been nothing short of transformative. From fashion blogging to acting, singing, creative direction, and even podcasting, she’s tried it all. But as she reflected, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing.

There was also so much trial and error in my journey: failed projects, imposter syndrome, no’s, and many bad outfits.

Still, she pushed through. And now, she’s proud—not just of the achievements, but of the resilience and consistency it took to get here.

I wish I could hug that girl and tell her all the hard work would pay off. I find it really hard to be proud of my accomplishments because often careers in online media are seen as only glamorous. Nobody but you sees the 10,000 hours of work behind the scenes.

But I am DAMN proud of myself. I never usually give myself the credit, but this first week of 2025, I’ve been a bit nostalgic. I’ve looked back over the countless photoshoots, rehearsals, emails, meetings, pitches, auditions, 5am call times, and missed opportunities. I’m proud of myself for never giving up on my dreams and staying consistent throughout my 20s.

Thanks goes to God. I also couldn’t have done this without all of you guys—my family, partner, team, friends, mentors, teachers, brands, collaborators, and everyone who has supported my dreams so far.

From starting out in the Nigerian creative scene to representing Africa on a global stage, Temi has broken barriers, including becoming the first African digital ambassador for L’Oréal Paris.

See her full post below:

 

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Some songs don’t just age — they only get better with time. Nigerian reggae legends and former bandmates in “The Jastix,” Majek Fashek and Ras Kimono, certainly made those kinds of tracks. “Send Down The Rain,” “Gimme Like Sugar,” and more. These aren’t just songs; they’re memories that still resonate today.

Whether you’re here for the nostalgia or discovering these classics for the first time, we’ve got a collection of iconic tracks that take you back to a time when reggae wasn’t just music, but a movement.

Hit play below and relive those moments

“So long” – Majek Fashek

“Rhumba Stylee” – Ras Kimono

“Send Down The Rain” – Majek Fashek

“Under Pressure II” – Ras Kimono

“Holy Spirit” – Majek Fashek

“Natty Get Jail” –  Ras Kimono

“Little Patience” – Majek Fashek

“Gimme Likkie Sugar” – Ras Kimono

“Religion is Politics” – Majek Fashek

“Kimono Dem Want” – Ras Kimono

See more here:

 

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Photo credit: ZoeSaldaña/Instagram

Last night, the 82nd Annual Golden Globe Awards lit up the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, celebrating the best in film and television from the past year. With Nikki Glaser making history as the first woman to solo host the Globes, and a star-studded lineup of presenters like Viola Davis and Dwayne Johnson, the night was as glamorous as it was memorable.

“The Brutalist” received multiple nominations and won several top honours, with Adrien Brody securing his first Golden Globe for his leading role. Brady Corbet, who co-wrote and directed the film, won best director. The film also claimed the award for best drama motion picture.

In the musical or comedy categories, Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Pérez” earned multiple nominations and won best musical or comedy motion picture and best original song. Zoe Saldaña, who starred in the film alongside Selena Gomez, won the award for best actress in a supporting role in a motion picture.

Below is the full list of winners and nominees from the 2025 Golden Globe Awards:

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in any Motion Picture

• Zoe Saldaña, “Emilia Pérez” — Winner
• Ariana Grande, “Wicked”
• Selena Gomez, “Emilia Pérez”
• Felicity Jones, “The Brutalist”
• Margaret Qualley, “The Substance”
• Isabella Rossellini, “Conclave”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy

• Jean Smart, “Hacks” — Winner
• Kristen Bell, “Nobody Wants This”
• Quinta Brunson, “Abbott Elementary”
• Ayo Edebiri, “The Bear”
• Selena Gomez, “Only Murders in the Building”
• Kathryn Hahn, “Agatha All Along”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Any Motion Picture

• Kieran Culkin, “A Real Pain” — Winner
• Yura Borisov, “Anora”
• Edward Norton, “A Complete Unknown”
• Guy Pearce, “The Brutalist”
• Jeremy Strong, “The Apprentice”
• Denzel Washington, “Gladiator II”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Drama

• Hiroyuki Sanada, “Shōgun” — Winner
• Donald Glover, “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”
• Jake Gyllenhaal, “Presumed Innocent”
• Gary Oldman, “Slow Horses”
• Eddie Redmayne, “The Day of the Jackal”
• Billy Bob Thornton, “Landman”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Television Series

• Jessica Gunning, “Baby Reindeer” — Winner
• Liza Colon-Zayas, “The Bear”
• Hannah Einbinder, “Hacks”
• Dakota Fanning, “Ripley”
• Allison Janney, “The Diplomat”
• Kali Reis, “True Detective: Night Country”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Television Series

• Tadanobu Asano, “Shōgun” — Winner
• Javier Bardem, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”
• Harrison Ford, “Shrinking”
• Jack Lowden, “Slow Horses”
• Diego Luna, “La Maquina”
• Ebon Moss-Bachrach, “The Bear”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series — Musical or Comedy

• Jeremy Allen White, “The Bear” — Winner
• Adam Brody, “Nobody Wants This”
• Ted Danson, “A Man on the Inside”
• Steve Martin, “Only Murders in the Building”
• Martin Short, “Only Murders in the Building”
• Jason Segel, “Shrinking”

Best Screenplay — Motion Picture

• Peter Straughan, “Conclave” — Winner
• Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”
• Sean Baker, “Anora”
• Brady Corbet, Mona Fastvold, “The Brutalist”
• Jesse Eisenberg, “A Real Pain”
• Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”

Best Performance in Stand-Up Comedy on Television

• Ali Wong, “Single Lady” — Winner
• Jamie Foxx, “What Had Happened Was”
• Nikki Glaser, “Someday You’ll Die”
• Seth Meyers, “Dad Man Walking”
• Adam Sandler, “Love You”
• Ramy Youssef, “More Feelings”

Best Motion Picture — Non-English Language

• “Emilia Pérez” — Winner
• “All We Imagine as Light”
• “The Girl with the Needle”
• “I’m Still Here”
• “The Seed of the Sacred Fig”
• “Vermiglio”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

• Colin Farrell, “The Penguin” — Winner
• Richard Gadd, “Baby Reindeer”
• Kevin Kline, “Disclaimer”
• Cooper Koch, “Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story”
• Ewan McGregor, “A Gentleman in Moscow”
• Andrew Scott, “Ripley”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

• Jodie Foster, “True Detective: Night Country” — Winner
• Cate Blanchett, “Disclaimer”
• Cristin Milioti, “The Penguin”
• Sofia Vergara, “Griselda”
• Naomi Watts, “Feud: Capote vs. The swans”
• Kate Winslet, “The Regime”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy

• Demi Moore, “The Substance” — Winner
• Amy Adams, “Nightbitch”
• Cynthia Erivo, “Wicked”
• Karla Sofía Gascón, “Emilia Pérez”
• Zendaya, “Challengers”
• Mikey Madison, “Anora”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy

• Sebastian Stan, “A Different Man” — Winner
• Jesse Eisenberg, “A Real Pain”
• Hugh Grant, “Heretic”
• Gabriel LaBelle, “Saturday Night”
• Jesse Plemons, “Kinds of Kindness”
• Glen Powell, “Hit Man”

Best Motion Picture — Animated

• “Flow” — Winner
• “Inside Out 2”
• “Memoir of a Snail”
• “Moana 2”
• “Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl”
• “The Wild Robot”

Best Director — Motion Picture

• Brady Corbet, “The Brutalist“ — Winner
• Jacques Audiard, “Emilia Pérez”
• Sean Baker, “Anora”
• Edward Berger, “Conclave”
• Coralie Fargeat, “The Substance”
• Payal Kapadia, “All We Imagine as Light”

Best Original Score — Motion Picture

• Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross, “Challengers“ — Winner
• Volker Bertelmann, “Conclave”
• Daniel Blumberg, “The Brutalist”
• Kris Bowers, “The Wild Robot”
• Clément Ducol, Camille, “Emilia Pérez”
• Hans Zimmer, “Dune: Part Two”

Best Original Song — Motion Picture

• “El Mal,” by Clément Ducol, Camille and Jacques Audiard (from “Emilia Pérez”) — Winner
• “Beautiful That Way,” by Miley Cyrus, Lykke Li and Andrew Wyatt (from “The Last Showgirl”)
• “Compress/Repress,” by Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross & Luca Guadagnino (from “Challengers”)
• “Forbidden Road,” by Robbie Williams, Freddy Wexler & Sacha Skarbek (“Better Man”)
• “Kiss The Sky,” by Delacey, Jordan Johnson, Stefan Johnson, Maren Morris, Michael Pollack & Ali Tamposi (from “The Wild Robot”)
• “Mi Camino,” by Clément Ducol and Camille (from “Emilia Pérez”)

Cinematic and Box Office Achievement

• “Wicked” — Winner
• “Alien: Romulus”
• “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice”
• “Deadpool & Wolverine”
• “Gladiator II”
• “Inside Out 2”
• “Twisters”
• “The Wild Robot”

Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series or Motion Picture Made for Television

• “Baby Reindeer” — Winner
• “Disclaimer”
• “Monsters: The Lyle and Eric Menendez Story”
• “The Penguin”
• “Ripley”
• “True Detective: Night Country”

Best Television Series — Comedy Or Musical

• “Hacks” — Winner
• “Abbott Elementary”
• “The Bear”
• “The Gentlemen”
• “Nobody Wants This”
• “Only Murders in the Building”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series — Drama

• Anna Sawai, “Shōgun” — Winner
• Kathy Bates, “Matlock”
• Emma D’Arcy, “House of the Dragon”
• Maya Erskine, “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”
• Keira Knightley, “Black Doves”
• Keri Russell, “The Diplomat”

Best Television Series — Drama

• “Shōgun” — Winner
• “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”
• “The Diplomat”
• “Squid Game”
• “Slow Horses”
• “The Day of the Jackal”

Best Performance by an Actress in a Motion Picture — Drama

• Fernanda Torres, “I’m Still Here” — Winner
• Pamela Anderson, “The Last Showgirl”
• Angelina Jolie, “Maria”
• Nicole Kidman, “Babygirl”
• Tilda Swinton, “The Room Next Door”
• Kate Winslet, “Lee”

Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture — Drama

• Adrien Brody, “The Brutalist” — Winner
• Timothée Chalamet, “A Complete Unknown”
• Daniel Craig, “Queer”
• Colman Domingo, “Sing Sing”
• Ralph Fiennes, “Conclave”
• Sebastian Stan, “The Apprentice”

Best Motion Picture — Drama

• “The Brutalist“ — Winner
• “A Complete Unknown”
• “Conclave”
• “Dune: Part Two”
• “Nickel Boys”
• “September 5”

Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy

• “Emilia Pérez” — Winner
• “Anora”
• “Challengers”
• “A Real Pain”
• “The Substance”
• “Wicked”

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Today, we get to relive the magical moments from their white wedding ceremony, and it is nothing short of enchanting! Adeola looked stunning in her whimsical dress, while Goodness made a dashing groom. From the elegant decor to the heartfelt vows and joyful celebrations, every detail was a testament to the beauty of their love. Their wedding photos are so breathtaking and would leave you in awe!

Enjoy their white wedding photos below and see their love story here:

Their love story as shared by Goodness:

In October 2021, l and Adeola were introduced to each other by a good friend of mine who invited me to a church program. Our first encounter was pleasant but unremarkable; we exchanged greetings, made small talk, and didn’t give each other much thought afterwards. We went about our lives, each seeing the other as a friendly face but not much more. As time passed, Adeola and I continued to cross paths at church and in our shared social circles. In 2022, our interactions grew more frequent, and we discovered that we shared a deeper connection than we had initially realized. Our casual acquaintance blossomed into a genuine friendship as we found comfort, understanding, and laughter in each other’s presence. Later in the same year, it felt natural to take the next step, and we decided to start a relationship.

For a few months, we enjoyed the excitement of dating, sharing new experiences, and growing closer. However, in October of that same year, challenges emerged, and we began to feel that maybe we were better suited apart. We went our separate ways, believing it was time to move on. In the months that followed, we attempted to fill the gap by seeing other people. Yet, something was missing, and neither of us could shake the feeling that our connection had been unique. Despite the distance, we continued to think of each other, and no one else seemed to compare. After a couple of months in 2023, we both realized that we wanted to be back in each other’s lives, even if just as friends. We reconnected, cautiously at first, both feeling a mixture of excitement and nostalgia.

Our friendship rekindled easily, and it was as though we had never been apart. This time, however, our bond felt different. There was a warmth and a depth that hadn’t been there before–a sense of peace and purpose that was unmistakable. Later in the same year we found ourselves talking late into the night, reflecting on how our journey had unfolded and how God seemed to keep bringing us back to one another. In that moment, we knew we were meant to be together. Our path had not been straightforward, but every step had drawn us closer, preparing us for a life we could only imagine with each other. Our love story was never about the dramatic highs or grand gestures; it was about quiet faith and an unwavering belief that we were meant to walk through life together. And as we looked toward the future, we knew we would never again question that.

Credits

Bride @_deola.a
Groom @tega_imoni
Planner @2706events
Bridal Stylist @styledbyzakarie | @thestyleinfidel
Makeup @tolufelix_mua
Hair Stylist @tasalahq
Groom Stylist @thestyleinfidel @groomsoftheinfidel
Photography @emmanuellaphotosgallery
Videography @kolefilms

For more weddings, love stories, pre-weddings, and wedding planning tips & inspo,

visit www.bellanaijawedbellanaijaweddings.com

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Photo Credit: Cobhams Asuquo/Instagram

Ace musician, producer, and songwriter Cobhams Asuquo is celebrating his 44th birthday with a bold and stylish photoshoot.

In the photos, Cobhams wears a striking long black robe with colourful fringes accentuating the hemline, wrist cuffs, and shoulders. The outfit gives off a regal, cinematic vibe, paired perfectly with a black hat, dark sunglasses, and silver jewelry to complete the look.

The mastermind behind the soundtracks for “Everybody Loves Jenifa” and the Christmas rom-com “Christmas in Lagos” added a playful touch to his post, captioning the photos, “Year wey go sweet na January 6 we dey know. Happy birthday to me.”

Check out his statement-making birthday photos below

 

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From her early days as a child actor to becoming a director, Abisola is carving a niche for herself in the competitive world of filmmaking. Known for her recent production The Fadugbas, she shares insights into her journey, her challenges as a diasporic filmmaker, and what keeps her going.

1. What drew you to filmmaking?
I have always regarded myself as a storyteller. I have always loved telling stories, whether it’s through blogging, writing, or speaking. Before filmmaking, I authored three amazing books that bordered on migration, family, newlyweds, and childbearing. I discovered filmmaking as another avenue to tell transformative stories, it’s a different medium, but it has the power to touch people in a unique way.

2. Tell us about The Fadugbas, what inspired it?
Having first-hand experience as an immigrant, I have been able to witness the struggles that many immigrant couples go through, especially when adjusting to life abroad. The Fadugbas was born from my desire to educate, to help maintain peace and love in relationships, but in an engaging and relatable way.

Being in Canada for over seven years, I’ve seen marriages break down due to cultural shifts and the strain of adapting to new surroundings. I wanted to explore how couples can work through those challenges and address them before they result in a breakup.

3. Before The Fadugbas, did you have a film background?
“Oh yes! I started off as a child actor at the age of 10, featuring in my first film. After that, I continued acting in church plays before moving up to lead Covenant University’s Theatre Group as their Director. I also had a similar position during Youth service at the National Christian Corpers’ Fellowship (NCCF).

Later, I honed my skills by taking acting classes at Radiance Toronto. Interestingly, the inspiration for my first book came while attending the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), I was part of the Filmstars project in Toronto. My first short film, Japa Wahala, came out in 2023 and that was an incredible learning experience.

4. What do you think makes a good movie?
A good movie is driven by a strong and relatable story. It all comes down to the narrative. But, it’s also about the right cast and crew that understand the vision of the story and are committed to delivering accurately.

You can have the perfect story, but without the right actors to bring it to life, it might not convey the emotions and depth that the story deserves.

5. What are some challenges you faced producing The Fadugbas?
As a new filmmaker, I faced quite a few challenges. I had to wear my hat as a project manager to navigate one of the biggest hurdles in the production which included managing the different phases of the projects, logistics and resources, cast and crew scattered across different locations while trying to maintain the authenticity of the story. Budgeting is always a challenge, especially for independent filmmakers, and getting the right team together for a project is not always easy but perseverance and passion helped me push through.

6. What sort of movies would you like to work on but haven’t had the opportunity yet?
There are many genres I would love to explore. I’m particularly interested in historical dramas and documentaries that explore African heritage, as well as films that tackle social issues like immigration, love and family.

7. What inspires you as a person?
My main source of inspiration is God. Then people I meet, the stories I hear, and the resilience of communities. I’m also inspired by the ability to make a positive impact through storytelling, whether it’s through a film, a book, or an article. I want my work to spur reflection and spark change.

8. Tell us about Abisola, what other things do you do apart from filmmaking?
Besides filmmaking, I am also a certified project manager and a social entrepreneur. I’ve published three books and have been writing & creating content for over 5 years now. My first book is Travelling Out which explores stories of immigrants, a guide for new migrants.

Afterwards, I authored 365 Days Married and also Journey to Motherhood. As a social entrepreneur, I founded The Hatching Lady in 2017, a platform created to empower youths and women from the ages of 18-35 years old. Through it, we have hosted conferences, trainings, and charity outreaches in Nigeria & Canada. I am passionate about helping others tell their stories and I enjoy mentoring young people. I’m also a bit of a foodie, so when I’m not working on a film project, I like to try out the different cuisines in my community.

9. What are some things that make you happy?
Spending time with my family, connecting with fellow creatives, and seeing my work resonate with people. There’s nothing more rewarding than knowing that your film has made a difference, no matter how small. Knowing I am also working in line with God’s perfect will makes me really happy. Also, I love good food and good movies!

10. What’s your style?
My style is rooted in authenticity and emotional depth. I try to create content that feels real and speaks to the human experience. I don’t like to shy away from difficult topics, but I aim to present them in a way that is engaging and relatable. I want the audience to feel something, whether it’s joy, sorrow, or reflection.

11. Any words for people reading this?
Never underestimate the power of your story. Every individual has something unique to offer. If you have a passion, don’t let anything stop you. Keep pushing forward, even when the challenges seem impossible. And remember, sometimes the hardest paths lead to the most beautiful destinations.

12. Would you like to give a shout-out to some people who contributed to the success of The Fadugbas?
Absolutely! To the best cast and crew that made this production happen in Canada, thank you so much for trusting me with your time and skills. Major shout out to Olutokun Emmanuel – our super fantastic DOP, Olowofela Johnson, the incredibly talented actor who played – Fadugba, Semilloore Atewelogun our super amazing Therapist, Tolu Adekunle and Fadekemi E.O.J our awesome camera crew members, Bolaji Opakunbi our editor.

Finally, I would like to appreciate my beautiful family, my mum, dad, sisters, brothers, my amazing husband and my son. The miracle of his birth is like air to my wings that keeps me dreaming and wanting me to live fully and do the things God has written about me.

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2024 was definitely a year and a half. For Nigeria and Nigerians, it followed the overarching theme of being a country of contradictions – even though those polarisations have been further exacerbated largely by abominable leadership. On a lighter note, I know someone who said he didn’t believe in God. I was shocked to see him share his Spotify Wrapped for 2024 and Nathaniel Bassey topped the list of his most listened to music artists – e get the way the country touch am, my guy unlock Yeshua Hamashiach. Mine was no different, big shout to Jehovah El Aguero – pulling that clutch in the fourth as always. Anyway, here are some thoughts you may find useful during the year. I curated some major keys from my journal and here are selected ones I wish to expand on.

Double Down On Your Identity

One of the things you have to own is who you are, what you represent and how you move. This sounds like nothing but the more you come into the arena of your destiny, you will realise something like Russell Crowe in the original Gladiator film that your opps are not just those that physically fight you but also the voices in your head. Paul gives a powerful piece of advice to his protégé: “Do not let anyone treat you as if you are unimportant because you are young.” When I used to read this, it never dawned on me until recently that I could be part of that “anyone” – in other words, we could inadvertently self-sabotage our own dreams. Thankfully, over the years, I have developed quite a tough skin – I can shut down the noise and reinforce my convictions. You should listen to Gaisebaba on that insightful podcast with Femi Lazarus, some of you don’t fix traditional boxes and if you’re waiting for validation from a status quo that won’t acknowledge you – you will wait for a very long time. Some people love dead heroes, they only give flowers to people on the ground.

A lot of the challenges we face today can simply be traced to an identity crisis. People will cast aspersions on your name, and undermine you by suggesting you are a fraud or that the feat you achieved was a fluke. Don’t let anyone under the guise of being your mentor end up being your tormentor. To borrow Eleanor Roosevelt’s words, “Don’t let anyone make you feel inferior without your consent”. It usually doesn’t mean much when such talk comes from random folks but when it comes from those you imagine should know better, it will hurt. Don’t follow people blindly, yes, including yours truly. The best of us are still human, everyone has their own biases and agendas. For example, if someone you respect becomes a brand ambassador for sugar, don’t start consuming sugar as a diabetic simply because you want to show how loyal you are – that’s being stupid. Use your akonuche and pursue your own strategic interests.

Systems Over Goals, Discipline Over Motivation, Team Over Talent

Every New Year, most people ceremonially set new goals for the year to be achieved on the most significant scale possible – nothing is wrong with that. However, a new year comes along every 365 days – you may not have the luxury of such a period to make drastic changes to your life. What that means is that you need a system that overlaps one goal into the next or another. For example, if your goal for this year is to buy a car, that should be an outcome. One system you can set up to ensure that outcome is a sales or revenue system – not necessarily a savings or car acquisition fund. The natural consequence of a successful sales system is that you will have the required funds to buy a car and even other things that you may consider important to you.

Similar to this is motivation: motivation is great but I will be lying to you that it is sufficient to reach your objectives. There will be days when you don’t feel like doing anything; discipline is the difference between how you respond to that feeling and the person next door who chooses to indulge in inertia. If I only write when I am in a great mood, I will end up a failure because as much as I enjoy writing – I don’t always feel like opening up my laptop and scribbling my thoughts. It therefore means that I cannot depend on aspire-to-Maguire vibes to get things done because maturity means mastering how to maintain momentum. Adults are not necessarily people who have grown older but people who have developed the discipline to do things that might appear boring but are productive.

It’s great to master your skills but 2025 is not the year to brag about it because as we have seen, people who are not half as talented as you are securing the bag. Your team are your enablers, refiners, amplifiers and monetisers. It doesn’t necessarily mean you must hire a slew of staff members, it just means that after you successfully identify what your minimum viable product is and you have developed it – it’s time you learn how to deploy it. Your social media pages should be a part of your marketing team, YouTube can be part research and development team, a record label or talent management firm can be a part of your monetisation team – friends and family can be a part of your advisory team for starters. However, when you come into the big league, you hire experts and professionals. Alone you can go fast but with an effective team, you can go further – you need teamwork to make the dream work.

Bet On Yourself

A lot of people are waking up to the huge popularity of podcasts and OTT platforms over legacy media. Thankfully, I have been ahead of the curve, particularly since the pandemic. There is one guy I will gladly recommend, Patrick Bet-David, the host of the PBD Podcast. I love listening to smart people talk and he intermittently drops odd pearls. There are four points he mentioned one time that can help you take your game to the next level; these are traits the 1% of the 1% who dominate their spheres of influence deploy:

• Out-Work: It’s hard to defeat a person who is willing to outwork everybody else. It’s not a guarantee of success but the more a person is willing to take chances, the higher the probability of their winning. You must be willing to do what the 99% aren’t ready to do; put in a shift and a half. If your contemporaries are putting out content twice a week, you can decide to make yours five times a week. Let people know that you are the gold standard on what it means to be a workhorse.

• Out-Improve: It’s hard to defeat a person who is constantly evolving, innovating and developing new paradigms of doing something. The CEO of one famous phone manufacturer had this to say after it lost its dominant market share to new players and was acquired by another company, “We didn’t do anything wrong, but somehow, we lost”. They got comfortable with their products simply being durable when the market was willing to sacrifice a little bit of durability for a product that had multiple utilities and complex functions. Another word for improvement is innovation.

• Out-Strategise: It’s hard to defeat a person who can think ahead of the curve, knows what chess moves to make and understands how to plot a counter-offensive. It’s like a protagonist in most movies, after a while his or her opps will simply give up because the main character somehow always finds a way to manoeuvre or navigate the booby traps. Being a strategist doesn’t in any way mean that you will not get blindsided here and there but it shows to anyone and anything coming against you that you will not just lie down and let them run over you.

• Out-Last: It’s hard to defeat a person who is playing the long game. Some organisations are still in existence today after many decades simply because they weren’t thinking of only short-term wins. That’s why one of the dumbest things a start-up can do is engage in price wars with a legacy business; it is better you out-innovate them because owing to their economies of scale, they can absorb huge interim shocks to their bottom line. The same applies to personal circumstances; sometimes the storm is not yours to fix – it’s yours to survive. Bonus: history is always written by those who survived. If you want to control your narrative, just outlast everything and everyone who is out to stop you.

The Excellence Of Execution

Yes, ideas rule the world but it is also true that ideas are a dime a dozen. Think of execution in terms of photographic resolution or cinematographic definition, the same picture can either be low resolution or high resolution – the difference is a combination of the grade of the camera itself and the skill of the photographer. One of the many reasons the English Premier League is dubbed “the most exciting league in the world” is owing to the excellence of its production. The storytelling, commentary, production value and public relations when combined with the football itself make the league stand out. Bidemi Olaoba is a great recording artiste but the high-resolution nature of his live performances stands him out. The examples are endless.

It’s really a roundabout way of saying you should be the best at whatever you do because excellence is a universal language. Be so good at what you do that your name comes up in important conversations. Someone I respect so much once told me he enjoys my political commentary and asked if I ever have intentions of running for public office, I told him I am just being an active citizen – I have such desires. Another person also said she loves my commentary on faith, she was also shocked when I told her I have no intentions of starting ‘anything’ along those lines. My point is this, excellence is your way of communicating to people that you can operate at a much higher level if the opportunity presents itself. The first time I ever heard the phrase, “the excellence of execution” was from WWE Hall of Famer, Bret ‘The Hitman’ Hart. He described himself as “the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be.” Now that’s an idea worth sharing.

Patriot FC

I can’t end without a note about Nigeria. The handwriting is on the wall, 2025 will be a wild year – events that will fundamentally shape our existence as a collective will occur and those in power won’t see it coming. This is not smoke and mirrors, I am laying it out in plain terms. If you know anyone in the political class; from the federal, state and local governments – tell them to do right by the people. If the rubber hits the road, the old antics won’t be enough this time. To every patriot, you must take ownership of saving Nigeria – stop outsourcing your responsibility to some influencer or popular figure. Some of our faves will sell out and become confidential human sources and assets, don’t let that surprise you. Some people have become too ashamed to defend the indefensible owing to the reputational damage that comes with it, so the new strategy is to recruit by hook or crook, those that have decent social capital for psyops and social engineering. Also, Nigeria is bigger than any one person, if salvation comes from an unlikely source or alliance – brace yourselves to discern and be open to it. Remember to put country over personality even when you are emotionally invested in certain people. Nigeria is all we have, we have to fight for it. Selah.

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Photo credit: nathanielblow/Instagram

Nathaniel Bassey is set to minister at the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Prayer Breakfast – a faith-based event held ahead of the swearing-in of President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance – on January 20, 2025.

The event, which takes place every four years before a new U.S. administration assumes office, has leaders, dignitaries, and people of faith unite in prayer and worship for the incoming government. This year, it will be held at the Waldorf Astoria Presidential Ballroom in Washington, D.C., with Reverend Merrie Turner as host.

Reflecting on the occasion, Nathaniel Bassey shared on Instagram:

Let’s raise a sound in America. And let the King of Glory come in.

Other ministers joining him include Pastor Mario Bramnick, Revivalist Rebecca Macchi, and Dr. Dominiquae Bierman.

 

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Tiwa Savage was an absolute vision in a stunning three-piece ensemble designed by TUBO. The outfit, part of TUBO’s ‘Everyday Royalty’ collection, featured a golden corset paired with a fitted, ankle-length skirt in lush green adorned with golden patterned streaks. Completing the look was a matching long kimono jacket, adding a touch of regal elegance.

To elevate the look, Tiwa accessorised with a gold purse, matching gold heels, and golden jewellery. From the crown of her head to the tips of her toes, the Afrobeats superstar embodied sophistication and glamour, glowing in every sense of the word.

The “Mega Money Mega” hitmaker truly brought the essence of royalty to life in this outfit, effortlessly showcasing her impeccable style and grace.

See more photos below

 

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Photo Credit: Viola Davis/Instagram

“This is a first award I was told that I won that made me cry,” Viola shared with USA TODAY bahead of the ceremony.  “Little Viola showed up who just never could imagine that she could evolve into this life, into this career. I just feel incredibly grateful today.”

Fellow Academy Award and Golden Globe winner Meryl Streep presented the award, a gesture Viola said added “to the magic” of the night. On stage, she delivered a captivating 16-minute speech without a teleprompter, sharing her journey from a turbulent childhood to Hollywood stardom. She reflected on how her upbringing shaped her craft and how financial necessity influenced her choice of roles in her early career.

As anticpation builds for the 82nd Golden Globes airing live later today in the evening, Viola Davis will also take the stage as a presenter, alongside Elton John, Dwayne Johnson, and Vin Diesel and more.

Sharing photos from the night on social media, Viola’s caption was as emotional as her speech:

Being an actor has always been the cosmic carrot to a much higher, deeper journey. I’ve ALWAYS been in search of connection to people but also to…..myself. I found it through artistry. It’s a sacred, magical tool that has elevated my life in every way. It’s why I fight for elevated content for people of color. I fight for characters who otherwise wouldn’t be seen. I fight. There are no words to describe this honor. Only little Viola can…..and she is squealing! She is basking in worthiness. And she feels deeply, deeply SEEN

See more moments from the event below

 

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Sweet Adjeley brings us a taste of Ghana with her recipe for authentic Ga Kenkey, a true classic. Made from fermented corn dough, kenkey is slightly sour, soft, and holds its shape perfectly when made right.

This dish is super versatile. You can enjoy it with stews, soups, or even turn it into Ice Kenkey by mashing it up with groundnuts, milk, and sugar.

The ingredients are straightforward: corn to make the dough, salt, water, and dry corn husks (or agobo) to wrap the kenkey balls.

To make it even better, she pairs her kenkey with shito sauce—a spicy mix of chili peppers, tomatoes, onions and serves it up with avocado and some fried fish on the side.

Want to see how it’s done? Watch the full recipe below:

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Hennessy Nigeria teamed up with a UK-based music community, Cultur FM, to host their guests to a great time of fun and excitement for the very first time in Lagos, Nigeria. The event kicked off with an explosive beach party on December 18th, 2024 at Yolo Island.

Sponsored by Hennessy, the event brought together the best in music, culture, and vibrant energy, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

The first day of the event attracted a host of Nigeria’s most influential creatives, including Hermes Iyele, Tiwa Pearl, Jermaine OG, and Topher, who mingled with a diverse crowd of young, energetic individuals eager to connect and celebrate.

The party was taken to new heights by the dynamic DJ duo, WannixHandi, who delivered electrifying performances that officially kicked off the “Detty December” season. As premium cocktails were served throughout the night, the atmosphere was charged with excitement as guests danced and networked the night away.

Day 1 of the 3-day event set a high bar for the upcoming days, showcasing why Hennessy is becoming a powerhouse in Lagos’ entertainment scene.

Day 2 was nothing short of amazing as CulturFM and DJ KAS brought all the vibes to Surulere spreading the fun and excitement of the festive season. It was all about community engagement as Hennessy and Cultur FM brought vibrant music and vibes from local DJs to the streets of Surulere, Lagos.

Day 3, held on December 20th at the Landmark Center, concluded the event in a spectacular fashion. The finale featured an exceptional lineup of top-tier DJs, with performances from WannixHandi, DJ E-cool, DJ Joanna B, DJ Controller, smallz the DJ and a show-stopping closing set by DJ Consequence, who brought the crowd to their feet.

The event attracted notable influencers like Miss Demz, Brown Social, and Nimiie, who added to the star-studded ambience of the night.

Hennessy once again came through as the headline sponsor by offering a personalized experience, where guests had the opportunity to create their own signature cocktails. The brand also featured a variety of picturesque and interactive booths, adding fun and excitement to the event for all attendees.

CulturFM’s debut, powered by Hennessy, demonstrated the seamless fusion of music, culture, and creative expression.

The event not only redefined Lagos nightlife but also left an unforgettable effect on the city’s entertainment calendar, making it a key moment in the “Detty December” season.

Sponsored Content

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Lois experienced one of these promptings on a fateful day, and it led her to Obinna, her soulmate. She met his parents at church, and unknown to her, she left a striking impression on them. They decided to play Cupid and came up with a matchmaking plan for their son—and it produced a truly beautiful result! Their pre-wedding shoot has chemistry written all over it and you can tell they are so smitten! Lois gives the full tea on how it all happened… you’ll sure find yourself grinning wide as you read.

Enjoy their pre-wedding shoot and love story below:

How we met
By the bride, Lois:

In April, Ghana became a special destination for Andrew’s (Obinna’s) parents as they set foot in the country for the first time. Eager to explore its culture and traditions, they immersed themselves in the vibrant community life around them. One Monday evening, they attended a mid-week Christian meeting, curious to experience a deeper sense of connection with the local community. Meanwhile, I faced a dilemma. The day had been hectic, and by the time evening approached, it seemed impossible to make it to the meeting on time.

Traffic loomed large—a potential obstacle that could easily have kept me away. For a brief moment, I considered turning back and staying home. But something deep inside urged me to go. I decided to brave the traffic, arriving at the Kingdom Hall just in time to settle into the service. Andrew’s parents were there too, seated just a few rows away. I didn’t notice them at first, nor did I realize the impact I’d already made. Midway through the meeting, I stepped out for a moment. Andrew’s parents, particularly his mother, had been observing and felt a curious pull. His father leaned over, quietly urging her to follow me and strike up a conversation. Trusting his instinct, she stepped outside to meet me.

She found me standing quietly, taking in the evening air. With warmth and grace, she introduced herself, her smile kind and genuine. We began to talk, and a simple exchange turned into a meaningful conversation. She asked about my life, my work, and my journey. I shared pieces of myself with ease, drawn to her sincerity and genuine interest. There was a connection, unspoken yet deeply felt—a shared sense of familiarity and respect. When we parted ways, I felt unsure of what it all meant. It seemed surreal, almost too significant to comprehend. Andrew’s mother on the other hand returned to her husband deeply moved. She was convinced she had met someone remarkable—someone perfect for their son.

They called Andrew later, sharing every detail with excitement and certainty. Moved by their words, Andrew made a decision that would change both our lives: he boarded a plane to Ghana just a week later. When we met, it was as if everything fell into place. We spoke for hours, the connection between us undeniable. There was an instant spark, but more than that, there was recognition—a feeling that we had found a missing piece of ourselves in each other. It was clear we were meant to be, guided by a series of chance moments and the family’s unshakeable support. What began as a near-missed meeting turned into a love story marked by serendipity, faith, and the courage to follow where the heart leads.

Credits

Photography: @klemy.owusu
Makeup: @denni_makeover
Hairstylist: @hairlusion_

For more weddings, love stories, pre-weddings, and wedding planning tips & inspo,

visit www.bellanaijawedbellanaijaweddings.com

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Yesterday afternoon, in a memorable ceremony at the East Room of the White House, President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 distinguished individuals from politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and science.

Among the honourees was legendary actor and Hollywood icon Denzel Washington. The two-time Academy Award winner, celebrated for his powerful performances in films like “Glory” and “Training Day,” was recognised for his stellar acting career and also for his impactful work as a philanthropist and minister. The Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honour, is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to American culture, society, and global leadership.

Michael J. Fox, beloved for his roles in “Back to the Future,” “Family Ties,” and “Spin City,” was also honoured for his decades-long advocacy for Parkinson’s disease research.

Other recipients included former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, U2 frontman and humanitarian Bono, renowned fashion designer Ralph Lauren, “Science Guy” Bill Nye, basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, humanitarian chef José Andrés, conservationist Jane Goodall, and international football star Lionel Messi, among others.

“Today, I had the honour of bestowing the Medal of Freedom–our nation’s highest civilian honour–on a group of extraordinary people who have given thier saved effort to shape the culture and cause of America,” President Biden remarked during the ceremony. says President Joe Biden.

Watch highlights from the event below:

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