•IWD
In celebration of the International Women’s Day, NAOMI CHIMA takes a look at female creatives who have broken different records in their careers, reports Saturday Tribune (Additional reports by The Frontier)
Agbani Darego
A model, Asenite ‘Agbani’ Darego, made history as the first African woman to win the prestigious beauty pageant—Miss World—in 2001.
The event took place at the Sun City Entertainment Centre in Sun City, South Africa, where Darego beat 93 contestants from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Prior to that landmark achievement, the model, who hails from Rivers State, had already distinguished herself by winning the ‘Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria’ pageant that same year, earning her the opportunity to represent the country on the international stage.
Following her Miss World triumph, Darego further solidified her place in the global spotlight by placing seventh in the Miss Universe competition, a remarkable feat that made her as the first Nigerian to be among the top 10 semi-finalists of the compeition.
In the course of her modelling career, she has worked with big names in the global fashion industry, such as Naomi Campbell; and renowned brands like L’Oréal.
Funke Akindele
A popular actress, filmmaker and politician, Funke Akindele, aka Jenifa, has indeed has a flourishing career.
She recently attained a significant milestone with her blockbuster movie titled, ‘A Tribe Called Judah’, becoming the first Nigerian producer to surpass the billion-naira mark in global sales.
Released on December 15, 2023, the film is currently the highest-grossing Nollywood movie of all time.
Akindele began her remarkable journey to cinematic success with her breakout series, ‘Jenifa’, which propelled her into the limelight in 2009. Over the years, she has consistently delivered hits, including ‘Omo Ghetto: The Saga’, and ‘Battle on Buka Street’, showcasing her versatility as an actress and producer.
Notably, the 46-year-old entertainer ventured into politics in 2023, running for the position of Deputy Governor of Lagos State on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party.
In addition to her exploits in the entertainment industry, Akindele is also a philanthropist, who is dedicated to empowering young girls in Nigeria.
Her contributions extend beyond the silver screen, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Ikanna Okim
Ikanna Okim is an icon of academic excellence, pacesetter and creative writer.
She made headline news on broadcast, print, online and social media in 2021 when she broke a 36-year jinx at the University of Uyo, a federal university, by becoming the very first Law student to bag a First Class.
She proceeded to the Nigerian Law School and also bagged a First Class.
The double First Class Lawyer is an Associate with one of the biggest law firms in Africa based in Lagos, where she routinely advises on mergers, acquisitions and private equity investments.
The recent She Leads Africa Top 50 Rising Motherland Mogul is a Founding Member of the Exceptional Law Student Quarters (TELS-Q), an organisation with a membership strength of over 600 law students across 5 African countries. Through TELS-Q, she is grooming and inspiring law students in Africa to get a well-rounded undergraduate experience and emerge as well-groomed lawyers.
Ikanna is a recipient of 9 academic awards including the Future Awards Africa Prize for Academic Achievement 2022. She is a 2023 Nominee in the Impact Makers Category for the 25 Under 25 Future Forward Female Awards and a 2024 Nominee in the Inspirational Woman category of Emerge Africa Awards.
When Ikanna is not advising on transactions with vast economic impact or advocating against gender-based violence, she is sharpening her Mandarin and making music for leisure. Her favourite quote is “Impossible is nothing”.
Mo’Abudu
Mosunmola Abudu, popularly known as Mo Abudu, has carved a niche for herself as a visionary entrepreneur and trailblazer in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
As the founder of EbonyLife TV, the Ondo State-born entrepreneur made history as the first Nigerian woman to own media house and cimema. Since its inception in 2013, EbonyLife TV has expanded its reach across Africa and the UK, offering a diverse range of programming tailored to a global audience.
Her EbonyLife Films has also produced successful films such as ‘The Wedding Party’, and ‘Òlòtūré’. Her collaborative efforts with international organisations such as Netflix and BBC have further cemented her reputation as a formidable force in the industry.
Kafayat Shafau-Ameh
Kafayat Shafau, popularly known as Kaffy, has made significant contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry as a dancer, choreographer, and fitness coach.
Her groundbreaking achievement came in 2006 when she broke the Guinness World Records for the longest dance party, showcasing her exceptional talent and endurance.
Since then, Kaffy has continued to inspire audiences with her dynamic performances, choreographing for numerous celebrities and appearing on global platforms like MTV.
Beyond her contributions to dance and entertainment, she has also authored bestselling memoirs and books, sharing her expertise and experiences with aspiring dancers.
As the founder of a fitness company, Kaffy promotes health and wellness, advocating for active lifestyles and physical fitness. Her entrepreneurial spirit and global recognition highlight her impact on the entertainment landscape.
Chimamanda Adichie
Chimamanda Adichie stands as a trailblazing figure in Nigerian literature. She made history as the first Nigerian female writer to deliver the inaugural BBC Reith Lectures in 2022, drawing inspiration from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s iconic ‘Four Freedoms’ speech. Her literary prowess has earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the esteemed American Academy of Arts and Sciences in October 2017, and the PEN Pinter Prize in 2018.
Hailing from Enugu State, Adichie has been hailed as a leading figure among a new generation of critically acclaimed authors, with her work resonating strongly in the United States of America. Throughout her career, she has garnered recognition for her short stories, including being shortlisted for the Caine Prize for African Writing in 2002, and winning the David T. Wong International Short Story Prize in 2003.
The literary genius from Enugu State has her impact extending beyond her literary achievements. She has been honoured with 16 honourary doctoral degrees from institutions around the world, cementing her status as a revered figure in global literature.
