Debra-Jane Nelson is an award-winning Creative and Social Impact Entrepreneur, Educator, and the founder of Think Mahogany Events, one of Ghana's leading events production companies. Passionate about perfection, she drives her company to exceed customer expectations through unique, high-quality, and impactful event design, coordination, and planning. Known for flawless execution, Debra-Jane has successfully delivered over 1,000 events, ranging from public outreach initiatives, large-scale political rallies and gatherings, community engagement activities, corporate conferences to weddings, funerals and charity fundraisers, both in Ghana and internationally.

As a trend-setter and results-driven leader, she has trained over 600 professionals through her Events Masterclass Ghana and Ghana Events Industry Academy. Think Mahogany celebrated 14 years in business in March 2024. With a culture of innovation, transparency, and integrity, Debra-Jane is dedicated to transforming individuals and empowering communities.

In addition to her business, Debra-Jane founded Zero Hunger Ghana in 2018, a non-profit focused on reducing hunger by providing vulnerable communities with nutritious food through sustainable, self-dependent projects. She is also the co-curator of Jollof Rave, an annual open-air event celebrating Ghana's famous Jollof rice, where she gives free meals to the vulnerable under her Zero Hunger initiative.

A passionate educator, Debra-Jane hosts Impact Your World with Debra-Jane, a weekly Instagram live show, and has interviewed influential figures in politics, business, and entertainment. With over 180 episodes aired, her platform focuses on imparting knowledge and impacting lives.

Based in Côte d'Ivoire, Astou Djamat-Dubois, is bilingual seasoned executive planner and dedicated event trainer, founder and CEO of Spotlight productions, an experiential event management agency specialised in custom "on demand" corporate and social events.
With over 15 years of experience, this creative planner started her career in Canada where she was involved in planning and coordinating major cultural events, festivals such as the Calgary Global Fest and Afrikadey Festival and Calgary Movie Festival to name a few. She was also involved in coordinating a few movie premieres for Nollywood producers based in Canada.
Since her return back to her homeland, she has been hired by a variety of clients to assist with high profile Women leadership conferences, luxury showroom grand openings, charity galas and tradeshows.
Astou holds a Certification in Wedding and Event Planning as well as a Masters Degree in Business Administration She has attended half a dozen event conferences across Africa, Canada and in China both as participant as well as speaker or moderator.
In 2012 she co-founded Event Pro International, a bilingual events training agency whose vision is to build capacities and inspire professionalism and excellence in the African event space. As an event planning coach, she has trained and mentored over 500 event professionals across Francophone Africa.
In 2019, she signed a partnership agreement with Ghana-based Wedding Magazine DREAM and transformed it into the 1st ever bilingual event publication dedicated to luxury weddings and events in Africa and distributed internationally.
This mother of 4 defines herself as an panafrican at heart and is always ready to contribute to any african-based initiative that advances the cause of excellency and collaboration within the continent.

Bryan Fafali Tachie-Menson is revered as Ghana's premier wedding and events planner. He is the team Lead at WHITECHALK GLOBAL and the lead producer at THE MAGICHOUSE, both of which are industry pioneers within the zones of wedding and event planning. His effort in making "dreams come true" cannot go unnoticed. He has been named twice to be among the top 100 most influential wedding organizers and creators across the globe by Destination Wedding Planners (DWP), the world's biggest B2B platform for destination weddings.

Mr. Tachie-Menson's widened portfolio speaks for itself. He has planned and designed over 700 weddings in West Africa and beyond during the stretch of his career and has won numerous awards for his work.

It is often said that, there's nothing as a good event without Bryan's magic touch. 

He is a notable trendsetter who specializes in planning unique and exquisite weddings and is an essential figure and influencer in Ghana's modern and progressive events planning scene. He has been featured in several wedding look books, magazines,  journals and blogs. 

His home country, as well as the world recognizes his immense influence in the event industry. In 2022, Bryan Fafali Tachie-Menson won the highly prestigious Ghana's Forty Under40 Award under the coveted category, "Event planner of the year" and was also named among 50 most influential event personalities in Ghana by the ICS Africa (Impact Concepts and Solutions Africa), an organization set up to add value to corporate businesses all over the continent.

Correspondingly, as a senior planner at HEY MR. INTERNATIONAL PLANNER, Mr Tachie-Menson, alongside his work, has contributed greatly in the impart of his knowledge to the new generation as he strongly believes in improving the prospects of all people. He is recognized worldwide as an international conference speaker and a tutor who  has spoken and taught in countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, south Africa, India, China , he is an unparalleled expert in the realm of event planning. With experience orchestrating memorable occasions across Africa, Mr. Bryan has honed his craft to perfection, seamlessly blending creativity, precision, and cultural sensitivity. His deep and varied comprehension of African values and cultures has enabled him to appreciate his clients' needs; this appreciation is reflected in how he is perceived on African stages to share his experiences and his skills with other persons in similar fields.

As a driving force in the African wedding scene, Bryan Fafali Tachie-Menson, as well as his highly professional team has carved a niche as the ultimate event planner across all of Africa. Evidently, good work speaks for itself. It is hence not shocking to see the immense amount of admiration, not only from the public, but also from other event experts all over the African continent.

Ella is a business consultant and coach.
She is an expert in helping small and midsize companies develop and execute strategies that fuel their business growth.
She has a B.Sc in Management Information system, an MBA with concentration in strategy and other certifications. She has worked in banking and consulting, in Nigeria and in the USA.
Ella focuses most of her time and energy in helping CEOs and leadership teams build more successful and sustainable businesses.
She is a Certified Management Consultant, the current Managing Partner of HillBridge Consulting and sits on the board of Addosser Microfinance Bank.

Dr. Olori Boye-Ajayi is a visionary leader and catalyst for change, dedicated to driving Africa's trade transformation and empowering women across the continent. With almost 15 years of experience in trade and investment, women empowerment, and sustainable development, she has established herself as a thought leader and expert in Africa's structural transformation strategy. She is an author and a current student at the prestigious Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford, pursuing a Public Policy program. Dr. Olori is currently a Member of the Working Group, AfCFTA Trade, and Industrial Development Advisory Council, and serves as a Board Member for Made in Nigeria Commodities Export. In addition to her strategic insights, she has successfully secured funding and trade finance exceeding $1,000,000 for women in the export community and facilitated exports to Australia, the U.S., and the United Kingdom.

Dr. Olori's impact extends beyond her advisory roles. In recognition of her outstanding contributions to women's empowerment and trade development across the continent, she was recognized as an Honoree in the Excellence in Trade and Investment category at the African Achievers Award, 2023 which held at the Palace of Westminster, Houses of Parliament, UK. She was also a Finalist for the 30 leading women in the African Supply Chain Industry in 2023. She has been a Facilitator, Mentor, and a Project Partner with the Academy for Women Entrepreneur (AWE), a White House initiative to enhance the economic development of female entrepreneurs from 2019 to 2022. In 2021, she was appointed by the Honourable Commissioner of Trade and Investment of Vanuatu to Nigeria and South Africa to execute the 'Women in Investment – WINher' program. Dr. Olori's influence extends to academia, where she served as a Guest Lecturer at the Lagos Business School, teaching the Executive MBA class on International Trade topics from 2018 to 2022. Her achievements also include being the first female Ambassador for Afreximbank MANSA Ambassador in Nigeria in 2021 and earning a place in the Top 100 Inspiring Women in Africa Award by Leading Ladies Africa in 2021 and 2023.

One of Dr. Olori's key strengths is her ability to drive inclusive growth by leveraging technology and simplifying program processes. Her commitment to gender-focused programs and training for entrepreneurs, supported by tech-driven solutions, ensures maximum impact and scalability. She has successfully collaborated with multilateral organizations that focus on diversity, inclusion, and gender equality, making her a sought-after consultant in these areas.

Throughout her career, Dr. Olori has made significant contributions to trade facilitation and economic growth. As the Managing Director of Borderless Trade, she spearheaded empowerment and trade facilitation programs for thousands of women entrepreneurs. Passionate about empowering women in business, she founded the Borderless Trade Network Nigeria & Liberia, establishing a network of thousands of women across various industries. Through strategic partnerships, she has delivered impactful workshops, seminars, and capacity
building programs, making a significant impact on these women. Her initiatives have fostered collaboration, networking, and support among women, leading to the achievement of their business goals.

With her remarkable expertise, strategic insights, and commitment to Africa's growth, Dr. Olori consults and advises international development institutions, and multilateral organizations on their trade development initiatives. Her passion for Africa, dedication to women empowerment, and ability to drive sustainable change makes her a valuable asset for any organization or industry leader seeking to make a transformative impact in Africa's trade and investment landscape.

Ifeoma Stella Okoye is an Internationally certified event planner, an Educator, a lawyer & an all round entrepreneur. As a change make with impact driven goals, she is helping & training business owners & budding event professionals on the legal aspects of running their businesses.
A lawyer by profession, however after 8 years of active legal practice & 4 years as a HR Specialist, her passion and nag for all things creativity and organizing led her to birth her company STM Magical Creations Ltd 9 years ago. An Event Production & Beauty company in Nigeria known for creating detailed event experiences globally. Creating events in Ghana, USA, UK & Dubai amongst many others. In 2024 STM Magical Creations was voted Event Planner of the year by the Event Organizers and Practitioners Association of Nigeria South East.

Undoubtedly passionate about impact, education, empowerment & positive change, she started STM Magical Creations Event Academy in 2019. The Academy is presently one of the best Event Training Academy’s in Nigeria. She was a senior lecturer teaching Event Management for the Executive Master’s Program at the University of Nigeria Business School in 2020. She curates women mentorship programs & host’s free empowerment, entrepreneurship, leadership and skill acquisition programs for Youth Coppers and secondary school girls.
She is a member of the ForbesBLK Community. She is a consultant for several NGO’s and an educator per excellence.

She has facilitated and spoken in so many national & international platforms, including She Leads Africa, Facebook Council, The Event Experience Africa TEXA, The Woman International, The Xperience Womanity International, Ghana Event Industry Conference (G.E.I.C), Association of African Event Professionals Summit, and so many more. Selected by Facebook for running one of the leading SMEs in Nigeria, in 2016, she was appointed a member of the Facebook Council of Nigeria. She is a member and global attendee of The Destination Wedding Planners Congress (DWP) & The Exotic Wedding Planners Conference (EWPC)

Ifeoma holds an LLB in Law from Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, an LLM in Intellectual Property Law and currently a Doctor of Philosophy in Event Management at Prowess University, Delaware U.S.A. In recognition of her contribution to the growth and development of African women, by being an embodiment of hard work, strength, selfless impact, education, inspiration, mentorship and the spirit of excellence. She was awarded the prestigious African Women Achievers Award in August 2024. For being a trailblazer, breaking barriers and paving the way for others, she was enrolled as a member and fellow of the South African Leadership Society, in August 2024. She’s a loving wife, a mother of four and a lover of God.

Her press includes: THISDayStyle, Brides Magazine, Afia TV, DSTV, Facebook, MunaluchiBride Magazine, DWP, Leading Ladies Africa, Blueprint Media, LoveWeddings NG, Wedding Planner Magazine, Bella Naija, The Woman International

Dr. Ezekiel Adamu is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and industry pioneer renowned for transforming Nigeria's event management and sportainment landscapes. With a background in Computer Science from the University of Bedfordshire and a Master's degree in Financial Decision Analysis from the University of Portsmouth, Dr. Adamu also holds a Doctor of Science (D.Sc. Hons) in Business Management & Corporate Governance. His career began at Schlumberger Nigeria, but his entrepreneurial drive led him to establish The Balmoral Group in 2006—a trailblazing conglomerate that has become synonymous with innovation and excellence in events, hospitality, and entertainment.

Under Dr. Adamu’s leadership, The Balmoral Group has grown from a single event center to a thriving enterprise managing multiple premium venues such as the Balmoral Convention Centre (Victoria Island), Balmoral Gardens (Oregun), and more. He also founded Gamerush, a groundbreaking platform merging sports, entertainment, and technology, which has redefined Nigeria’s sportainment industry. His ventures have not only set new standards for service and innovation but have also played a pivotal role in grassroots sports development.

Dr. Adamu’s achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including the City People Award for Events Company of the Year and the Impactful Patriotic Award of Distinction. Beyond his business ventures, he established The Balmoral School of Event to train hospitality professionals, further cementing his legacy as a builder of industries.

Happily married to Oluwakemi Adamu and a proud father of three, Dr. Ezekiel Adamu embodies excellence, innovation, and vision. His unwavering commitment to delivering superior experiences has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s business landscape, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs to follow in his footsteps.

Dr Nkemdilim Iheanachor (B.Eng, MBA, Mphil, PhD.) is a member of the Faculty in the Strategy Group in Lagos Business School (LBS) where he also serves as an Academic Director in the Senior Management Programme as well as a course director in other executive and open-enrolment programmes in the School. Nkemdilim holds a Bachelors degree in Electronic Engineering, a Master of Business Administration degree as well as MPhil and PhD Degrees in Strategic Management. He is also a visiting professor in at University of Stellenbosch's Business School, Cape Town, South Africa as well as Africa Business School, King Mohammed VI University, Rabat, Morocco.

He has attended fellowships and faculty development programmes in Harvard Business School, Wharton Business School and Robinson College of Business all in the United States of America. He is also an alumnus of the ITP Programme in INSEAD Business School, France. He has extensively presented his research in international professional and academic conferences. He is currently a member of the worldwide Academy of Management as well as the Academy of Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Knowledge. As a member of the Academy of International Business, he sits on the executive committee as the treasurer of the African chapter. He sits on the editorial boards of the International Journal of Governance and Financial Intermediation and Digital Economics and Innovation ESIC Journal.

He has had prior experience in Banking as a Relationship Manager in the Multilateral, Conglomerates and Private Banking group of Zenith Bank; as an Investment Banker where he was involved in Project Finance, Mergers and Acquisitions and financial advisory engagements and as a Consultant where he was involved in business advisory engagements for large multinationals and local corporates.

In the last ten years, he has consulted for well two hundred and fifty private and public sector organizations as well as governments in industries such as oil and gas, energy, banking, insurance, pensions, telecommunications, consumer markets and retail all around Africa. Nkemdilim has extensively consulted in the areas such as growth transformation, strategy development, execution, corporate restructuring, foreign subsidiary establishment, corporate strategy development, competitive strategy development and blue ocean strategy development.
Nkemdilim is a thought leader and active participant in the Nigerian Financial Inclusion Ecosystem. He leads the Supply-Side workstream of the Sustainable & Inclusive Digital Financial Services Initiative (SIDFS) in LBS aimed at improving financial inclusion in Nigeria through research, capacity building and stakeholder engagement. SIDFS is supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF). He has led different research programmes on the adoption of digital financial services (DFS) for financial inclusion. He currently sits on the board of some private sector organizations and also serves as a strategy mentor to several CEOs and top corporates.

Debola Lewis can best be described as a multiple Award-winning event producer and designer with over 14 years extensive experience in event planning and design across diverse clientele alongside a broad spectrum of experience in ideating and visualizing event production strategies.
Debola is passionate about deploying the technicalities of illustrations, event design strategies and creative design to tell inspiring and memorable stories that are at the heart of each client’s desires.

Debola has a strong background in event production and consultancy alongside the practiced prowess to combine the business of event production with the creative aspect of being a designer.

As a successful entrepreneur, one of the ways Debola channels his creative passion to expression is with his Events design company – Yvent Kouture now Know as YK Designs.

Y.K Designs specializes in the design and creation of distinctive events based the specific needs of clients. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, social/religious gathering, or an intimate dinner party the goal is to transform environments with a mix of solutions that integrate lighting, furnishings, linens and floral design to orchestrate a truly memorable event.

As the creative director and principal consultant, Debola provides design direction of the brand to showcase its uniqueness alongside overseeing the end-to-end management of the business, comprising of procurement, finance and marketing, business development, customer service and experience and administrative functions.

Y.K Designs has carved its niche as one of the top-most event design companies in Lagos, Nigeria and they serve a wide range of A-list clientele ranging from celebrities, to corporate organizations and conglomerates, federal and state government parastatals as well as top dignitaries within Nigeria.

One of the many hats Debola wears is as the President & CEO of the recently founded Anthony Lewis Designs inc. – a premium luxury events, bridal and interior design firm that caters exclusively to HNIs.

Debola has received several recognition for his innovative and entrepreneurial achievements by winning an award from the future Awards Africa, The Royal Event Decorator to mention a few. He has also been listed in the Business Day 40 under 40 recognition for his continued innovation and successes in the design space.

Debola has also successfully facilitated trainings, workshops and seminars on event design and has been invited as a guest speaker to several industry conferences.

His impressive work ethic, attention to detail and his drive for excellence have set him apart and made him stand out as an accomplished event design and production connoisseur within and outside Nigeria.

His educational background includes an Entrepreneurial Management and Business Management certification from the Pan African University and a BSc. From the University of Ibadan.

Sola Adesakin (FCA FCCA CPA MBA CFEI) is a highly respected wealth coach and chartered accountant with over two decades of transformative impact in the finance industry. As the visionary founder of Smart Stewards Financial Advisory Limited and Smart Stewards Advisory LLC, she has revolutionized the financial well-being of countless individuals and businesses across 40 countries. Her methodical approach to 'make-manage-multiply' money principles has elevated many from financial stress to prosperity, and from mediocrity to exceptional achievement.

Sola is a passionate advocate for SDG5 and SDG10, actively working to close the gender gap and reduce inequality through financial education, financial technology, and access to funding. Her dedication to these goals is evident in her involvement as an alumna of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs, an initiative of the US Embassy in Nigeria, and the Cherie Blair Foundation's Road to Growth Program. She is also an alumna of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women program and a member of the Select Global Women in Tech (SGWIT) Mentorship Network of the United States of America. Through the FRUIT Foundation, where she serves as Founder and CEO, Sola has partnered with the US Consulate in Nigeria to champion the economic empowerment of women, helping them start and scale their businesses.

Her impressive academic credentials include a BSc from Oxford Brookes University and an MBA from Edinburgh Business School. Sola is a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants of the United Kingdom (ACCA), and a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA). In addition to these credentials, she is also a Certified Financial Education Instructor and a Member of the Personal Finance Speakers Association. Sola’s expertise and leadership have earned her numerous accolades, including being honored as one of Guardian Nigeria’s 100 most inspiring women in 2020, one of ABCD Africa's 100 most impactful voices in 2024, and one of Gabi Africa's 100 leading coaches for 2024. She is a 2024 alumna of the US Government-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and a Fellow of the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center's Milestone Maker Program for Fall 2024.

Sola skillfully led her investment club, one of the largest in Nigeria, to diversify and invest in various asset classes, amassing investments totaling about $8 million within just two years. She also contributes her strategic acumen as a board member of four Small and Medium Enterprises, driving growth and innovation. Her expertise in finance and business has earned her recognition from top Nigerian companies, who regard her as one of the country's finest upcoming businesswomen. Through The Smart Stewards, she has led her teams to
train for multinationals, including one of the Big 4 accounting firms and other leading financial institutions. Additionally, she serves as an Executive Coach for the MBA class at James Hope University.

Not only is Sola a thought leader and trailblazer in financial coaching, but she is also a cherished author of eight best-selling books that simplify the essence of wealth creation and management. Her work is dedicated to making money less mysterious and spreading financial wisdom globally. Her insights are regularly featured in national newspapers and leading international media outlets such as Yahoo Finance and Forbes, where she shares her extensive knowledge, making finance more accessible to a broader audience. Her admission into the Forbes Coaching Council further testifies to her relentless pursuit of leveraging global alliances and partnerships to empower people in achieving their financial goals.

With her extensive experience, academic credentials, and global partnerships, Sola is well-positioned to empower people worldwide in their pursuit of financial success. She is happily married and, from her base in Lagos, works with individuals and businesses around
the globe.

...

Christopher Ehinomen Omoijiade, known as the CEO, is a multifaceted professional excelling in various roles such as an entrepreneur, engaging speaker, dedicated mentor, insightful coach, and innovative consultant. His passion for teaching leadership and personal success principles has been a driving force throughout his career.

He is also the chief storyteller and executive at TCOC Global - a personal development, leadership, management, and innovation consultancy boutique firm dedicated to effective implementation of tools to enhance the value proposition and productivity of individuals and businesses.
Over the span of two decades, Chris has conducted impactful trainings for renowned entities such as Continental RE, Diamonds and Pearls, Etisalat, The Nigerian Army, Zapphaire Events, Corona Schools, Wole Olanipekun & Co, among several others.

His expertise spans management consulting, corporate training, and legal services, having earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from the esteemed University of Lagos and a Master of Law in Telecommunications and Maritime Law from the University of Hertfordshire, UK.
His skill set encompasses leadership coaching, personal effectiveness, success principles, strategic planning, and people management consultancy. Chris's coaching extends across a diverse array of clients, encompassing government agencies, businesses, educational institutions, and various organizations, both locally and internationally.

Additionally, Chris is a minister and a proud graduate of the Koinonia School of Ministry, holding a diploma in theology and ministry from the Remnants Christian Network- Adullam in Markurdi, Benue. He maintains active membership in esteemed professional bodies, including the Nigerian Bar Association, International Bar Association, Institute of Directors, and Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, among others.
As an accomplished author, Chris has penned several insightful books, including titles like 'Get Ahead: Practical Steps to Face Realities and Embrace Success,' 'Gatekeepers,' and 'You Can Be Debt Free,' among others.
He is also the pioneering servant of Arimathea Believers Network; a ministry with a vision to raise and empower apostles in the marketplace who will seek and do God’s will in their sphere of influence and across the nations of the earth. With a desire to unleash the authority and power of God within the multifarious corridors of the marketplace, righteous apostles who willinterface with God to change and override the laws that govern the marketplace.

Happily married and blessed with two sons, Chris resides in the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria.
His commitment to professional excellence and holistic development is evident in his active involvement in various professional associations, where he continues to contribute his expertise and leadership.

Boluwatife Omoniyi is an event strategist and the Senior Events Associate at Big Cabal Media, one of Africa’s most innovative and influential media companies. With a proven track record of executing high-impact events, she has led the planning of flagship conferences like Moonshot by TechCabal and the EdTech Conference by Mastercard Foundation, driving conversations at the intersection of technology, innovation, and creativity in Africa. 

Known for her attention to detail and innovative approach, Boluwatife has collaborated with top brands, global organisations, and startups to deliver events that inspire action and engagement. 

Her passion for elevating Africa’s event standards through creativity and seamless execution has made her a standout professional, delivering experiences that leave a lasting impact.

With over 10 years of experience, Bedge is a 30-year-old renowned name in the wedding industry. Having captured nearly a thousand weddings and earned several prestigious awards, such as being recognized as one of the best wedding photographers globally in 2024 and the number one wedding photographer in Nigeria, the journey of building the Bedge brand has been exhilarating. My objective is to revolutionize the way Nigerian weddings are documented.

Niyi Fagbemi is a professional travel and documentary filmmaker renowned for showcasing the beauty of Nigeria and Africa through his lens by combining videography, photography, and storytelling to showcase Africa’s culture, landscapes, and people. His work serves as a visual celebration of the continent's beauty while providing authentic narratives that challenge
stereotypes and amplify African perspectives.

His mission is to change the narrative about Africa. Through engaging content and with almost a million followers across all platforms, He aims to inspire others to explore, appreciate, and celebrate the unseen richness of African life.
One of his most outstanding works on the Ojude Oba Festival gathered global recognition with over 100 million views across all platforms.

Initially trained as a mechanical engineer, Niyi's passion for photography emerged during his university years and later became his full-time focus. He believes in reshaping the narrative of Africa, one day at a time.

Niyi Fagbemi has collaborated with an impressive roster of globally renowned organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), USAID, National Geographic (NatGeo), Red Bull, United Bank for Africa (UBA), MTN, Rocky Mountain Institute, the African-Canadian Civic Engagement Council, and UN Women, among others. His projects span initiatives in visual storytelling, culture promotion, and advocacy in all 6 geopolitical zones in Nigeria and several countries in Africa, showcasing his versatility and ability to communicate powerful narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
These partnerships highlight his dedication to using photography and videography as tools for positive change, focusing on issues such as community development, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability.

Mohammed Garuba is a co-founder of CardinalStone Partners, a full-fledged multi-strategy Investment Management Firm; He is currently the CEO of CardinalStone Real Assets, an investment management firm focused on real estate and infrastructure development.

He has 25+ years of broad experience in the investment management and financing industry; and currently serves in executive and technical advisory roles shaping real estate and infrastructure investment strategies. His expertise spans across the asset lifecycle covering deal screening, portfolio analysis and strategy, development, and asset management. Mohammed began his career in investment banking, transitioning later to real estate and infrastructure investing, where he has focused his efforts in the last two years. He is a founder and investor; and has founded and scaled several successful businesses.

Mohammed holds an MBA from London Business School and a B.Sc. in Insurance from the University of Lagos. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, The Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers of Nigeria, and the Institute of Islamic Finance Professionals and an Associate of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment, UK. His executive educational experience includes the Advanced Management Development Program of Harvard Graduate School of Design and an alumnus of Yale University and Harvard Kennedy School. 

He is passionate about boxing, football, golf and tennis. He enjoys farming, mentoring, reading, and volunteering.

• Mariée, 03 enfants
• Experte en organisation d’événements 
• Experte en Marketing des produits financiers (08 ans d’expérience dans le secteur du transfert d’argent)
• Bilingue français/anglais ; bonnes notions d’espagnol
• Diplômée d’Ecole de commerce (ISTEC Paris)
• Titulaire d’un Master en Communication et Publicité B2C (INSEEC Paris)
• Directrice Générale de SAMMEC SARL (Salon du Mariage et des Moments d’Exception du Cameroun) : organisation des événements privés et professionnels, conseils et formations (décoration et événementiel)
• Promotrice du Salon du Mariage de Douala, événement annuel depuis 2014
• Prochaine édition prévue du 07 au 09 février 2025 au Krystal Palace Douala
• Wedding Planner Certifiée, membre du réseau international Weddings Beautiful : organisation partielle ou totale de mariages, conseils aux futurs mariés, aux familles et aux corps d’honneur, depuis 2016
• Près de 90 mariages organisés
• Plus de 150 couples reçus en consultation
• Speaker
• Mentor en wedding planning : label « MW Protégés »

Olanrewaju Esho, also known as Lanre Esho, is an award-winning Creative Director and founder of Frontline AV Production, celebrated for his unmatched expertise in cinematic wedding films and live event production. With over a decade of experience, Lanre has consistently pushed the boundaries of storytelling and technical excellence in the event and entertainment industry.

Wedding Cinematography

Lanre’s passion for creating timeless love stories has earned him international acclaim. He has filmed destination weddings across eight countries, including high-profile events. His cinematic techniques, coupled with a deep understanding of storytelling, evoke powerful emotions, leaving couples with enduring memories captured in breathtaking visuals.

In 2014, Lanre was honored with the Best Wedding Cinematographer award at the inaugural Appoenm Awards, solidifying his position as a trailblazer in the industry.

Live Event Production

Lanre’s expertise extends beyond weddings. He has directed large-scale productions, leading crews of up to 20 professionals for notable projects such as Sunmisola Agbebi's viral hit "My Daddy My Daddy", with over 11 million views. His mastery of multicam production and live event execution has made him a sought-after partner for major live recordings and concerts.

Lanre has collaborated with leading gospel artists, including Pastor Nathaniel Bassey on albums such as 'Names of God' and 'Halleluyah Album,' and Dunsin Oyekan on 'The Gospel of the Kingdom' and 'The Birth Revival.' These works have garnered millions of views and inspired audiences worldwide.

Thought Leader & Mentor

A sought-after speaker at industry events like The Event Experience Africa (TEXA), Hollyland tech meet up. Lanre shares insights and innovations with budding creatives and seasoned professionals. His influence extends to mentoring teams and fostering creativity in live music video productions, particularly in the Chicago area.

Lanre Esho’s journey is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and ability to reinvent his craft. His work resonates as a blend of technical precision and heartfelt storytelling, earning him a reputation as one of the most respected names in wedding and event cinematography today.

Kunmi Ariyo is the Founder and CEO of Mirus Events, a leading event management company operating out of Nigeria. A global event management consultant, speaker, facilitator, and content creator around all things Events.

With a track record of over 10 years, his company Mirus Events has gone on to execute and manage an average of 200 events including Google for Nigeria 2017, 2018 & 2019 in partnership with BLEND from South Africa, The CAF Awards 2018 in Ghana, TechCrunch Battlefield Africa 2018, the Google Impact Challenge Awards, the DHL Lekki Launch, YouTube Week 2019, YouTube Shorts Playground @ Afrochella 2021, Spotify Fun House 2022, DevFest Lagos 2019,2021,2022 & 2023, Infinix Note 30 Launch, Spotify Afrobeats Celebration, Spotify Wrapped 2022 & 2024, Vertical Rave 2022 & 2023 to name a few.

Honoured as one of the 60 most influential event professionals in the Event Industry Power List in 2024, Kunmi is passionate about the corporate and tech event space because he believes data is the new ‘oil’. He is committed to sparking collaborations in the event industry and creating impactful, memorable events.

His online series titled LET’S TALK EVENTS has become a favourite among event enthusiasts across the continent.
He is currently the president of the International Live Events Association (ILEA) Nigerian chapter.

Kunbi Odubogun is a renowned Business Lawyer, Speaker, and Digital Media Expert with over 14 years of experience in the legal and creative industries. With a proven track record of supporting startups, small businesses, and creative professionals, Kunbi has earned a reputation as a trusted legal advisor known for her attention to detail and dedication to her clients’ success.

In addition to her work as an attorney, Kunbi is the creator of Legally Set, a contract template shop offering ready-made, attorney-drafted contracts tailored specifically for creative entrepreneurs and event professionals. She is also the founder of Perfete, an award-winning digital media platform providing wedding and event inspiration for modern couples and luxury event professionals.

Kunbi’s expertise extends to immigration for entrepreneurs and creatives, where she helps business owners navigate U.S. work visas and residency options to expand their ventures internationally. Her unique blend of legal acumen and creative industry experience allows her to provide practical, innovative solutions that empower event professionals and creatives to scale their businesses with confidence.

A sought-after speaker, Kunbi has shared her insights on prominent platforms such as CNN, BellaNaija, Engage!, Wharton Business School, The Knot, and Black Bride, among others. Her mission is to inspire entrepreneurs and creatives with actionable legal guidance, ensuring they are legally set to thrive in their industries.

Kola Oyeneyin, a seasoned investor and faith-driven entrepreneur, is on a mission to reduce wealth inequality and unlock Africa’s prosperity. With expertise cutting across finance, technology, investment, insurance, economic policy, and leadership, Kola possesses a unique talent for building nascent ideas from concepts to formidable business structures that create visible & lasting impact. Over the last 15 years, he has pioneered many ‘firsts’ in Nigeria’s business landscape, including the coworking and insurance technology (InsurTech) industries; through Venia Group – a venture creation and development company he founded & led. Most recently, he developed a new and innovative financing structure for Africa’s creative industry, funding “The Black Book,” Africa’s most successful movie on Netflix.

Kola currently serves as the CEO and Chief Investment Officer of Opportunik Global Fund (OGF), a multi-million dollar fund, specializing in alternative investments and impact-driven deal creation, with offices in Mauritius, Nigeria, the Cayman Islands, and Kenya.

Beyond his professional commitments, Kola is passionate about building people. Through platforms such as: The Adullam Nation, K.O. Circle (for Gen Zs), and Believers in Business Network, Kola develops young people into leaders with values and substance.

He is a Harvard Alumnus, an Archbishop Desmond Tutu Fellow, recognized as one of “The Most Influential People of African Descent” - by MIPAD and ‘Founder of One of the Companies to Inspire Africa’ - by The London Stock Exchange Group. Kolawole is a devoted husband and father, and a man of faith.

Kevin is one of the most sought after wedding and events planners Africa has seen to date. A creative who is famous for executing some of the most memorable Weddings and Events mainly in Southern Africa and overseas. Kevin has over 300 weddings and events in his portfolio , some which include unforgettable destination weddings and excursions ,bespoke milestone event, corporate launches and exhibitions and prestigious state affiliated events.

Success as an event planner has not come overnight. He has invested in equipping himself with the tools of the trade with a wide range of qualifications to boot. Kevin has been trained at the South Africa School of Weddings and also attended The Art of Planning Master class, The Karen Tran Masterclass , The Destination Wedding Planners Congress and The Coterie Retreat all which are prestigious strictly by invitation event networking affairs around the world. He is also a qualified Chef with City and Guilds, a jack of all trades who also holds qualifications in Clothing Design as well as Interior Design.

In 2016 he featured on the Wedding Diaries TV Show on DSTV. In 2017 he raised the Zimbabwean flag yet again on the Forever Yena reality TV show in 2023 on Mzansi Magic. He was selected from Africa to join event professionals from around the world as they toured several destinations in Mexico and rubbed shoulders with the president of Mexico and other captains of the industry in attendance. Kevin has also been selected as an adjudicator for the wedding awards hosted by the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada for 2 consecutive years in 2018 and 2019. He has also been selected to speak at eminent event industry conferences in Zambia (The Business of Events), United Kingdom (The Event Masterclass),Namibia (W.C Coaching Workshop), South Africa (The SA Luxury Event Design Class), Ghana (Ghana Event Industry Conference) and Nigeria (The Event Xperience Africa) and at the Exotic Wedding Planning Conference held Ras Al Khaimah in the Middle East.

Kabutey My Mc, known privately as Kabutey Ocansey, is the Professional Event Mc based in Accra, Ghana and delivering excellence across the world.
His experience spans over 1,400 events in 13years of service across 15cities on 3 continents. His expertise has led to a much revered and respected craft and brand across corporate, social and entertainment events delivered live and/ via TV and other media platforms.
He has served Presidents & International VIP, held strong presence even at large events and also curated amazing memories and experiences across exclusive and exotic venues and destinations.
He is a Hall of Fame, multiple Mc of the Year, recipient and is presently focused on legacy and impact via focused mentorship across Africa and beyond.

Joycee Awosika is an award-winning entrepreneur, energy economist and speaker. She has a history of running companies, mainly ORÍKÌ, the first and only all-natural farm to skin brand to operate a fast-growing premium product & wellness spa brand on the Continent of Africa. ORÍKÌ has developed 10 wellness spas in 8 years and distributes products globally as well as provides contract manufacturing services for brands, hotels, and hospitality companies. Her wellness spas are rapidly growing across Africa with a branch in Nairobi Kenya and locations across Africa in view.

Her work has been featured in several global publications including: CNN, CNBC, The Huffington Post, Ebony Magazine, and The Guardian. She has built a reputation for her expertise in creating structure for businesses and home, and provides Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and templates through her platform, SOAR.

Joycee is avidly passionate about impacting SMEs to be sustainable and scalable, realizing that they form the backbone of any economy. Prior to building ORÍKÌ full time, she worked for the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development’s (DFID) infrastructure assistance program in Nigeria, with the Nigerian Infrastructure Advisory Facility (NIAF) as the Technical Adviser on Research, Analysis and Informatics (Performance Monitoring) to the Honorable Minister of Power. Joycee contributed to energy policy, the privatization of the power sector and multi-sector collaborations during the Power Sector Privatization Reform in Nigeria.

As the former Curator of the World Economic Forum Abuja Global Shapers Hub, a highly selective group of young people around the world, creating valuable impact in their communities, Joycee led a team of 21 entrepreneurial young leaders, on a number of community initiatives focused on education, youth unemployment and entrepreneurship.
Joycee is a World Economic Forum Global Shaper Alumni, a nominee of The Future Awards Prize in Public Service, 2013 & 2016, and selected into the African Leadership Network. She sits on the board of Oxfam's Work in Progress Program and on two other charity organizations.
She is a Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Program Fellow.

Isabella Adediji is the founder and Managing Director of Yellow Tamarind Productions, a media, PR and edtech company based in Lagos, Nigeria.

She is a graduate of Education with English and Drama from the University of Cambridge. She began her career in corporate communications at Nestlé Nigeria PLC where she was responsible for media relations and internal communications.

Her passion for education led her to the classroom where she taught English Literature, Sociology and History. It was during this time that she created, presented and produced her first television show, Africana Literati. Now in its fourth season, the Afro-centric literary show has aired on several stations across Africa and a streaming platform in the United States of America.

She has gone on to present other edutaining programmes on radio and television such as The Movie Buff Show on Africa Magic Showcase, Correct Student on City 105.1 FM and Nolly Silver Screen on Views Channel. She also hosted The FrontPage on Radio Continental, Politico Politica with Isabella Akinseye on Views Channel and Searchlight on Radio Now. She is a regular guest host on the popular live youth talk show, Rubbin' Minds on Channels Television.

Also known as The Intelligent MC, Isabella has over a decade of experience anchoring conferences, festivals, awards, summits, product unveilings, book launches, hackathons, film screenings, weddings, and parties. On weekends, you can catch her on stage as a traditional wedding compere with the stage name Alaga Sisi Bella (Alaga Oloyinbo, Alaga to lo Cambridge).

I started my career in event planning from an early age of planning events with my sister and cousins. My first official role in event planning was as an event coordinator working along side a family friend that was a caterer.
While I worked within corporate organizations, I was always given the opportunity to be a part of an event team (either as a coordinator, master of ceremony, committee member and/lead). However, in 2010 when I decided to start Q21 I took on the role as event manager and then now Creative Director.

My educational journey began with with a focus on Computer science with a Bachelor of Science from York University, Canada. I also obtained certificate in business for Executives from Wharton Executive Education and a certification in Digital Marketing from Columbia Business School.

Victor Fatanmi (also known as Fá) is a purpose-driven business leader who is leading the teams at FourthCanvas and Fullgap to elevate experiences and shape the future of work.
In 2015, Victor co-founded FourthCanvas — a design agency that has grown to become Nigeria’s number #1 provider of transformative brand identities. Inspired by insights from this journey, he co-founded Fullgap, a tech startup powering the ultimate client management tool for service providers and small businesses. In 2023, Victor received The Future Awards Prize for Technology, followed by a recognition by The Ooni of Ife as a recipient of the Royal African Awards in 2024. He is constantly rediscovering and living out his own voice while helping other people and businesses create and earn more value.

Dzigbordi is an accomplished business leader and award-winning entrepreneur with over 32 years of experience in Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship. She graduated with honors in Economics and Finance from Virginia State University Completed her Executive Education at Harvard University.

Dzigbordi is a certified High-Performance Coach from the High Performance Institute (USA) and an International Certified Protocol and Wellness Expert. She has been featured on CNN as a pioneering entrepreneur and
on M-Net for her TV show Dzigbordi TV, which aired in 46 countries.
She is an editor for the Business and Financial Times, contributing thought leadership in business, wellness, and
personal growth.

Dzigbordi is the first African woman speaker on global platforms such as ITB Berlin and SWAA Global Conference in Interlaken, Switzerland. She is a recipient of numerous global awards, including: CIMG Marketing Woman of the Year. Global Humanitarian Awards: Female Most Exceptional Change-Maker (2021, 2022, 2023).
2022 Pan African Personal Impact Influencer of the Year – Pulse Africa.
2022 HIBS Africa Award for contributions to the beauty and wellness sector.
Member of the Executive Women’s Network, advocating for women in leadership and business.

Osayi Alile is an influential leader in the third sector with a wide array of experience covering Philanthropic Management, International Development, Sustainability, and the SME sector.
As a catalyst for change, she has revolutionized the non- profit sector in Nigeria and beyond by fostering collaboration which has helped to mobilize nonprofits to support economic, social, and governmental programs while creating a more organized non-profit landscape in Nigeria and increasing its efficiency for more impact.

Osayi Alile, CEO, Aspire Coronation Trust (ACT) Foundation, a grant-making nonprofit, has led the Foundation in its mission to fund critical areas including Health, Entrepreneurship, Environment, and Leadership, which has earned ACT Foundation recognition as "Not-For-Profit of the Year", three years in a row.

Her academic background in Sociology and Public Administration from Rutgers University, New Jersey has influenced her thinking, shaping her ideas on the impact she has made in the social sector in Nigeria and beyond.

She is also the Co- Administrator at the Coalition Against Covid-19(CACOVID) which is a Private Sector task force in partnership with the Federal Government, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

As a visionary leader, Ms. Alile has served in various leadership capacities
including being the Executive Director, FATE Foundation; Vice President, Junior
Achievement of Nigeria; and CSR Consultant, Access Bank Plc.

Onye Ubanatu is a Nigerian-born, multi-disciplinary African creative entrepreneur, three-time TEDx speaker, and visionary collaborator with extensive expertise in high-end visual communication, content production, and large-scale event management. Renowned for his excellence, cultural bridge-building, and passion for Africa, he is often described as a "creative beast" with versatile and globally sought-after skills, and a knack for inspiring others through his story and process.

Onye Ubanatu has worked on a diverse range of projects both local and international some of them include the historic Argungu International Cultural and Fishing Festival, the first-ever Nigerian Football Federation Awards which hosted the FIFA president Giani Infantino, Africa Heritage Awards in Kigali and Nigeria with over 5 immediate past African presidents in attendance, BOVI Naughty By Nature, the coronation of the Eze Aro of Arochukwu Kingdom, BUA group’s 30th anniversary, More than comedy live in Ghana, Alternate Sound live 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0 powered by Quickteller, Catalysing conversation by Endeavor Nigeria 2024, Warri Again Concert, amongst many. Onye Ubanatu was also part of the huge success of the 21st coronation of the Olu of Warri, Accra Food Festival in Ghana & the biggest food festival in Africa - Bole Festival and Concert 2022 to 2024 as the festival concert producer, the Niger Delta Young professional’s MSME Summit 2023 & 2024 amongst many.

Onye has also produced television shows, documentaries, and international features while partnering with major brands and projects in telling their story and communicating their brand DNA to audiences around the world.

Onye has mentored and trained emerging creatives and serves on advisory boards for initiatives like Elendur International Fashion Week Iceland and Dreams From The Slum Organization. ‘His accolades include the Hennessy Never Stop Never Settle campaign ambassador, PACE Creative Entrepreneur of the Year, the Future Awards Screen Producer honor, Aspire Global Recognition, Awards etc. Through his work, Onye continues to inspire and add value to people and brands across Africa and beyond.

Olushola is a multipotentialite and serial entrepreneur who has founded and built successful businesses in both the food and fashion industries.
He is a business consultant and an exceptional speaker, with a focus on business profitability and self leadership. Through his podcasts and mentorship platform, he reaches over a million people monthly, offering invaluable insights on business growth and personal development.

He is also the convener of "Positioning For Profit," an SME masterclass designed to help business owners scale their ventures. His authenticity as a polymath has led to collaborations with several notable corporations across Fintech, EdTech, FMCGs, and the fashion industry.

Olushola is an alumnus of Covenant University, where he studied Sociology and became the first male student to graduate with a first class degree in the department's history, finishing top of his class. He also holds an MBA from Nexford University, with a focus on doing business in sub Saharan Africa.

Beyond building enterprises, Olushola is a personal clarity coach who helps individuals become the best versions of themselves. He takes pride in being a solution provider, a propeller who inspires others to pursue their visions and improve in every aspect of their lives. Olushola is also an ordained pastor at Celebration Church, one of the fastest growing ministries on the continent, where he serves as the Resident Pastor of one of its Lagos branches.

Dr. Olufemi Olumide FCMC, CMC, PhD is a certified management consultant and a fellow of international management consultants, a serial entrepreneur, business development professional and a management consultant with 15 years experience in enterprise and human capacity development. Olufemi has trained several organisations on customer service, business communication, peak performance, business growth and emotional intelligence.

In his quest to develop human capacity, Olufemi has gained invaluable management and career experience first at Visible Impact Consulting a reputable management consulting firm founded by Mr Fela Durotoye where he served for three (3) years as an invaluable member of the Project Management and Consulting team. With further certification as a management consultant, he has spent the last 10 years facilitating for corporate Nigeria.

Olufemi Olumide provides business development and growth solutions to SMEs in Nigeria, Africa and the UAE.

Folasayo and Ndidi are the creative minds behind Oda Creative, a branding and creative design agency specializing in distinctive branding and luxury stationery that stands out.

With almost three decades of cumulative business experience, they bring a wealth of insight to their work, crafting cohesive brand identities and marketing solutions that drive measurable growth and innovative stationery that push creative boundaries.

As engaging speakers at industry conferences, they share their expertise in branding and strategy, helping businesses elevate their image and impact. Folasayo’s strategic insight shapes brand stories that resonate, while Ndidi, as creative director, conceptualizes out-of-the-box solutions and deliverables that consistently stand out with refined aesthetics and meticulous detail.

Whether they're designing for corporate clients that include the LA Lakers, MIT and Google or creating luxury stationery and design experiences for social events, together, they deliver a unique approach that transforms brands, creates memorable high-end stationery and design experiences that make a statement.

Oda Creative's impeccable work has been consistently featured in top outlets such as Vogue, People Magazine, Brides, The Knot, The New York times, NBC and more. When not living out their love of design, Folasayo enjoys creating art, and Ndidi is a passionate reader. They can often be found at home in Houston with their two young children, playing games, traveling and sharing fun loving experiences with each other.

Topsy Kola-Oyeneyin is a seasoned systems change leader and transformation expert with over two decades of global experience as a senior advisor, policymaker, and operating executive across multiple African countries. She has worked with notable institutions, including McKinsey & Company, the Central Bank of Nigeria, and First Bank. She currently leads Augmentum Advisory, where she supports senior leaders in the private and public sectors to accelerate growth, drive value creation, and facilitate policy innovation. Topsy is a regular speaker on global platforms and has co-authored several reports, some of which have been featured in the Financial Times and The Economist. She is passionate about empowering young Africans, and recently authored UNLEASH, a blueprint to help young Africans rise, find expression, and thrive.