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British Council Launches Platform to Help Creatives Earn Money

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British Council

By Adedapo Adesanya

The British Council has launched a new eLearning platform, SoCreative; a series of free online courses designed to help aspiring African entrepreneurs grow sustainable creative businesses, supporting them in their journeys.

The initiative was launched this month at the SoCreative Summit 2024, the fifth edition of the annual, highly-popular summit, hosted by the British Council and Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) in partnership with PACE in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The event was attended by cultural makers, artists, fashion designers and anyone deserving of the title ‘creative’ – both in-person and virtually, serving as a platform to nurture innovation and promote the growth and vitality of Africa’s creative economy.

The SoCreative eLearning platform is aimed at early-stage entrepreneurs who want to turn their creative pursuits into sustainable, fulfilling business endeavours.

The free, self-paced courses are designed to guide users through the entire process from learning about Africa’s creative industry to finding the right market for their ideas, distinguishing their businesses, finding investors, business management skills and more.

The courses include Launching Your Creative Enterprise, Growing Your Creative Enterprise, Social Impact through Entrepreneurship and Creative Economy Policy.

Speaking on this, Ms Farai Bayai Ncube, Regional Arts Director Sub-Saharan Africa: British Council said, “This final summit’s theme, ‘Emergence’, embodies the complete dedication, creativity, and vision of our delegates and partners who have contributed to its success over the past five years.

“By this same token, the emergence of our SoCreative eLearning programme will serve in its legacy, and like the summit itself, is free to those who wish to gain knowledge.”

She also said that the SoCreative eLearning programme was developed by academic practitioners within Africa and the United Kingdom’s creative economies, and aims to fill the creative knowledge business gaps that exist in the ecosystem.

“The challenges facing creative entrepreneurs have been revealed in previous summits and multiple conversations with our programme stakeholders, and so we have developed the platform in an attempt to address these shortfalls through fostering an ecosystem in which young entrepreneurs can thrive,” she noted.

According to Mr Skinder Hundal, Global Arts Director at the British Council, upon completing the programme, participants will receive a certificate of achievement.

This will make them eligible to apply for ongoing support through mentoring, coaching, incubation and acceleration of creative economy programmes via the British Council’s network within participating countries.

“While this may be the final summit in this format, we will continue to create platforms that enable young people to lead innovation, to become visionaries and to shape their futures. The impact of this investment and collaboration will inspire future global leaders, making a positive impact in Africa and the world in the years to come,” he added.

Adedapo Adesanya is a journalist, polymath, and connoisseur of everything art. When he is not writing, he has his nose buried in one of the many books or articles he has bookmarked or simply listening to good music with a bottle of beer or wine. He supports the greatest club in the world, Manchester United F.C.

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Holiday Preview: Festive Season Programmes to Watch Out for on GOtv

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Imagine it’s Christmas. The aroma of jollof rice wafts through the air, kids run around in matching outfits, and the TV is tuned to GOtv Channel 3, M-Net Movies 4. But this isn’t just any Christmas morning—this one’s about to go wild. A mischievous cat wreaking havoc,  Matilda bending spoons with her mind, and Babe, the pig, proving why kindness trumps all.

This year, GOtv is turning your festive lineup into a whirlwind of unforgettable stories that will leave you laughing, crying, and cheering—all in one sitting. Here’s a guide to some of the festive season movies that will make your holiday season not just merry but downright legendary.

Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat

“Chaos has never been this entertaining!”

What happens when a family’s holiday preparations meet a six-foot-tall cat with a penchant for mischief? Absolute pandemonium! From balancing teetering stacks of furniture to unleashing his Thing 1 and Thing 2 accomplices, the Cat pushes the boundaries of holiday cheer. Did you know this whimsical character has sparked debates about his “anarchic” influence for decades?

This Christmas, let the Cat in the Hat remind you that sometimes, a little chaos is needed to bring families together. Catch this iconic film on Thursday, December 19th, at 12:15 pm.

Matilda

“Who says kids can’t save Christmas?”

Matilda Wormwood may be small, but her courage and wit are larger than life. Remember the scene where she finally takes a stand against Miss Trunchbull? That’s not just a victory—it’s a moment that defines resilience. This heartwarming classic proves that even the tiniest among us can create the biggest miracles.

Gather the family and let Matilda inspire a holiday spirit filled with courage, imagination, and just a touch of telekinesis. This family favourite airs on Wednesday, December 25th, at 3:00 pm.

Babe & Babe: Pig in the City

“From farmyard hero to city superstar!”

What could be more festive than the tale of a pig who defies the odds? Babe’s journey to prove his worth is a story that echoes the true spirit of the holidays: kindness, determination, and belief in oneself. In Babe: Pig in the City, the stakes are raised as our lovable hero ventures into an urban jungle.

These tales are more than entertaining—they’re a gentle reminder to embrace every family member, even the most unlikely ones. Catch Babe on Monday, December 23rd, at 8:35 am, and don’t miss the sequel, Babe: Pig in the City, airing the next day, Tuesday, December 24th, at 9:00 am.

️ Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs

“Let it rain… cheeseburgers?”

What if your holiday feast literally fell from the sky? This imaginative adventure takes festive indulgence to a whole new level. Whether it’s giant pancakes or spaghetti tornadoes, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs brings a colourful twist to the festive spirit. But beyond the fun, it’s a heartfelt story about family, innovation, and the courage to dream big. Join the adventure on Sunday, December 22nd, at 2:25 pm

Problem Child & Problem Child 2

“When holiday chaos meets Junior…”

Imagine this: one kid, two parents, and endless mayhem. Problem Child introduces us to Junior, the walking definition of “holiday surprises.” In the sequel, the laughs double as Junior’s antics escalate to new heights. It’s hilarious, nostalgic, and a perfect reminder that no family gathering is complete without a little drama. Watch the chaos unfold on Tuesday, December 24th, at 1:55 pm, followed by even more antics in Problem Child 2 at 3:25

Your Holiday Starts Here

This Christmas, GOtv isn’t just delivering entertainment; it’s creating moments you’ll treasure forever. From whimsical chaos to heartwarming tales, M-Net Movies 4 on Channel 3 has it all.

So grab a plate of Christmas jollof, huddle up with your loved ones, and let the holiday magic unfold on screen. And don’t forget to tune in to GOtv Channel 3 to catch these festive classics.

Don’t miss the chance to make your holiday season unforgettable. Subscribe, upgrade, or reconnect now through the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. This Christmas is not just about the presents—it’s about the stories that bring us together.

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All Set for Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers’ FUZE 3.0 Festival

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2024 FUZE Talent Show

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, all roads will lead to the Livespot Entertarium in Lekki, Lagos for the Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers’ FUZE Talent Show 3.0 on Saturday, December 21, 2024.

The festival is the biggest talent extravaganza in Nigeria. It is a platform that celebrates the country’s creativity and innovation.

According to the organisers, the programme promises to be a game-changing platform for unveiling Nigeria’s next generation of young talents.

The FUZE 3.0 festival features a prize pool of N50 million and an esteemed panel of judges, including industry icons like Funke Adepoju, Akinwande Akinsulire, Don Flexx, and Korede Bello.

With the theme Light it Up, this event is more than just a competition; it is a movement that celebrates Nigerian creativity in music, dance, fashion, and technological innovation.

“We are not merely hosting a talent show; we are creating a platform that amplifies the extraordinary potential of Nigerian youths in music, dance, fashion, and technology.

“The FUZE Festival is designed to showcase this potential, providing a vibrant space where young talent can shine, connect, and collaborate; ultimately fostering innovation and creativity within our communities.

“By celebrating diverse artistic expressions, the festival aims to inspire the next generation of leaders and change-makers in Nigeria,” the chief executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, Mr Olumide Oyetan, said.

Globally acclaimed Nigerian musical powerhouses that embody the excellence and vibrant energy of the Nigerian entertainment industry, Wande Coal, BNXN and Qing Madi, will be on stage to thrill guests and participants and electrify the atmosphere with their chart-topping hits.

This celebration is expected to birth new Nigerian talents with the potential to make a global impact after their grooming stages.

The event will include a unique holiday shopping festival. Premium Nigerian and international brands in fashion, beauty, personal care, tech, food, and beverage will display their quality goods and products for all holidaymakers and fun-seekers looking for amazing seasonal discounts on special gift items.

The exhibition area will be more than a shopping destination; it will be an immersive experience that complements the talent show’s vibrant atmosphere.

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Elevator Shoes Discreetly Improve Your Height

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Shirley - Elevator Loafers guido maggi

Shoes are a staple of the fashion industry. Hundreds of brands exist that make and produce a wealth of shoes each year. Shoes can be stylish, comfortable, and unique, but did you know that certain shoes offer some great benefits?

Elevator shoes provide a primary advantage that many men would enjoy—the appearance of being taller. And it’s not just the appearance of height for the sake of looking taller, the benefits from the height increase of elevator shoes go beyond mere looks.

The fashion industry is always innovating—as any good industry does. One of the most regarded crazes has been guido maggi elevator shoes. They’re different from regular sneakers or loafers. Elevator shoes have a specially designed insole—that is cleverly concealed—that provides a discreet increase in height.

The height increases range from 2.5-5 inches, depending on the brand and design. Elevator shoes are not only made in one style, many variations can accommodate many social gatherings and settings.

Elevator Shoes Provide A Height Increase

One of the main benefits of elevator shoes is that they discreetly improve your height. Since the lift is hidden inside the shoe, the shoes themselves do not attract unwanted attention. These are not high-heels or platform shoes—they’re a subtle design.

Not only do they offer a height increase, but elevator shoes can also improve your stride while providing extra support. The world average height for a man is 5ft 10.5 in, while the average female height is 5ft 5 in. Some might want a little extra help to reach or surpass the average.

Some people might indeed want only a minor height increase—nothing too obvious and elevator shoes can provide that while also offering a boost of confidence.

As I said before, elevator shoes can also improve your posture. Proper posture will see your shoulders square and a more defined, straightened walking gait. The added height could also help you maintain eye contact more easily and pay closer attention to facial cues and expressions, thus improving the flow of your conversations.

Elevator Shoes Offer Comfort

Comfort is one of the main reasons people buy and wear any type of clothing. You might think that elevator shoes would be uncomfortable or that they could cause foot pain or soreness, however, neither of those is true. One of the primary goals for the design of elevator shoes was to make movements like running, walking, and hiking as easy as can be while wearing them.

In contrast, high heels can be excruciatingly painful. They offer the same height increase benefit as elevator shoes but rarely offer the same subtle design or comfort. Often, elevator shoes contain extra padding in the soles to reduce the impact on your feet when walking, jogging, or running.

As with nearly any new pair of shoes, you will need a short period to ‘break them in’ but it’s not more strenuous than any other type of shoes.

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