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Design Indaba, Google Unveil Colours of Africa to Showcase African Creatives

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Colours of Africa

An online initiative known as Colours of Africa has been launched by Design Indaba in partnership with Google Arts & Culture.

The project brings online and showcases 60 specially-curated artworks produced by over 60 unique African creatives chosen by Design Indaba – each invited to contribute a work that captures the ‘colour’ and character of their home country.

Selected by Design Indaba’s founder Ravi Naidoo, the creatives will showcase the best of African craft, product, industrial design, fashion, film, animation, graphic, food, music, jewellery and architecture.

“Africa is known for its bold, unapologetic use of colour. Each country, city and community is identifiable by its unique palette. As Africans, we can tell powerful stories through colour. This project tells a story of a continent through the universally accessible lens,” says Naidoo.

The first artistic undertaking of this scale, the project will allow viewers to discover stories of Africa as told by the African creative community. The artworks will be showcased online where users are invited to spin the kaleidoscope to explore the works in an effort to take users on a journey through Africa,  inviting them to view each country through the eyes of a local artist.

“Google has always been acutely aware and in full support of the immense creative melting pot that exists on the continent. Collaborating with Design Indaba on this project allows us to bring this support to fruition. By empowering and amplifying African voices to tell the unique stories of their cultures through their work and creativity, we hope to provide much-needed exposure, cultivate a newfound curiosity, and provide a window into the vast beauty that exists on the continent,” says Nitin Gajria, Managing Director at Google.

The project involves creatives from almost every discipline imaginable, from architecture, illustration, painting and ceramics through to writing, engineering, the performing arts and visual communications. Their creations have been converted into images, videos, texts and illustrations. The multidisciplinary mix of 60 artists includes Algerian photographer Ramzy Bensaadi, fashion designer Bisrat Negassi from Eritrea, filmmaker Archange Kiyindou “Yamakasi” from the Republic of Congo and visual artist Ngadi Smart from Sierra Leone.

To bring the project to life, Design Indaba collaborated with former Design Indaba conference speaker Noel Pretorius and his creative partner, Elin Sjöberg, who collaborated with Google Arts & Culture Lab to create the design concept and interface for the digital exhibition. The exhibition features a kaleidoscopic navigation tool that can be used to explore the art in a randomised way, giving the visitor a unique experience while allowing the art itself to shine.

“Nothing like this exists to date, so we’re very excited to break new ground. This is an important artistic catalogue, the first of its kind to plot the expanse of African artistry on Google Arts & Culture. We salute Google for taking this important step to provide the world with a resource like this – not everyone can afford to travel here or access physical art fairs and museums to view this kind of work,” continues Naidoo.

In addition to the Colours of Africa platform, the initiative will also see the launch of over 4 000 images, videos and 20 carefully curated exhibits from Design Indaba’s extensive archive. Award-winning initiatives like Sheltersuit, Arch for Arch and Emerging Creatives will be profiled extensively for the first time online.

New works by some of the most important creatives working on the continent and abroad will also be displayed. These include Fozia Ismail (featured creative on Serpentine Gallery’s Creative Exchange programme), Mayada Adil El Sayed (represented Sudanese women at the Generation Equality Forum) and Lady Skollie (winner of the 10th FNB art prize).

Design Indaba, which celebrated its 25th year in 2020, draws top thinkers and guests from across the globe. Acknowledged as the world’s best design conference, it continues to be a leader in foregrounding African creativity, making it the logical ‘home’ for this project.

“We look forward to giving viewers a ticket to experiencing a whole new world, one that is outside of their everyday surroundings and creative knowledge. This project answers the vital call for all to notice and embraces African art in all its wonder,” concludes Nitin Gajria at Google.

As part of the project launch, Design Indaba commissioned Nigerian multi-talented creative and accomplished professional artist, Chief Nike Monica Okundaye, to capture the unique spirit of her country in a colour which represents home to her. She created an original painting titled ‘The Female Drummer/Àyánbìnrin’.

Colour: Royal Blue

Country: Nigeria

Artwork Rationale:

The colour blue in Nigerian indigenous cultures is the colour of love. Before a king ascends the throne, he often has to wear royal indigo blue. In Yorùbá, this is called ẹtù. In northern Nigeria, the colour is also used for the chief or the king. Same in eastern Nigeria. In the north, they sometimes even pound the blue into the turban when they marry a new wife. The whole face is sometimes blue to show love to the new bride. During their Durba, they sometimes wear the shining blue colour in the turbans to show love to the people at the festival.

“I used blue for this painting titled ‘The Female Drummer/Àyánbìnrin’ to illustrate both the love you see here between the drummer and her lover and the love desperately needed in the time of the coronavirus lockdown. In Yorùbá societies, the talking drummer is usually at the front of the palace, sending messages to the king through the medium of the drum — messages that the visitor themselves might not understand. The unique thing about this painting, done during the lockdown, is the use of a female drummer instead of the typical male ones seen in traditional Yorùbá art. My work involves female empowerment — I have trained disadvantaged women, widows, and young women for many years on fabric art — so I am always happy to put women at the forefront of my artistic philosophy”, says Nike Okundaye, Founder and Managing Director of Nike Center for Art and Culture.

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5 BBNaija Seasons That Left Us With Unforgotten Moments

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5 BBNaija Seasons

One thing BBNaija has never struggled to deliver is premium entertainment. Every season has introduced new personalities, sparked conversations, created fan favourites and given Nigerians moments that live far beyond the finale. From iconic fights and unforgettable ships to underdog victories and shocking twists, every edition has added something to the show’s legacy.

With Season 11 around the corner, we are taking a trip down memory lane to revisit five seasons that gave us some of the franchise’s most unforgettable moments, and why we are excited to see what the next housemates will bring.

Double Wahala (Season 3)

For many fans, this was the season that defined modern BBNaija.

Cee-C and Tobi’s complicated relationship had viewers emotionally invested from start to finish, while Bambam and Teddy A gave us a love story that would continue outside the house. Alex wore her heart on her sleeve, Nina and Miracle became one of the season’s biggest ships, and Anto and Khloe’s return after eviction remains one of the twists fans still talk about.

In the middle of all the drama, Miracle quietly played one of the smartest games in BBNaija history. While louder personalities dominated conversations, he focused on the competition, won crucial tasks and walked away with the grand prize, proving that strategy could be just as powerful as popularity.

Pepper Dem (Season 4)

If any season understood the meaning of premium entertainment, it was Pepper Dem.

Mercy, Mike, Frodd, Omashola, Seyi and Diane all brought something different to the house, but it was the rivalry between Mercy and Tacha that became the defining story of the season. Their clash, which ended with Tacha’s disqualification, remains one of the most talked-about moments in BBNaija history.

Mercy went on to become the first female winner of the show, while Tacha built one of the biggest fan communities the franchise has ever seen. Years later, both names are still impossible to leave out of any BBNaija conversation.

Lockdown (Season 5)

When Nigerians needed an escape in 2020, Lockdown delivered.

Laycon’s journey from underestimated housemate to overwhelming winner is still one of the greatest underdog stories the show has produced. Erica’s disqualification changed the course of the game overnight, while her relationship with Kiddwaya kept viewers glued to their screens.

Then there was Ozo’s relentless pursuit of Nengi, a storyline that sparked endless debates, and Dorathy, whose honesty and resilience earned her fans across the country. It was a season full of memorable personalities, and many of them remain household names today.

All Stars (Season 8)

Bringing back former housemates was always going to be risky, but All Stars proved the gamble was worth it.

Old friendships were tested, rivalries resurfaced and experienced players quickly realised that reputation alone couldn’t win the game. Mercy, Cee-C, Alex, Pere, Cross, Angel and Neo all returned with something to prove, but it was Ilebaye who ended up writing the biggest story.

Often underestimated in the early weeks, she quietly navigated the game, survived nominations and completed one of the biggest comeback stories in BBNaija history with her win.

10/10 (Season 10)

A decade in, BBNaija showed it could still surprise us.

Season 10 introduced a fresh cast that wasted no time creating memorable moments. Imisi’s eventual win capped off an impressive run that included some of the season’s biggest talking points, especially her rivalry with Faith. Isabella and Thelma also had viewers talking after their heated exchanges, reminding everyone that no BBNaija season is complete without a little gbas gbos.

The romance wasn’t in short supply either. Mide and Bright Morgan quickly became one of the season’s favourite couples, while Denari and Doris kept fans invested in their relationship. Dede added a lighter twist to the season with her famous “three fishes” Kola, Jason Jae and Koyin, all competing for her attention, even as she and Koyin insisted they were nothing more than friends.

The season took another dramatic turn when Faith was disqualified after his clash with Sultana, a moment that completely changed the dynamics in the house and show. By the finale, Imisi had earned her place as winner, closing out a milestone season with plenty of memorable moments.

And that’s the thing about BBNaija. Every season leaves us with stories we’ll reference for years, while introducing new personalities who become part of the culture.

Season 11 now has its own opportunity to do the same. New housemates, new twists, new alliances, new rivalries and moments nobody can predict. If history has taught us anything, it’s that by the time the finale rolls around, we’ll already be talking about the moments that defined another unforgettable season.

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5 Africa Magic Shows You Should Be Watching Right Now

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Africa Magic Shows

Imagine trying to choose your future partner without meeting them first. Instead, you’re introduced to the people who know them best: their family, their home, their upbringing, their traditions. And from those visits alone, you’re expected to decide who deserves your heart.

It’s a bold idea, but that’s exactly what makes Date My Family Nigeria so addictive to watch. And it’s only one of the many reasons Africa Magic continues to deliver stories that spark conversations, stir emotions and keep viewers coming back for more. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, family drama, mystery or light-hearted entertainment, there’s always something worth watching.

Here are five Africa Magic shows you should be watching right now:

1. Date My Family Nigeria

Thursday | 1:00 PM | Africa Magic Family Ch 7

Finding love has never been this adventurous. Instead of going on dates with potential partners, one bachelor or bachelorette visits the families of three singles before meeting them. From first impressions and family dynamics to unexpected advice and hilarious moments, every visit reveals more than any traditional date ever could.

The big question is simple: Can you choose your future partner based on the people who raised them?

2. Jay Jay: The Chosen One

Friday | 4:30 PM | Africa Magic Family Ch 7

What if your greatest talent came from the most unexpected place?

In Jay Jay: The Chosen One, Austin dreams of becoming an exceptional footballer, but his journey takes an extraordinary turn when he begins training near the jungle. There, the animals teach him remarkable football skills and grant him special powers in exchange for one promise: to protect them whenever they’re in danger. Blending football, fantasy and adventure, it’s an inspiring story about courage, responsibility and chasing your dreams.

3. The River

Wednesday | 12:30 AM | Africa Magic Family Ch 7

The River follows two very different worlds that are bound together by family, ambition and long-buried secrets. On one side are powerful business families; on the other, a struggling township where lives are shaped by inequality and hardship.

As greed, betrayal and hidden truths begin to surface, every relationship is pushed to its breaking point. If you enjoy layered storytelling where every decision has consequences, The River is well worth your time.

4. Etiti

Friday | 8:30 PM | Africa Magic Showcase Ch 8

A wedding is supposed to mark the beginning of a new chapter. In Etiti, it becomes the beginning of a nightmare. On Jidenna and Chisom’s wedding day, a hidden betrayal and a chilling prophecy from an ageless priestess turn what should have been their happiest moment into their last. What follows is a gripping tale of mystery, tradition and the supernatural, where every revelation raises even more questions.

5. Husband Material

Saturday | 6:45 PM | Africa Magic Showcase Ch 8

Finding “the one” isn’t always as straightforward as it seems.

Husband Material follows young women as they meet and evaluate potential life partners, navigating personalities, expectations and unexpected chemistry along the way. It’s a refreshing take on modern relationships that proves choosing a husband can be just as entertaining as finding one. With heartfelt conversations, surprising moments and plenty of laughs, it’s the perfect weekend watch for anyone who enjoys relationship-focused reality shows.

Whether you’re rooting for someone to find love in Date My Family Nigeria, following Austin’s extraordinary journey in Jay Jay: The Chosen One, getting drawn into the power struggles of The River, uncovering the mysteries of Etiti, or watching sparks fly in Husband Material, there’s never a dull moment on Africa Magic.

Different stories, different characters, different reasons to keep watching. But they all have one thing in common, they know how to keep you coming back for the next episode.

Catch all these shows on Africa Magic, available on GOtv, and discover your next favourite.

To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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Zee World, Telemundo & Televista: The Telenovela Triangle on GOtv

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Every telenovela fan has a favourite; some live for the emotional rollercoaster of Zee World, where every episode feels like another test of love, loyalty and family. Others can’t resist Telemundo, where revenge is almost a love language and no secret stays buried for long. Then there are viewers who keep returning to Televista, drawn by stories that blend romance, culture and everyday realities in ways that feel surprisingly familiar.

The good thing is, on GOtv, you don’t have to pick anyone.

With Zee World, Telemundo and Televista all on one platform, there’s always another story waiting to pull you in. Whether you’re in the mood for impossible love stories, unexpected betrayals or family drama that hits close to home, the next binge-worthy episode is only a channel away.

Zee World: Where every emotion comes with a plot twist

Zee World has mastered the art of making viewers emotionally invested. One minute you’re celebrating a wedding, the next you’re questioning everyone’s motives. It’s a world where family bonds are constantly tested, love survives impossible odds, and every decision carries consequences that echo for generations.

Series like This is Fate, Twist of Fate, Radha Mohan and Sister Wives (airing everyday on Zee World)  have become household favourites because they know exactly how to keep audiences guessing. Just when it seems peace has finally arrived, another secret, misunderstanding or family conflict changes everything. It’s the kind of storytelling that makes viewers say, “Just one more episode,” until it’s well past bedtime.

Telemundo: Where calm never lasts for long

If suspense had a home, it would probably be Telemundo. Its stories move fast, emotions run high, and almost every episode ends with a revelation that sends the plot in an entirely new direction. Weddings are interrupted, alliances collapse overnight, enemies become lovers, and trusted friends suddenly become the biggest threat.

Shows like On the other side of the wall, Behind closed doors, All roads lead to love and Queen of hearts have built loyal audiences because they refuse to follow predictable storylines. Every episode leaves viewers with another mystery to solve and another cliffhanger they simply can’t ignore. It’s television that keeps your remote close, but your attention even closer.

Televista: Romance with a familiar heartbeat

Televista tells stories that feel a little closer to home. The romance is still there, but so are the everyday struggles, family expectations, friendships, ambition, heartbreak and the difficult choices that shape people’s lives. Its characters often feel less like larger-than-life heroes and more like people you could easily know.

Whether it’s navigating complicated relationships or overcoming life’s unexpected turns, Televista reminds viewers that the most memorable stories don’t always need extravagant twists. Sometimes they’re found in ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances. That’s what makes its dramas so easy to connect with.

Three channels with different storytelling but one destination

The beauty of GOtv’s telenovela lineup is that every mood has a channel to match. Some evenings call for the emotional intensity of Zee World. Other nights demand the suspense and unpredictability of Telemundo. And when you’re looking for stories rooted in love, family and culture, Televista is ready with another unforgettable episode. Different countries, different cultures, different storytelling traditions. Yet they all share one thing in common: they know exactly how to keep viewers coming back for more.

So whether you’ve already chosen a favourite or happily switch between all three, one thing is certain: on GOtv, the next unforgettable plot twist is always just one episode away.

To upgrade, subscribe or reconnect, download the MyGOtv App or dial *288#. For catch-up and on-the-go viewing, download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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