Showbiz
Spotify Offers Nigerian Podcasters, Others $100k
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A first-of-its-kind podcast initiative in Africa aimed to support podcasters and further amplify their stories has been introduced by a top global streaming platform, Spotify.
The company is providing $100,000 for the scheme tagged Africa Podcast Fund, which will bolster the careers of these podcast creators through financial grants, workshops and networking opportunities.
It is offered to 13 creators from African countries with the biggest podcast listenerships, namely South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana.
The grant also includes a Cameroonian podcast with large listenerships both in France and in Francophone African countries, such as Cote d’Ivoire. Given the wide range of selected countries, the winning podcasts are recorded in a range of languages, including Pidgin, English, French, Sheng, Ga, and Twi.
The fund will be administered by Africa Podfest, a Kenyan-based company focused on inspiring and elevating African podcasters by building a sustainable and inclusive podcasting industry across Africa.
“Africa Podfest is excited about the development of podcasting in Africa, particularly because the medium allows underrepresented African voices to tell the story of Africa,” says Melissa Mbugua, Co-Director, Africa Podfest.
In Nigeria, the firm has picked the host of I Said What I Said, Feyikemi Abudu, an entrepreneur who is excited about helping small businesses to grow, and Jola Ayeye, a storyteller with a core interest in contemporary African culture.
Another podcaster chosen was Taymesan, who covers societal issues and personal experiences in a fun, light-hearted and entertaining way through Tea With Tay; and F&S Uncensored hosted by Feyikemi Akin-Bankole and Simi Badiru.
In Cameroon, a journalist and art collector, Diane Audrey Ngako, who hosts Si Maman M’avait Dit, which roughly translates to If my mom had told me, was picked for the initiative, and from Kenya, the Sandwich Podcast hosted by Joan, Kibz, Nyamita and Owen was picked.
Spotify also selected from the East African nation the hosts of the Messy Inbetween, Murugi Munyi and Lydia Mukami, for the scheme. Others include Mantalk.ke hosted by Kenyan creators Eli Mwenda and Oscar Koome; and Nipe Story hosted by Kevin Mwachiro.
Showbiz
Shows Serving Iconic Fashion Moments on Showmax
If you’re a fan of on-screen glamour and show-stopping fashion moments, Showmax has a trunk full of movies and series featuring cast that served unforgettable looks. From daring couture to timeless elegance, these shows are bound to help you improve your fashion sense.
Ready to immerse yourself in a world of glamour? Here are our top fashionable and diva-worthy picks
THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF LAGOS SEASON 1-2
This reality TV show delves into the luxurious lives of Lagos socialites, spotlighting their shopping sprees, glamorous parties, jet-setting adventures, and the unspoken competition within their elite circles.
Iyabo Ojo, Toyin Lawani, Laura Ikeji, and Chioma Ikokwu steal the spotlight, consistently delivering impeccable fashion moments. From haute couture to luxury streetwear, these ladies showcase high fashion and elegance, proving they’re as much trendsetters as they are power players.
The first Nigerian installment of this award-winning franchise, distributed internationally by NBCUniversal Formats, a division of Universal Studio Group, returned for a highly anticipated second season in September 2023, bringing even more drama, style, and opulence to the screen.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/nBnnf3UKJpo
THE REAL HOUSEWIVES OF ABUJA
The new series takes viewers into the extravagant lives of six influential and accomplished women in Abuja.
The cast includes Arafa, Comfort Booth, OJ Posharella, Princess Jecoco, Samantha Homossany, and Tutupie as they navigate their luxurious lifestyles, relationships, families, and businesses in the heart of Nigeria’s capital and beyond. These women bring ultimate diva vibes with every appearance, serving bold, glamorous, and trend-setting fashion moments that redefine fabulousness.
All episodes of The Real Housewives of Abuja are now available for your binge-watching pleasure!
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/xZBaxGEBnUw
STYLE MAGNATE
In Style Magnate, 20 talented designers embark on a month-long journey that will push their creativity, skill, and endurance to the limit. At the end of it all, only one designer will be crowned the winner and awarded a life-changing opportunity to launch their career as a designer for the stars.
Nigerian fashion designer and icon Mai Atafo, celebrated for his award-winning designs and expertise is on hand as the show’s Maestro. Hosting duties are expertly handled by Joseph Benjamin while Yolanda Okereke, a renowned stylist and costume designer for film and television, is the show’s Fashion Principal
Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WKNVu6UUYFk
SADAU SISTERS S1
Sadau Sisters follows the lives of actress Rahama Sadau and her three sisters – Aisha, Fatima, and Zaina – as they navigate the complexities of sisterhood while uncovering deep family secrets and dealing with past traumas.
Set against a backdrop of strong religious and cultural values, the show beautifully highlights the sisters’ impeccable fashion sense that blends both tradition and modernity. In the debut season, the sisters reunite in a new home and city, uncovering many revelations about their family. Stream Sadau Sisters now, with new episodes dropping every week.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/0iDlm4Xmz5s
FLAWSOME S1-2
Flawsome follows four friends—Ifeyinwa, Ramat, Ivie, and Dolapo—as they navigate personal and professional challenges.
In Season 2, their lives evolve through reconciliations, career struggles, and personal growth, all while looking absolutely fabulous and chic.
With Dami Elebe (Skinny Girl in Transit) as the head writer and Tola Odunsi directing, the new season promises even deeper drama and compelling storytelling.
Watch the trailer here: https://youtu.be/m4oAWBYVLaA
Head over to Showmax now and stream these stylish masterpieces. Sign up for Showmax.
Showbiz
Zyler Unveils AI-Powered Virtual Christmas Jumper
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A UK-based fashion technology company, Zyler, on Thursday, December 12, 2024, released a digital Christmas Jumper which can be worn for free for free using its fun AI-powered virtual try-on tool.
The alternative sweater was digitally designed by Zenaida Ossana, a talented 3D Artist and Fashion Designer with a rapidly growing following on Instagram.
Zenaida created the magical design using the new AI platform Neural Fashion and was inspired by seascapes and mermaids in her creative process.
“It was fun to work on this design knowing that many people might be able to see it and experience the potential of digital fashion for themselves,” the designer said.
“We think this is a fun use of AI tech, combining VTO and digital fashion to offer consumers an alternative way to participate in this phenomenon.
“We do also acknowledge that these technologies have an environmental footprint, however, we believe that responsible use of AI and digital design considerably outweighs the negative impact of overproduction and discarding of physical clothing,” Zyler’s innovation consultant and digital fashion expert, Karinna Grant, who led this project, explained.
The origin of the Christmas Jumper tradition can be traced back to 19th century Scandinavia where thick warm and brightly coloured jumpers were worn to escape from the cold.
More recently, Statista reported that on average 47 per cent of consumers worldwide enjoy ugly Christmas jumpers. However, that is not what motivated this project.
Zyler collaborated with Zenaida after being made aware of the shocking stats on the overconsumption of Christmas jumpers. True Origin reports that 12 million jumpers are purchased each year in the UK alone and 25 per cent of those are only worn once.
Research by environmental charity Hubbub found that 95 per cent of jumpers are made completely or considerably from synthetic materials. Generally, they are acrylic, and this means that they take over 200 years to decompose.
Consumers can try the jumper experience by visiting Zyler’s flagship Digital Dressing Room and in less than 90 seconds, they can see themselves wearing the distinct design.
Showbiz
Movie Classics You’ll Love to Watch This Holiday Season on GOtv
The holidays have a way of bringing out our inner child, don’t they? The twinkling lights, the aroma of jollof rice, and the irresistible pull of family traditions—all wrapped up in a comforting cocoon of nostalgia. GOtv is turning back the clock this festive season with a lineup of timeless classics that will take you down memory lane while providing bellyfuls of laughter, adventure, and joy. Here’s your guide to the throwback magic airing on GOtv Channel 3, M-Net Movies 4.
The Road to El Dorado
“Gold, glory, and endless laughs!”
Embark on an animated adventure that’s as gold-filled as it is hilarious. The Road to El Dorado follows two loveable rogues, Tulio and Miguel, as they stumble upon the legendary city of gold. With its vibrant visuals, catchy tunes, and laugh-out-loud moments, this film is a treasure trove of holiday fun. Perfect for anyone who wants a mix of humour, mischief, and heart. Don’t miss it on Monday, December 23rd, at 10:15 am.
Yogi Bear
“Who stole the picnic basket this time?”
Grab your picnic baskets and prepare for some “beary” funny antics with everyone’s favourite bear and his sidekick, Boo-Boo. Yogi Bear is the embodiment of cosy, family-friendly entertainment. Watch as the duo tries to save their beloved Jellystone Park in a story filled with clever schemes, laugh-out-loud moments, and warm holiday vibes. Tune in on Wednesday, December 25th, at 10:25 am.
Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me
“Groovy, baby!”
Yeah, baby, yeah! Kick up the festive fun with Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. This groovy comedy brings the laughs with its over-the-top characters, outrageous one-liners, and a dash of 60s flair. It’s not your traditional holiday movie, but it’s a wild ride that’s sure to inject some unexpected spice into your festive viewing schedule. Catch it on Monday, December 23rd, at 4:15 pm.
Shark Tale
“Underwater fun with a splash of laughs!”
What happens when you mix a talking fish, underwater mobsters, and Will Smith’s undeniable charm? You get Shark Tale—an underwater comedy adventure like no other. This late-night delight is packed with vibrant animation, catchy tunes, and an unforgettable message about staying true to yourself. Watch it on Monday, December 23rd, at 11:55 pm.
Daddy Day Care & Daddy Day Camp
“When dads take the reins, chaos follows!”
Who says dads can’t do it all? Eddie Murphy takes on the hilarious challenge of running a daycare in Daddy Day Care, while Daddy Day Camp sees the chaos ramp up in the great outdoors. These back-to-back comedies are brimming with laughable parenting mishaps, heartwarming moments, and plenty of holiday cheer. Back-to-back fun airs on Wednesday, December 11th, at 3:15 pm and 4:50 pm.
Relive the Joy Only on GOtv
Whether you’re looking to laugh, reminisce, or simply escape into a world of fun, GOtv’s festive lineup of throwbacks is your ticket to holiday bliss. Don’t miss the chance to make new memories with these classic gems.
Subscribe now to unlock a world of exciting entertainment! Take advantage of the GOtv Supa Plus Golden Window and pay just N13,900 instead of N15,700. Upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect via the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. For on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite classics anytime, anywhere.
Let the nostalgia flow and the laughter echo this festive season—it’s all happening on GOtv!
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