By Eric Elezuo

It was a moment of awe, pleasant surprises and appreciation at the Eko Hotels when leading telecommunications company, Globacom celebrated 15 years of bankrolling the the CNN African Voices Changemakers with the entertainment big wigs in attendance.

Held to showcase the magnificent efforts of the telecom giants in the projection of African talents to the world, the top-notch anniversary witnessed an array of performances by leading and budding artists, classical interviews and speeches from well meaning individuals from Globacom and CNN.

Among the major highlights of the event was the high profile interview with music icon, Yemi Alade, who followed the footsteps of the likes of Rema and Sarkodie, projecting their music and career trajectory. Alade is a Grammy-nominated artist, who has shown class and resilience in her career. The interview was conducted by Larry Modowo, who was the host on the night, and was followed by her performance of her hit song ‘Tomorrow’. The show, which was recorded in front of a live audience, will be aired on November 30 at a premier event on CNN International.

Among A-list dignitaries at the event were the Executive Vice Chairman, Globacom, Mrs. Bella Disu, who represented the Chairman, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr. Others were the Executive Vice President, CNN International Commercial (CNNIC), Mr. Phil Nelson; Managing Director, OJ&T, Country Representatives of CNN, Mrs. Omolola Akpata-Owolabi, in addition to other artistes and distinguished guests.

There were also other prominent personalities from across Nigeria and othwr lands in attendance, including but not limited to screen icon, Joke Silva, Samuel Animashaun Perry, aka  Broda Shaggi former African Voices guests, cultural icons, entrepreneurs, business leaders and influencers. Attendees enjoyed an evening of conversation, entertainment, and a behind-the-scenes look at the filming process.

African Voices Changemakers is one of CNN’s longest-running and most successful series, and according to CNN correspondent, ‘tells the stories of the continent’s thought-leaders, creatives, athletes, and entertainers who are at the forefront of change across Africa. The show also profiles Africa’s sporting stars in special African Voices Playmakers episodes and segments that additionally air in CNN’s flagship sport show World Sport.

“Alongside this on-air content, African Voices Changemakers is available across CNN’s digital and social platforms, with social-first My Drive videos and a dedicated playlist on Apple Music. Globacom is the exclusive sponsor of African Voices Changemakers across all platforms.”

Mrs Bella, who made a remark on behalf of Globacom, through the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, Ashok Israni, informed that Glo in collaboration with CNN has used the African Voices Changemakers to amplify voices that might otherwise have remained unheard, bringing to light the remarkable achievements of African entrepreneurs, artists, leaders, sportsmen and sportswomen, all of whom are changemakers.

He said “This sponsorship is more than just brand alignment; it has been a profound expression of our shared commitment to the transformative power of storytelling. And in partnering with CNN, we have helped ensure that Africa’s voices; its dreams, its challenges, and its triumphs, are broadcast to the world.”

The CNNIC Executive Vice President, Phil Nelson, in his speech noted, that “15 years of programming is a huge landmark and I’m pleased to celebrate it in Lagos with our longstanding commercial partners at Globacom, I thank them for our ongoing collaboration. This anniversary event for African Voices reaffirms CNN’s commitment to the series and to showcasing the richness, diversity, and dynamism of Africa on the global stage.”

He further eulogised the steadfastness Dr. Adenuga and the Glo brand in uplifting talents and creating a platform for the Voices of Africans to be heard via a world renowned podium.

African Voices Changemakers is a 30-minute magazine programme that highlights African stars in the film and music industry. 

The Programme shows on DSTV Channel 401 every Saturday at 8.30 a.m. and the show is repeated the same day at noon. Other repeats follow on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and 7.00 p.m., on Monday  at 4.00 a.m., and on Saturday next week at  8.30 a.m. and 12 noon. It will also air again on Sunday at 4.30 a.m. and  7.00 p.m. and on Monday  at 4.00 a.m.

Some guests who have appeared on the Glo-sponsored African Voices Changemakers program include:

Kaffy: The Nigerian dance queen and choreographer who led her group to break the Guinness World Record for “Longest Dance Party” in 2006. She also discussed how she has used her talents to empower young people and give back to her country.

Andrea Iyamah: The Nigerian-Canadian fashion designer and founder of the fashion label Andrea Iyamah. Her brand has been worn by celebrities like Michelle Obama, Kate Hudson, and Genevieve Nnaji.

Ruth Erikan James: The founder of the fashion brand Veekee James, which also expanded to include Veekee James Man for men’s wear and Shoprikan for women.

P-Square: The Nigerian singing duo of Peter and Paul Okoye who discussed their career, life, and reuniting after a breakup.

Senbanjo: A former women and children’s rights attorney who campaigned for the education of girls and the inclusion of women in national life.

Laolu: The designer of Beyoncé’s album, Lemonade.

Alabi: A music video director and winner of the 2019 Nigeria Entertainment Award for Music Video of the Year.

Odumegwu: A Nigerian professional linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL.

Ndubuisi: A defensive lineman for the Washington Commanders of the NFL.