BellaNaija at 20: Pedro Focuses On Nurturing, Emerging Talents

BellaNaija founder and Chief Executive Officer, Uche Pedro, has said the platform’s next phase will focus on supporting African voices and creating opportunities for emerging talent.

Speaking at the company’s 20th anniversary gala in Lagos on October 2, Pedro said BellaNaija would “champion African voices, create opportunities for emerging talent and continue telling stories that reflect the richness, ambition and possibilities of our continent.”

The event, held at The Federal Palace Hotel, marked 20 years since Pedro founded the digital media platform in 2006. It brought together figures from entertainment, fashion, media and business.

Pedro said the company had spent the past two decades reporting on African entertainment, fashion, entrepreneurship and social issues.

“Over the past twenty years, BellaNaija has had the privilege of documenting Africa’s extraordinary cultural evolution and amplifying the voices of the people shaping it. From entertainment and fashion to entrepreneurship and social impact, we’ve witnessed African creativity gain recognition on a global scale, and we’re proud to have played a part in that journey,” she said.

She described the anniversary event as a gathering of the platform’s audience and contributors.

“Our 20th anniversary gala was a celebration of the incredible community that has grown with us and the people whose stories have defined our platform,” Pedro said.

The gala was held under the theme, “High Fashion Icon.” Guests included Rita Dominic, Ayo Makun, Basketmouth, Bovi, Bucci Franklin, Dare Art Alade, Deola Art Alade, Denrele Edun, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Enado Odunsi, KieKie, Lanre Da Silva, Tola Odunsi, Toolz Oniru-Demuren and Uti Nwachukwu.

The event featured a red-carpet reception, with guests wearing African-inspired designs and couture outfits. It began at the Moët & Chandon Welcome Lounge before guests moved to the red carpet.

An MTN Prestige Lounge provided space for guests to relax, have caricatures drawn and take part in podcast conversations.

Jimmie Akinsanya hosted an after-party after the main event. Segun Johnson performed live, while Schweppes and Moët Hennessy provided drinks.

Pedro said the company’s commitment would remain unchanged as it entered its third decade.

“As we enter our third decade, our commitment remains unchanged: to champion African voices, create opportunities for emerging talent and continue telling stories that reflect the richness, ambition and possibilities of our continent,” she said.