Nollywood filmmaker, Mo Abudu has once again defined the word “power woman” as she clinches the most coveted Forbes Africa Bizwoman of the Year Award at the 2024 edition.
Sitting as the Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife Group, Abudu received this honor at the Forbes Africa which was held at the Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg on Friday, March 8th, coinciding with International Women’s Day.
Her exemplary leadership and achievement in the cooperate world have earned her countless awards including the Forbes Africa Bizwoman of the Year.
Under the visionary leadership of Abudu, EbonyLife Group has evolved into a formidable force within the entertainment sector, boasting an impressive portfolio of subsidiaries. These include EbonyLife Films, renowned for its groundbreaking productions; EbonyLife Studios, a hub for creativity and innovation; EbonyLife Creative Academy, nurturing the next generation of talent; and EbonyLife Place, a luxurious entertainment resort offering unparalleled experiences.
Through her strategic vision and unwavering dedication, Abudu has propelled EbonyLife Group to unprecedented heights, solidifying its position as a leader in the entertainment industry.
While receiving the Forbes Africa Bizwoman of the Year award, Abudu expressed her gratitude stating,
“Gratitude fills my heart as I share this remarkable news with you! Last night in Johannesburg, I was honored with the prestigious 2024 Businesswoman Of The Year Award at the Forbes Africa Women Award. To Forbes Africa, thank you so much! Your recognition is both humbling and empowering.”
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Mo Abudu’s Journey As Businesswoman and Media Mogul
With Abudu as an Executive Producer, EbonyLife Films has released notable productions that went on to become blockbusters. They include; The Wedding Party 1 and 2, Your Excellency among several other Netflix productions like Oloture, Wrath and Revenge, and Blood Sisters, which garnered over 11 million hours of viewing time and secured a spot in Netflix’s Global Top Ten list.
FinTech Telex recalls that she was recently listed as one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Global Television in a piece by The Hollywood Reporter. She further proves she’s a trailblazer and it doesn’t look like she’s stopping anytime soon.
Launching her global TV network, EbonyLife TV in 2013 which airs across Africa, the U.K. and the Caribbean, Abudu started her journey in the entertainment industry with a primary goal to dominate.
Recently, she curated the groundbreaking “Echoes of Africa” series at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, marking a historic moment as it was the first time African cinema was showcased in the institution’s storied history.
Abudu’s efforts in promoting African cinema on a global stage have significantly contributed to fostering cultural exchange and recognition for the continent’s vibrant film industry.
Forbes Africa Bizwoman of the Year’s commitment to nurturing African talents and fostering diversity in the media industry led to a groundbreaking partnership with Idris Elba’s Green Door Pictures. She also collaborated with other international production networks like Sony, AMC Networks, Netflix, Starz, Lionsgate, BBC, Westbrook Studios, and Will Packer Productions to further deepen her impact in the industry.
In a bid to inspire other women, Abudu mentioned “If you can think it, you can do it. Together, let’s continue to pave the path for generations to come.”
In 2021, she forged a remarkable partnership with Westbrook Studios, owned by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, to collaborate on a diverse slate of film and television projects, all intricately connected to the rich narratives of the African continent.
This collaboration reflects Abudu‘s commitment to showcasing the multifaceted stories and talents emanating from Africa on the global stage.
The media mogul was listed among the esteemed global elites of Forbes Most 100 Powerful Women, and Abudu’s impact extends beyond the entertainment industry.
In addition, Mo Abudu played a pivotal role in conceiving and bringing to fruition the Protea Hotel, Oakwood Park—an unprecedented achievement as the first-ever built hotel of its kind in Nigeria. Her visionary approach and commitment to innovation have left an indelible mark on the hospitality landscape in the country.
