Goge Africa, a trailblazing force in African tourism and culture, marked its momentous 25th anniversary with a dazzling inaugural edition of the FACE OF GOGE AFRICA (#FOGA) event. Held on March 23, 2024, at the picturesque Muri Okunola Park, the event was a resounding success, drawing together a diverse array of talent, influencers, industry leaders, and supporters.
The eco-tourism oasis of Muri Okunola Park was transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and celebration, showcasing the richness of Africa’s creative industries. The event attracted participants from the movie industry, music, comedy, fashion, arts, and tourism sectors, along with diplomats, government officials, and esteemed brands, creating an electric atmosphere of unity and cultural pride.
FOGA, an initiative designed to spotlight and nurture Africa’s emerging talents in fashion, art, and modelling on the global stage, featured 25 exceptional contestants from six African countries: Burundi, Togo, Ghana, Liberia, Gambia, and Nigeria. These talented individuals captivated the audience with their creativity, passion, and unique expressions of African heritage.
A distinguished panel of judges, including veteran Nollywood stars, fashion icons, and media personalities, meticulously evaluated the contestants through rigorous evaluations, fashion parades, and various contests. After much anticipation, five outstanding winners emerged, each earning prestigious prizes that included luxury travel experiences, cash prizes, and exclusive opportunities in the fashion and entertainment industries.
The winners of #FOGA2024 are as follows:
- Sandra Kaba from Liberia and Emeruem Kingsley Emeka: All-expense-paid trip to Gambia, courtesy of Gambian Tourism.
- Adebowale Idowu Victoria: Luxury Ship Cruise to the Bahamas, courtesy of Royal Caribbean.
- Adewale Mary: N1 million cash prize, courtesy of Goge Africa Foundation.
- Nwagu Eustess-Malcolm: To feature at Nigeria Fashion Week London, courtesy of Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, founder of Nigerian Fashion Week London.
Goge Africa reaffirmed its commitment to empowering African youth by pledging to mentor and train the winners in professional modeling, media, and tourism promotion. Additional perks of Naira 500, 000 were awarded to Miss Photogenic, Olanrewaju Zainab by GYMT, and Miss Friendly, Olaotomo Opeyemi, who will receive grooming and TV presentation opportunities with Goge Africa
The panel of judges at the Face of Goge Africa: Sola Shobowale, Emeka Ossai, Tricia Eseigbe Kerry, Juliet Orieche, Mary Jane, Efem Nkanga, Adanna Enwezor, Princess Kelechi Oghene.
The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Her Excellency Yan Yuqing – General Consul of the Peoples Republic of China in Nigeria, The Speaker of The Lagos State House of Assembly – Hon. Mudashiru Obasa was ably represented by Hon. Bonu Solomon – Chairman Lagos State House Committee on Tourism, Hon. Desmond Elliot, Dr. Angela Adamu – President of Association of Spouses of Nigerian Ambassadors (ASNA), representatives from the United Nations, and a star-studded lineup of celebrities such as Charly Boy Oputa, Joke Silva, Denrele Edun, Obuks Ibru, Ireti Doyle, Tee Mac, Fred Amata, Keppy Ekpeyong, Lilian Bach, Agatha Amata, Efe Omoregbe, Ralph Nwadike, Frank Edoho, Ifeanyi Oputa, Kingsley Ogoro, Tariboba Memberr and many more. Corporate Nigeria was well-represented by Access Bank, MTN, and other industry leaders, alongside government officials and international delegates.
We recognize legendary fashion designers Adebayo Adegbe, also known as Modela, Olutaller & Oluwatobi Akinwole – CEO & Creative Director ARAEWA Couture,Olamide Salami, also known as Ojuinu, Prince Idowu Akanni Oyefusi, CEO – Nobel Afrik & Former President of Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria, and Dan Chris Ebie for their support at the FOGA event.
Goge Africa expressed gratitude to all sponsors and partners who contributed to the success of FOGA, including MTN, ACCESS Bank, Lagos State, Ekiti State, Gambian Tourism Board, Nike Art Gallery, Royal Caribbean, Studio24, Association of Nigerian Ambassadors in Africa (ASNA), Actors Guild of Nigeria, GYMT, Nigeria Fashion Week London, Destination West Africa Project, Goge Africa Foundation, Destination Rivers, NANTA, NATOP, Skal Porthacourt, and TMCSL the event managers.
As Goge Africa continues its 25th-anniversary celebrations, the organization looks forward to hosting the grand finale of FOGA later this year at GOGE AFRICA FESTIVAL which promises an unforgettable culmination of talent, culture, and innovation.
For inquiries, please contact: +234 8186002000 or email; info@gogeafrica.tv
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings