Nigerian film powerhouses Mo Abudu and Funke Akindele have garnered significant international acclaim, securing positions on The Hollywood Reporter’s esteemed list of “Most Influential Women in International Film.”
The prestigious magazine recognised 46 extraordinary women from around the globe for their remarkable impact on the global film industry.
In their announcement on Friday, May 9th, The Hollywood Reporter highlighted the ongoing struggle for equity in the entertainment world, noting that progress remains fragile in various regions.
The magazine emphasised the critical importance of celebrating these 46 global leaders amidst these challenges.
Profiling Mo Abudu, the British-Nigerian founder of EbonyLife Media, The Hollywood Reporter underscored her multifaceted contributions, from producing local box office hits like The Wedding Party and Òlòtūré to forging global partnerships with streaming giants Netflix and Sony.
The magazine also highlighted her recent launch of the $50 million Afro Film Fund in 2024 and the upcoming EbonyLife Place London, a cultural hub slated to open by the end of the year.
Abudu’s advice to young women, as quoted by the publication, is to “Stay focused, be authentic and find your own voice.” Her inclusion underscores her pivotal role in amplifying African narratives and fostering international collaborations.
Turning the spotlight on Funke Akindele, The Hollywood Reporter celebrated her diverse talents as an actor, writer, director, and producer. Known for her record-breaking Nollywood productions, the magazine specifically mentioned her 2024 Nigerian box office success, Everybody Loves Jenifa (the third installment in her popular comedy franchise), as a testament to her comprehensive creative approach.
As the CEO of the Funke Akindele Network (FAAN), she champions authentic Nigerian stories and advocates for control over their representation, stating, “It’s about owning and empowering our narrative.”
Overwhelmed with gratitude, Funke Akindele shared her heartfelt appreciation on her Instagram page, reflecting on the profound meaning of this global recognition.
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