We’re back and better!
Dear Venturer,
We know that we’ve been a little quiet but we’re fully back now and want to share a quick update regarding what happened in 2020 and what Ventures Africa’s plans are for 2021.
Like most businesses, 2020 was an equally challenging year for us. But thanks to a dedicated team and amazing clients, the company was able to keep growing.
At the beginning of the year, we released a multimedia issue titled Is waste the future? followed by a series of feature articles and stories around some of the hottest topics in business, policy and innovation around Africa.
We had also just begun working on our next big issue before COVID-19 hit. When this happened, we had no choice but to make a few changes that included everyone working from home, efforts to improve our social media presence, website modifications and processes. Additionally, we launched the Ventures Africa Podcast- VA Pod, which features our original publications and women-centred news stories across Africa.
A timely return as we also celebrate women all over the world! #ChooseToChallenge
Felicia Omari Ochelle
Senior Editor, Ventures Africa.
What's new
HerStory: The VA Podcast
In the latest episode of HerStory, Facebook honors Africa’s leading women with a book launch, three African women make the 2021 International Women of Courage award list. This and more interesting stories. Listen to the full podcast here.
Why Nigeria’s economy is still unstable despite a sudden exit from recession
Ventures Africa interviewed an economic expert on the parameters for judging whether an economy is in or out of a recession, alongside factors that may determine positive economic trends post-recession. This article bears our conversation with Ibukun Opeodu, ICIR, Investor Relations Supervisor, Oando Plc. Read the full explainer here.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: The Fierce
We all need someone to inspire us. Sandra Bakare is a student who found that person in Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and has a lot to say about how this has shaped her journey so far. Read here.
Meet the sexologist on a mission to broaden the scope of sex education in Nigeria and Africa
In this interview, we talk about what it’s like being a sex educator in Nigeria, how she makes money, and what it takes to become a certified sexologist or sex educator.
Rising demand for migrant workers moves Kenya to vet employment agencies
A surge in demand for migrant workers abroad moved Kenya’s government to license over 300 recruitment companies to secure jobs for its citizens. Although the government exceeded its 240 annual benchmarks for the registration of recruiting companies, the agencies were made to undergo screening based on the government’s new regulations on labour export. Here is the full story.
At the end of 2020, we were able to:
Release a round up issue for the year 2020. Ventures Africa put a spotlight on unique individuals and businesses, who despite the pandemic and economic downturn made a difference by either creating local solutions or providing valuable services within their immediate communities. This collection of stories is also our very first VA Ladder issue- a compelling multimedia series. See the list of articles below:
Meet EBlack Jewel, the tailoring brand on a mission to restore credibility in Nigeria’s fashion space
Ventures Africa discovered EBlack Jewel, a unique men’s tailoring brand in Ogudu, Lagos, dedicated to changing the narrative about tailoring in Nigeria. During our chat with Ebieritei Itaita, the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of the startup, he emphasized that the brand seeks to establish trust and effective communication with customers while bringing their exact designs to life. Read the full interview here.
T Spices Kitchen takes us through the creation of food content while simplifying recipes for Nigerians
Oluwatosin Samuel is an accidental content creator who is creating simple food recipes for Nigerians on social media. In an interview with Ventures Africa she talks about building a thriving food brand and what keeps her going irrespective of certain challenges. Listen to our podcast discussion here. There is also an engaging article available via this link.
Pearl Recycling’s simple but creative approach towards tackling climate change in Nigeria
Pearl Recycling is a green innovation social enterprise whose aim is to create job opportunities through the creative reuse of solid waste. Click here to read more about the company’s work and what makes them unique.
How Omoregie Osakporlor is using photography to reserve culture and recreate stories of the average Nigerian
Lagos based documentary photographer, Omoregie Osakpolor is using his art for two core purposes-to preserve culture and to capture underreported stories of everyday Nigerians. Since venturing into this space, Osakplolor has shown exceptional interest in creating photo documentaries and films. Click here to read about him and view his works.
#VANUGGET
Remember to stay safe!
In light of the coronavirus pandemic, we hope that you’re keeping safe. Please observe social distancing, ensure to wear your face mask in public, regularly and thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol based sanitizer. Also, stay home if you feel unwell with symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty breathing.