Biola Alabi is a renowned Nigerian businesswoman with a multifaceted career that has left an indelible mark on the media and entertainment industry. As the CEO of Biola Alabi Media (BAM), she has played a pivotal role in producing compelling content for the Nigerian market. Let’s delve into her inspiring journey, accomplishments, and impact.
Personal Stats
| Full Name | Biola Alabi |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | N/A |
| State of Origin | Nigerian |
| Parents | Daughter of Nigerian parents |
| Occupation | Businesswoman, CEO of Biola Alabi Media (BAM) |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Citizenship | Nigerian |
| Alma Mater | University of Cincinnati, Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, Yale University’s Jackson Institute of Global Affairs |
Early Life And Education
Biola Alabi was born in the United States to Nigerian parents. She is the eldest among four children, with her father hailing from Akure, Ondo State, and her mother from Ilesa, Osun State. Her educational journey took her to the University of Cincinnati, where she earned a degree in Public and Community Health. She further honed her skills through programs at prestigious institutions like Harvard University‘s Kennedy School of Government and Yale University’s Jackson Institute of Global Affairs.
A Versatile Career
Biola Alabi’s career is a testament to her versatility and leadership prowess. She started as an on-air personality with Independent Television and Radio Benin before making her mark in the media landscape. Her early career included serving at Hitfm Calabar, which laid the foundation for her journey.
In the United States, she was part of the executive team at the influential children’s television brand Sesame Street. She also contributed to the marketing team that launched the Korean motor vehicle corporation Daewoo in the USA. Her diverse experiences both in Nigeria and the United States equipped her with valuable insights and skills.
M-Net Africa And Africa Magic
One of the significant chapters of Biola Alabi’s career was her role as the Managing Director for M-Net Africa, a part of the globally renowned Naspers Group. During her tenure, she made remarkable contributions to the African media landscape. Alabi was instrumental in launching seven Africa Magic channels, including indigenous language channels such as Africa Magic Yoruba and Hausa. Her visionary approach led to the development of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, often referred to as the “African Oscars.”
Angel Investor And Advisor
Beyond her achievements in the media industry, Biola Alabi has ventured into the African technology and media startup ecosystem. She serves as an angel investor and advisor, supporting innovative ventures in the fast-growing landscape. Her investments include companies like Trove Technologies and Chekkit, showcasing her commitment to fostering entrepreneurship.
Corporate Boards And Leadership
Biola Alabi is no stranger to corporate boardrooms. She holds the position of Non-Executive Director at Unilever Nigeria PLC, contributing her insights to a prominent multinational company. She also serves as a member of the board of directors at Monty Mobile and holds the influential role of Chairwoman at Big Cabal Media, a digital media company.
Biola Alabi Media (BAM)
In 2015, Biola Alabi founded Biola Alabi Media (BAM), a production company dedicated to creating content for broadcasting stations, digital industries, and entertainment distribution platforms. BAM’s commitment is to tell African stories to the world. One of BAM’s initial TV shows, “Bukas and Joints,” garnered widespread recognition and was rated as the most-watched TV food show across the country.
Filmography
Biola Alabi’s influence extends to the film industry. BAM’s productions, including “Banana Island Ghost” and “Lara and the Beat,” have resonated with audiences and contributed to the vibrant Nigerian film landscape.
Awards And Recognition
Biola Alabi’s accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. She has been honored and recognized on multiple occasions, including being named one of the “20 Youngest Power Women in Africa” by Forbes Magazine. She has also been selected as a “Young Global Leader” by the World Economic Forum. Her contributions were acknowledged when she received the “West African Business Woman of the Year” award from CNBC Africa’s AABLA. In 2014, she was named a Yale World Fellows Recipient and featured in the “Financial Times’ top 100 global female executive” list in 2018.
Biola Alabi’s journey exemplifies the heights that determination, leadership, and vision can achieve. Her commitment to media, entrepreneurship, and mentorship has made her a trailblazer and a source of inspiration for many in Nigeria and beyond.
