The Voice magazine

ISSN:2588-8807

ISSN:1571-3466

Motto: Actuated towards Africa’s advancement

Volume 20. NO. 178. November 2018

www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thenigerianvoice.com

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First complete African magazine published in The Netherlands since August 1999

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Program

The Voice Magazine Volume 20. No 178 November 2018 Edition

The Voice Achievers Award 2018 Day One 22nd November 2018

4.00pm - Doors open to Guests Arrivals and registration Introduction of Evening ceremony Introduction of businesses, visitation to stands, presentations Musical interlude Discussion: Theme: “Reinventing Africa’s Future Now” Introduction of Moderator Moderator invites & introduces Panelists Public interactions Diner with light music Closing remarks Dance! Dance !! Dance !!!

Music by DJ Erick Dava

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The Voice Achievers Award 2018 Day Two 23rd November 2018

4.00pm - Doors open to Guests Arrivals and registration Introduction of Evening ceremony (Masters of Ceremony) Spoken Word presentation Musical interlude - Djembe Band Zamana Fashion show by Grogo Fashion & Mafcouture Fashion AWARD PRESENTATIONS Musical interlude Award Speech by Originator Dinner served with light music entertainment Partying Music by DJ Ray Thank you all for coming. See you in 2019

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Our Journey so far.....

It is with my greatest delight and pleasure I present to you this short information on the journey of The Voice magazine, an idea that started over 19 years ago. I want to give you a brief insight into the project and what we have done and continue to do, it is what I have come to term the journey of hope.

This journey is 19 years on and I am grateful to God as I look back to how we started, it wasn’t easy and the journey continue to face different challenges as we journey on but once we step on the journey, we have not looked back but continued on the journey. We are where we are today because of collective efforts of various individuals, on the journey we have loss some members, some new persons have joined us but one thing for sure, we are have not arrived yet at our destination, we are still on our way.

When I woke up with the dream of starting the Voice magazine, apart from my wife, Sandra who shared in my vision, my good friend and brother, Edward Ogbee, not many shared our enthusiasm, everyone had wondered how we could as immigrants survived the lop-sided world of information gathering and dissemination, more especially when it revolves around Africa. The idea was mostly negative.

Actually to start this journey apart from the passion as a Journalist and adventurer to explore every opportunity available to me, the huge financial involvement to start a publication of this magnitude was enormous but it is not unsurmountable with a will there is a way. Just coming out of salary earning environment, just married, expecting my first child, it was not the appropriate time to think of starting a project like this but if it was not then, it would probably would never take off. Every resources at my disposal including the savings of my wife was put into the first publication which was released on 12th August 1999. The rest is now history.

The Voice magazine arrived at a time in 1999 when there was practically nothing to refer as to as news medium for Africans in The Netherlands.

The best that was done was few newsletters but they did not survived.

Many Africans did not speak Dutch language, all news items was done Pastor Elvis Iruh and published in

Editor-in-Chief

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Dutch. The Voice magazine became a mouth piece and a relief to thousands of Africans as we saw the sales figure increased monthly.

Through our modest effort, we have inspired other Africans to dare step out and today we are proud to say we have more Africa oriented media organizations from Newspapers, Magazines, Radio & Television stations, Online broadcasting channels and countless newsletters. All of these media are run and directed

by Africans.

19 years with a revolving formidable team we have not only proved our cynics wrong but we have emerged as a medium platform to be reckoned with through our consistent publication and keep up with the media trend. It happened because we made ‘hope’ our companion in our journey and many of you have supported us on this journey this far.

The Voice magazine has become that instrument of change among the African communities and today others see and look at us differently, the change came about because we dare to dream and rose to the occasion when they said it was not possible, we did our best and the rest God did for us.

The Voice has undergone changes structurally and it will continue to keep abreast with the media trend globally. In 2015, we started gradually going digitally as we saw the world moving towards the digital age. We have completed the transition and we are fully now a digital magazine. Each month you get your edition via your email and through other social media platforms.

Without any doubt in our minds we know the Voice magazine will continue to perform the role of an agent of positive change and we would continue to inspire Africans and for that reason we started the Voice Achievers Award 9 years ago to mark our anniversary and celebrate our successful stories.

The award is to inspire those who receive it to do more for prosperity while those who are yet to be recognized to know that they are been watched and their own time will come.

Our dream is to continue to remain relevant in the lives of Africans and non-Africans alike, to continue to use the media as instrument of change, development and progress in advancing the course of Africa.

Thank you once again for all your supports over the years and together we would celebrate more years of successes. Knowing fully well that ‘hope’ will bring about the change we need in Africa as we work together towards it.

At your Service Pastor Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh Founder, Publisher The Voice magazine Originator, The Voice Achievers Award Almere, The Netherlands.

November 23rd 2018

The Voice magazine The Voice magazine is editorially independent although we enjoys the support of our readers, subscribers, advertisers, non-­ governmental organizations and in­dividuals of like minds; however the magazine publishers are in no way af­ filiated to any of these bodies or to any other ­publishing institution or political interest or group.

The Voice magazine strives to foster awareness among the African audience and bridge the widening gap between Africans and the rest of the world in news gathering and dissemination.

The Voice is published digitally online except on demand, we print hard copy..

If you wan to receive a copy, send us your email address.

On the Editorial board are Elvis Iruh, Jonathan Mgbejume, Sandra Iruh-Monsels, and Henry Oduenyi READ THE VOICE ON LINE AT www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com Our Affiliate partner: www.thenigerianvoice.com Registration NO: (Kvk. Nr. 34.110.928) TAX (BTW) NO: NL806215809B01 ISSN: 1571-3466 (For Print edition) ISSN: 2588-8807 (For Digital edition) For payments, use these bank details: Stichting Paddi Europa SNS Bank Account No: NL29SNSB0908374372 Swift Code: SNSBNL2A OR Stichting Paddi Europa Knab Bank Account No: NL77KNAB0725202238 Swift Code: KNABNL2H

THE VOICE MAGAZINE TEAM Publisher: Stichting Paddi Europa Editor-in-Chief Pastor Elvis Ndubuisi Iruh elvisiruh@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Founding/Contributing Editor Edward Idahosa Ogbee apexbest2000@yahoo.co.uk Managing Editor Henry D. Oduenyi (Nigeria Office) henry@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Project Coordinator Ifeyinwa Ezeagabu i.ezeagabu@thevoicenewsmagazine. com Advert Executive Faith Ehanire ehanire4607@gmail.com Project Editor (Nigeria) Chiedu Harris Ify harrisbok4real@gmail.com BUREAU CHIEFS Gbenga T. Okunlola (London) teejayok@gmail.com Joel Savage (Belgium) juskosave@yahoo.com Femi Ikutiyinu (London) afpaprint2000@yahoo.com Middle East Vice- President Amb. Laila EL Aftani Rahhall CORRESPONDENTS ABROAD Nicholas Noghayin Ehioghiren (Madrid, Spain) nicholasmicnita@yahoo.com Barrister Eze Eluchie (Nigeria) paddingr@yahoo.com Kehinde Aig-Imoru (Nigeria)

aigimoru@yahoo.com Rev. Tammy Abusi (Port-Harcourt) t.abusi@thevoicenewsmagazine.com Eubaldus Enahoro enabadus2000@yahoo.com Principal Photo Editor: Handy Tims Azeez Badris fatim_26@hotmail.com PA to Publisher Lilian Akintokun (Mrs) raven_lilian@yahoo.com Graphic Designers David Banjoko Wil Gomersbach (Web Master) George Adegite Printer: Drukkerij Palteam www.palteam.nl MEDIA CONSULTANT Jonathan Mgbejume Abeka Salmin Abdallah Mildred Kleinbussink Pastor Duncan Spier Engr. Barry Igbeare You can as well contact our Office Address: Stichting Paddi Europa Inz The Voice Jeroen Boschplantsoen 82 1318 HH Almere The Netherlands Land Line: +3136-8801341 Tel.: +31 (0)6-48519292 Mobile: +31 (0)6-84999548 E-mail: info@thevoicenewsmagazine.com www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

The Voice magazine is published in the Netherlands by Stichting Paddi Europa and it is p ­ ublished online from 2016 around the world. It is registered at the Chamber of Commerce Amsterdam. The Voice aim to serve as a vital link among African readers in the Diaspora and we ­provide ­objective information and organizes opinion exchange among African people both in the ­continent and abroad. Thus it strives to foster and enhance complete understanding of ­developing c­ ountries problems and bring information to help address those issues. TV

Volume 20

NO 178

November 2018 www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Nigeria

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odwin Obaseki was born 1 July 1959 in Benin City, Nigeria. He is the Executive Governor of Edo State of Nigeria. He was sworn in as Governor on 12th November, 2016. He was the Chairman of the Edo State Economic and Strategy Team inaugurated by former Governor Adams Oshiomole in March 2009 before he was elected as Executive Governor.

Obaseki holds post graduate degrees in both Finance and International Business and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stock Brokers, Nigeria. Governor Obaseki served as executive board member of several private companies including Afrinvest.

He is the third child of Late Pa Roland Obaseki and Gbinigie of Owina Street, Ogbelaka Quarters, Benin City.

He attended St. Matthew’s Primary School for his primary education and proceeded to Eghosa Grammar School, in Benin City, for secondary education.

Governor Obaseki thereafter proceeded to the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Classics. He served in Jos, Plateau State for his mandatory one year National Youth Service. He later left Nigeria for the United States to attend Columbia University and Pace University in New York, where he obtained an MBA in Finance and International Business.

Governor Obaseki is the founding secretary, (1992), of a USbased Africa Chamber of Commerce. He was also a Director of Junior Achievement of Nigeria – the local affiliate of international Not For Profit Organisation.

Governor Obaseki began his career as a stockbroker in 1983 with Capital Trust Brokers Limited, Lagos. He later transferred his services to the International Merchant Bank. He moved to AVC Funds Limited, Lagos, in 1988, where he served as a Project Manager. He moved back to New York and worked as a Principal of Equatorial Finance Company, a Financial Advisory firm. He focused on Africa and provided Structured Trade Finance for African-related transactions.

In 1995, Godwin Obaseki founded Afrinvest West Africa Limited (formerly Securities Transactions & Trust Company Limited (SecTrust), which has grown to become one of the most reputable investment banking and management firms in Nigeria.

Before becoming the Edo State Governor, Obaseki served as Chairman of the Economic and Strategy Team (EST)[3]. In that capacity, he pioneered a number of policy reforms that saw the state restructure its public finance, secure funding for infrastructure and improve the business environment to attract investment in power, agriculture and other critical sectors.

Obaseki was also instrumental in attracting the Edo-Azura power 6

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project, with support from World Bank to the state.

For seven years in the administration of Governor Adams Oshiomhole, his predecessor, he served as voluntary Chairman of the Edo State Economic and Strategy Team as well as Chairman of Tax Assessment Review Committee for Edo State Internal Revenue Service (TARC) and the Committee on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), respectively.

He was Secretary of the Committee on the Implementation of the Law Establishing the present Edo University, Iyamho, and member of the Committee on Contributory Pension Scheme and Edo SEEFOR/DPO Steering Committee, respectively.

Before serving at the sub-national level, Obaseki served on the Presidential Committee on the Reform of the Nigerian Pension System, which facilitated the introduction of the contributory pension scheme and other novel pension reforms.

He also served on the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission Committee on the Re-activation of the Nigerian Bond Market and the review of the Investment and Securities Act. Between 2006 and 2009, he served as a member of the Nigerian Stock Exchange Council.

He is a Trustee of the Dr Jackson Owen Obaseki Foundation, a family-owned Non-Governmental Organization NGO. Since assuming duty as Executive Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has enacted projects with the aim of making the state an investment hub. Such projects, include: The Benin River Port Project (Gelegele Seaport), The Benin Industrial Park, Modular Refinery Project, Technology hubs and Edo Jobs.

Asides his infrastructural projects, he has also enacted a number of social development initiatives. The state government is building about 200 Primary Healthcare Centres. Obaseki’s focus in the health sector is to develop a viable primary healthcare system to provide affordable and accessible health care services to people in the state. He is also pioneering a state-backed health insurance scheme to provide a robust sector that will attract private investors.

In education, Obaseki launched the Edo Basic Education Transformation (Edo BEST) programme, an initiative to train and equip public school teachers with top-of-the-range skills and expertise for deploying Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in classrooms to improve learning outcomes.

There is also a strong emphasis on technical education, which led to the revamping of the Government Science and Technical College (formerly Benin Technical College) to train workforce in the state.

He has also contributed to the fight against human trafficking and illegal migration to Europe and elsewhere around the world.

Governor Obaseki is married to First Lady Betsy Obaseki, a financial expert. She holds BSc. and MSc. in Accounting from the University of Lagos, and an alumnus of the Keliog’s School of Business Executive Management Programme, USA and they are blessed with children.

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Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu

he is the First Lady of Ondo State, Nigeria Mrs. Betty AnyanwuAkeredolu was born on 20 July, 1953, to the family of Chief BUB and Nneoma Dora Anyanwu, in Emeabiam, OwerriWest, in Imo State of Nigeria.

She is an aquaculturist, philanthropist, and the First Lady of Ondo State in Nigeria.

She is married to Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu.

She is the founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria.

Mrs. Anyanwu-Akeredolu attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka where she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in zoology in 1977. She holds a Master of Science degree in Fisheries, major in Aquaculture, from the University of the

Philippines Visayas in Iloilo City.

She began her career as a Fisheries expert while working with the Federal Department of Fisheries. She retired in 2005. She is a commercial fish farmer and provides consultancy services through her firm, Aquatek Farms Ventures. In addition, she has made a foray into politics since 2007 and she is active in the present dispensation (2018).

In 1997, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She underwent treatment and survived. She started the nonprofit organization, Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) to raise awareness of the disease. She has won awards in recognition of her work and commitment in the fight against breast cancer in Nigeria.

She is also a grandmother and she takes her role as a grandmother very seriously: Her marriage to Mr. Rotimi, produced four children identified as Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (Jnr), Dr. Teniola Akeredolu, Mrs.Yejide Runsewe and Babajide Akeredolu. One of them (Rotimi Jnr) has a son with his wife and Mrs Betty plays the adorable grandmother role very well. She supports her husband every step of the way: Her Facebook page is littered with pictures of her husband’s campaign, both from the previous election in 2012 and the 2016 election.

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eorge Wachiuri is the founder and C.E.O of Optiven Group.

He holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing Option) and is a Certified Public Accountant CPA (K). He is an astute Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Motivational Speaker, Lecturer and serves as a Church Elder. He currently sits as a board member at the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and is a Board Director at Kenya Private Developers Association (KPDA) where he serves as an advisor at the land sector board. As an entrepreneur, George is the Chairman and Trustee, Optiven Foundation. George is also a family man and a renowned author of bestselling books; ‘Soaring like an Eagle’, ‘Unleash your full Potential’ and ‘Heal our Land’.

George Wachiuri

He is currently a PhD student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. George plans to author 45 Books in his lifetime.

Under his stewardship, Optiven was crowned the Overall winner in Top 100 Mid-Sized Companies Survey, 2014/2015 by KPMG and Nation Media Group. Optiven was also crowned the Best Company in Customer Orientation & Marketing in Kenya (COYA AWARDS) - 2015.

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Miatta Fahnbulleh

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iatta Fahnbulleh is a Liberian but lived in United States of America for many years. She is a song writer, singer, composer, recording artiste, producer, media practitioner, mother, grandmother, public speaker and a vocal activist…. She is widely traveled and vastly experienced. She is a crusader of African music renaissance.

Mama Miatta as she is popularly called is an A-class musician and performer. She has worked and performed world-wide with the best of the world’s musicians. She is a firm believer in the unity and advancement of the African continent through music.

Miatta is a humanitarian dedicated to the cause of African children, especially the female child, ravaged by the politics of war, deprivation, hunger and poverty. Miatta runs OBAAS Girls Educational outreach in Liberia providing Educational opportunities and mentoring to girls and boys.

At this point in time, she is based in Liberia, she has previously lived in Kenya, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, UK, & U.S.A.

Known fondly and professionally as Patti Boulaye, she was born Patricia Ngozi Komlosy, on the 3rd day of May 1954 in Midwestern part of Nigeria.

She is currently a visiting Teaching Fellow at Middlesex University.

She recently released her autobiography “The Faith of a Child”, a remarkable, moving and exciting story that charts her gripping life story through wealth, poverty and civil war, to “show business” stardom and success in Britain and her birth country Nigeria.

At the age of 16, Patti’s life changed when she came to London and made her West End debut in the musical “Hair.” She featured in “Two Gentlemen of Verona” and her first starring role was as “Yum Yum” in “The Black Mikado”, blazing the trail for other black performers in the burgeoning British entertainment industry of the time.

After Patti’s starring role in the African movie “Bisi, Daughter of the River” – arguably the biggest grossing African Movie ever made she came to prominence as a singer, winning the British ITV talent show,

Miatta keeps recording, performing and getting involved with advocacy for her pet projects across the West African sub-region.

Miatta Fahnbulleh remains one of Africa’s finest voices” says Andrew Hamilton. And it is our honour to recognize her at this year’s award 2018. Congratulations to you, Mama Miatta Fahnbulleh

“New Faces”, where she made history by becoming the only contestant ever to receive the maximum 120 points from the tough panel of judges. Patti’s victory on New Faces led to appearances on stage, film and television, including the starring role in “The Music Machine,” “Carmen” in “Carmen Jones” (The Old Vic and World tour) and Royal Command Performances. In 1984, she had her own series, “The Patti Boulaye Show” on Channel 4. In 2014, Patti received the Freedom of the City of London and in January 2016 she was awarded an OBE for her charity work in the UK & SubSaharan Africa.

Patti is a Governor of BADA (the British American Drama Academy) affiliated with Yale and Oxford Universities.

She’s a Member of the Advisory Board for IMAN Foundation Worldwide, promoting World peace and dialogue. Congratulations Patti, on your investiture as a “Life time Achievers award” recipient for your invaluable contributions to music and entertainment industry as a whole and making Africa the envy of the world.

Dr. Patti Boulaye, OBE

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Pastor Chuks Anizor

astor Chuks Anizor hails from Idumuje-Ugboko, in Delta State, Nigeria.

He studied Sociology at the University of Port- Harcourt, Rivers State Nigeria.

Pastor Chuks, like his wife was trained under the intercessors for Nigeria as a missionary intercessor. They are the coordinators of transfiguration experience ministry in Nigeria.

He was ordained an African prayer school teacher by the leadership of intercessors for Africa in Johannesburg, South Africa in 1999. Pastor Chuks has a special mandate from God for Africa, particularly East Africa. He has done

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revivals and crusades in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

His attraction is not to the posh places of the earth but insist on the hinterlands where the gospel of hope is non-existent.

He is a powerful teacher of the word and an encourager to the younger generation of preachers of the gospel. Pastor Chuks Anizor is presently overseeing several churches in Nigeria with the headquarters in Asaba, Delta State, Nigeria.

His vision is to see the world changed with the power of the Holy Spirit and a new revival outbreak with younger generation going all out for Jesus Christ.

loria Jones was born on October 19th, 1945 in Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America. Gloria Jones has always known the healing power of music.

She is a daughter of a minister. She started singing in her father’s church at the tender age of 3 and continued when the family moved to Los Angeles, 4 years later.

At 14, while still at school, she joined with Frankie Kahrl and Billy Preston to form a gospel group the Cogic Singers, with whom she recorded the album ‘It’s a Blessing’.

By 1964, Gloria had joined forces with songwriter Ed Cobb; signing with Cobb’s Greengrass Productions. She recorded her first hit, “Heartbeat Pts 1 & 2,” which Cobb wrote and produced. At this time, she also recorded the song that would later see her crowned as the Queen of England’s Northern Soul music scene, another Cobb penned number, the classic Tainted Love.

Gloria, who graduated with an advanced classical degree (primarily in the works of Bach), released her first album, Come Go With Me and appeared in the original Los Angeles production of the musical, Hair, as well as performing with Jerry Lee Lewis and The Blossoms in the musical version of Othello, and Catch My soul.

It was whilst performing in “Hair” that Gloria met Pam Sawyer, a friendship that would lead her to the legendary Motown studios, where she would write hits for The Commodores, The Four Tops, The Jackson 5, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Gladys Knight and The Pips (including the 1971, Grammy nominated If I Were Your Woman). After releasing her own album, Share My Love, Gloria left Motown at the end of 1973.

Gloria continued her musical career and in 2014 she was

Gloria Jones proud to be part of the Oscar winning documentary 20 Feet from Stardom.

A true world citizen, Gloria has lived all over the United States and Europe, but it was when she visited Sierra Leone that she finally felt she was home. Gloria is now based in the town of Makeni where she has founded The Marc Bolan School of Music and Film.

In Liberia, a country scared by civil war and more recently the devastating Ebola outbreak, the school is a proof of the healing power of music with dozens of students being given the chance to develop their confidence and expand their creativity.

Gloria is an accomplished singer, song writer and humanitarian extraordinary. Congratulations on your life time achievers Award 2018. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Celebration OF SUCCESS

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Emeka Okonkwo (Alias E-Money)

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meka Okonkwo who is better known by his fame name E-Money is a Nigerian industrialist. He’s the chief executive of Emmy Cargoes Limited. He is the brother of KCee (A renowned Nigerian Musician), the Managing Director of Five Star record label.

Emeka Okonkwo’s rise to fame is not only due to his regular display of affluence on social media, but his benevolence has endeared him to many.

His humanitarian acts include, helping several indigent people in deprived communities, through the provision of educational scholarships. He has also helped many others to establish start-up businesses to get them out of poverty.

Emeka Okonkwo was born on February 18, 1981 in Ajegunle Lagos where he attended his primary and secondary school education. He was not born into wealth but as he grew older, he vowed to work hard enough to change his life and the lives of in his immediate community.

His business interests include international cargo business, oil and gas ventures and he is also the C.E.O of Five star Music that produced artistes like KCee (The Limpopo crooner), Harry Song, and Skibi.

He continues to do his charitable works quietly without media attention.

er Excellency, Ambassador Vestine Nahimana is a skilled negotiator and an advocate for women’s rights. She has worked in several capacities representing the government of her country as well as NGOs and companies. Her professional ambition have led her to serving her society in multiple capacities in different countries, thereby placing her on the part of continuous self-improvement through professional and educational trainings.

Her academic accomplishments include International Finance and Diplomacy, MINI MBA (SWISS UMEF UNIVERSITY); Institute of Diplomacy and International Studies, Zambia and Ambassador Vestine Nahimana of Burundi BTS (Patent Upper Technician), in Law, economy; Administration She is proficiently skilled in analyticals, President of the National Communication Council (Ministerial Organization, Time management, Diplomacy, Communication, rank) in Bujumbura, Burundi from 2008 to 2011.

Multi-cultural interaction and Interpersonal.

She has held several other positions rising through the ranks to She has been serving as the Ambassador Extraordinary and be where she is today. She is an accomplished Humanitarian Plenipotentiary for Embassy of the Republic of Burundi, The who loves to see her people succeed in their endeavors.

Hague, The Netherlands since 2013. Today, she is one of the Despite the challenges that her country has gone through, she is longest serving African Ambassadors in The Netherlands. full of optimism that the future is bright for her country and an Between 2012 to 2013, she was the Chargé d’affaires, Embassy expectant full integration with the rest of the world. of the Republic of Burundi in Lusaka, ZAMBIA. She speaks her mother tongue, Kirundi and proficient in Between 2011 to 2012, she was second Counsellor, Embassy French, English and Swahili of the Republic of Burundi in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She was Ambassador Vestine Nahimana is married with three children.

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r Osahon Enabulele is a Consultant Citizens’ Health and Good Family Physician, trailblazer, Leadership Development. He strong mobilizer, writer, an was a Delegate at the 2014 unrepentant Social crusader, and a Health, National Conference organized Human and Civil Rights Activist. He was by the Federal Government born in Uselu, Egor Local Government of Nigeria to restructure the Area of Edo State, Nigeria, on the 29th Nigerian federation. He is day of January, 1971 and attended Victory currently serving a second Primary School, Benin City, Edo State term (2013-2016; 2016-2019) (1977-1982). as the Vice President of the Dr Enabulele was admitted into Federal Commonwealth Medical Association; CMA (representing Government College, Wukari, Taraba the West African Region in state, Nigeria, where he had his secondary the CMA Executive Body). education (1982-1988).

Dr Enabulele is an Associate In 1988, Dr Enabulele was admitted Member of the World Medical to study Medicine at the University of Association and was an Elected Benin. Upon completion of his University Delegate/Representative of education, Dr Enabulele had his Internship/ Associate Members of the Housemanship training at the University of Dr Osahon Enabulele World Medical Association Benin Teaching Hospital before proceeding (WMA) at the 66th General to Cross-River State for his National Youth Assembly of the World Medical Service Corps (NYSC) program.

Association, held in Moscow, In his quest for expansion of his professional horizon, Dr Enabulele went on to secure a Masters’ Degree Russia (October 2015). in Health Planning and Management (MHPM) in 2001. He Dr Enabulele is currently the Chairman of NMA’s National also bagged the Fellowship of the West African College of Disciplinary Committee. He is a Life Member of the Society of Physicians (FWACP) in 2007 after a successful pursuit of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON). He is also a Member a Residency Training Program in Family Medicine at the of the Accreditation Team, Faculty of Family Medicine, West University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Dr Enabulele African College of Physicians. was appointed as a Consultant Family Physician in the He has won countless awards in his illustrious career and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) in November awards keep coming. D. Osahon Enabulele is happily married 2007. He is currently a Chief Consultant Family Physician to his lovely wife, Dr (Mrs) Joan Enabulele (a Consultant (CSG I) and Head of Department of Family Medicine, UBTH. Dental Surgeon/Senior Lecturer and Head of Department, Dr Enabulele was the Governorship candidate of the Department of Restorative Dentistry, University of Benin) and National Conscience Party (NCP) at the April 2007 Edo State blessed with three lovely children).

Gubernatorial election. He is the Founder/DG, Initiative for

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rincess Tokunbo is the Chief Executive Officer/ MD, United Capital Trustees Limited, a leading Nigerian Trustee with over 50 years of experience in Trust services. She is a seasoned professional with over 28 years in trusteeship services spanning both the private and public sector. She is both a trustee and President of the Association of Corporate Trustees. In addition to this, Princess Tokunbo is a member of the NBA, FIDA, Nigerian Institute of Management, the Business Recovery & Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria and the British Council.

She holds a Bachelors of Law Degree from the University of Ife, Ile-Ife in 1995. Princess Tokunbo is also an Alumnus of Phillips Consulting, South Africa SMP and Columbia Business School High Impact Leadership on Maximizing Individual Organizational Performance.

Princess Tokunbo Adenike Ajayi www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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yo Bassey is one of the youngest Chief Executive officers in the Africa continent. Eyo is a software developer, an entrepreneur and the Chief Executive Officer of RomFlex Group. He is also the Founder and CEO of Nigeria’s most preferred and fastest growing online shopping website, Payporte.com.

This young millionaire was fatherless at the age of 11. He felt the hopelessness of his world at the time though he was determine and focused. Today, he is a front liner in entrepreneurship.

He is also the founding Director of Rom Flex Limited which is the parent company to Payporte, along with other companies related to different sectors of the economy like Education, Oil & Gas and e-government. Before he started his company, he worked as the Global systems administrator and the Head of Infrastructure Engineering at Socket Works Global Limited.

He has outstanding educational accomplishment with two first degrees in Civil Engineering and Pure and Applied Physics in Nigeria. He later traveled to United States of America to pursue a Master’s program at Virginia State University where he emerged with a degree in Information Communication Technology. He was later selected to study Entrepreneurship at the international Vision Leadership Program organized by the US Government.

He also attended Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) School of management where he obtained a certificate in Management and Leadership as well as in Strategy and Innovation. His other academic exploits include, London Business School where he studied Market Driving Strategies and Harvard Business School where he studied Digital Strategies.

He has engaged in various projects across Africa. He developed enterprise business solution for the Ghana Post and set up the

largest e-learning hub for East Africa (MUBS Uganda). He also helped to develop the roll out of the e-passport for the Nigeria Immigration Service, the development of software for revenue collections by various state governments in Nigeria and establishment of electronic voters register for Nigerian Government just to name a few. He has helped to change the ICT landscape in Nigeria since 2009.

He has headed businesses that failed but he never gave up trying. His first company, Rom Flex which he started in his mother’s house struggled and nearly collapsed but was determined to keep going.

Bassey is a poster boy for the growing army of young Nigerian entrepreneurs.

His dream is to make business leaders out of his many young staff with entrepreneurial capacity.

He is an honorary citizen of Dallas Texas and an Alumi of the U.S State Department. He has received several recognition - Pan-African leadership prize for excellence

by African student Union Parliament in United States of America The story of e-commerce in Nigeria won’t complete without the mention of Payporte which has become synonymous to Eyo Bassey. The introduction of Payporte has changed the experience of online shopping in Nigeria with their 24 hours delivery services making it the preferred online store. Payporte is the only e-commerce brand from Nigeria with fully staffed operational physical stores in multiple locations around the world, operational in countries like US, UK, China, Turkey and one of the most visited online stores in Nigeria.

He has connected with Nigerians via Multi Choice Big Brother Nigeria as the show’s core sponsor. He is a Christian, a husband and father of 3 lovely kids.

Eyo Bassey

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rs. Margaret Anizor is a Radiographer by profession, a passionate worship leader and a prolific songwriter.

She jointly hosts ‘Wonders of Worship’ with her husband. This popular biannual worship program started in 2006 and has since become famous for supernatural miracles and healing.

Pastor Margaret and Pastor Chuks live in Asaba, Nigeria and are blessed with four children.

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Terabel Marini

rs Terabel Marini B Forba is an Italian based Cameroonian business woman, philanthropist, Humanitarian, a wife, a mother, multi award winner who has continued to render service to humanity and bringing out the best in people around her. All in honour of her late mother who impacted most of these virtues into her.

Apart from her charitable works, she is a business mogul who is into Real Estate in Italy and Cameroon. She is the founder and the CEO of Terabel Marini Foundation.

Through her foundation she empowers young girls between the ages of 18-28 in successful skills acquisition in Cameroon in order for the participants to become role model for the country in the nearest future.

Investing in the youths is her core objective as they are the future. If you invest in them now, we can be guaranteed for a better future for Cameroon and the rest of Africa in the near future. Since 2012, her foundation had been helping young people and women in honour of her late mother who passed on while she was still very young. “Growing up without a mother was the biggest challenge ever in my life. It was hard and difficult and I vowed to help children going through similar circumstances in life�.

Her targets first and foremost are orphans, sick people, people oppressed and the needy, helping less privileged children to get the right medical care, protection from diseases and sickness and accommodation over their heads. At the age of 27, she decided to start the foundation as a legacy to her mother. She is the sole sponsor of the foundation and within a short period of its launch, it has engaged in several life changing projects in Cameroon. Such projects include visits to Buea regional hemorrhage center, Buea

Cameroon to help people with Kidney disorder to have better medical screening and giving aprons to the doctors with TMF logo on it.

Terabel Marini Foundation participated in a three(3days) Cancer Awareness; Screening/Prevention, Early detection and care ( CASEC); capacity building retreat in Kribi, organized by the Michael and Mauritia Patcha Foundation.

Our volunteer team learned lifesaving skills, including a Life Support and CPR seminar to help people in danger while on the road. The seminar was run from the 21st to the 24th of June 2018.

Terabel Marini Foundation also collaborated with ladies of victory and visited refugees.

Made a visit to the Fiango Market Kumba Cameroon, sharing love with the widows and single mothers at the market, distributing aprons, umbrellas and even paying for goods for the old mothers and widows so that they could return home for the day and rest.

The Terabel Marini Foundation Team members in Bamenda in collaboration with the Atanga Kidney Foundation visited the regional hospital Bamenda on world kidney day. Among the services they rendered includes the following FREE services , kidney screening ; High blood pressure; diabetes and running Urin alysis tests.

According to her, her foundation has reached out to more than 5000 lives through their humble activities. In the process, she has won several awards across the globe. Among them are in America, London, Germany, Ireland, Cameroon and Holland.

Owuor Jakano (DJ Dava)

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wuor Janano is popularly known by his stage name, DJ Erick Dava. He is a Kenyan DJ, based in Utrecht in The Netherlands. He is a man full of passion for African music and no surprise that his chosen career is to become a DJ to entertain people around the world with his selection and compilation of music from Africa and around the world.

He is an international DJ of great repute. He has been coordinating other DJs from East Africa in the Netherlands and promote the East African culture to the world.

His a music encyclopedia. He recently teamed up with fellow country man, Abeka to start an online radio station, RadioAfrica NL and he says that they have very big ambition with the radio station which is already getting listeners and viewers.

Before now, he promotes musicians, bringing successful African artistes to entertain the audience.

He enjoys promoting reputable artistes from East Africa to Holland to entertain and educate the public on African music. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Olufunke Oshonaike

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lufunke Oshonaike was born on 28 October 1975. She is a sports personality with her success story found in Table Tennis.

Oshonaike started playing in the street corners of Shomolu, Lagos, Nigeria in the early 1980s. She was a spectacle each time she played because she was very small and used to amaze people with her skill.

She attended Community Primary School now known as Ola-Olu Primary School, Agunbiade, Shomolu, Lagos. While in primary 4, she won a competition for the school and was honoured by the Headmaster of the school, Mr G.O. Taiwo, on the assembly ground in front of her school mates.

She proceeded to Igbobi Girls High School, Yaba.

She left the school when she was in SSS 1 to proceed with her professional career in Table Tennis. She’s Nigeria’s most decorated female table tennis player and she said her greatest moment as a table tennis player was during the 2003 All Africa Games, COJA, when she won four gold medals, six months after giving birth to her first child.

She is simply described as Queen of African Table Tennis.

Funke Oshonaike has won all the tournaments available in Africa and she is still dreaming of capturing the world.

Mary E Tataw Mary E Tataw is of Cameroon parentage and presently lives in Schiedam in The Netherlands. She studies Arts and Craft at Willem de Kooning Academy but her passion for fashion has driven her to take it up more professionally.

She is the founder MAFCOUTURE. Mafcouture is about seamlessly fusing different cultural backgrounds into modern fashion.

She has been breaking boundaries and setting trends since 2010when she started turning traditional and cultural attires to a daily modern fashionable wear.

She speaks three languages: English, Dutch and French. Her clothing line is available on online and high street stores.

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At 44, she says she does not want to retire yet since she still has much left in the tank for the sports of Table Tennis. Funke Oshonaike is already giving back to the sports that gave her fame by starting the Funke Oshonaike Foundation.

She is the only Nigerian woman to have competed in 6 consecutive Olympic Games, the last being the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, where she competed in the women’s single division. She was also the flag bearer for Nigerian team during the Parade of Nations. She started U-21 Table Tennis Championship being organized by her foundation at the Table Tennis section of the Ikeja Country Club. Oshonaike who is still Nigeria’s best female table tennis player is hoping to attend the Japan 2020 Olympics.

If she achieves that, it will place her on 7 Olympics attended.

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r. John Bunyeshuli was born on 21st July 1969 in Kenya to Rwandese parents. The family moved to Canada in the early 70s due to the antiRwandan sentiments which was getting stronger in Kenya.

He returned to Rwanda in his early 40s, bringing with him, his international background and network to bear in developing the fashion industry.

Apart from his interest in Fashion, he is an actor and Jazz & Blues musician.

He is also an accomplished international PR Executive with enormous experience in fashion, beauty and entertainment industries across the globe.

Mr. Bunyeshuli is the official Goodwill Cultural Ambassador for Rwanda.

friends, Gloria Wavamunno, the CEO Kampala fashion week and Cynthia Munwangari, CEO Bujumbura fashion week (Promoters of Burundi fashion industry), John is offering some of his skills to develop and establish the two fashion weeks in Uganda and Burundi.

John Bunyeshuli is a founding Board member of the Commonwealth Fashion Council in London and Rwanda got appointed as one of the 6 African nations on the council board and the Pan African Fashion Council in France. Rwanda fashion council is the first ever platform that will help to regulate and promote fashion industry in Rwanda. And it is the brain child of John and his counterpart, Mr. Celestin Ntawirema, the founder and CEO of Rwanda cultural fashion show.

His vision is to help develop the Rwanda fashion industry to such a level that the designers will be confident enough to compete with Western designers.

He believes that there will be complete restoration of pride to wear ‘Made in Rwanda’ clothing.

We want to see senior officials in government of Rwanda wear Rwanda designs.

His ambition is to be a fashion ambassador and get people to come over to Rwanda to enjoy everything that Rwanda has to offer including her fashion industry. “The good thing with me is that since I’m not a designer myself, there is no conflict of interests. I am not here promoting one person. I’m here to promote everyone”.

John Bunyeshuli

He has held several key positions in the fashion industry; first as a PR personnel with the ever growing Miss Scuba international (United Kingdom) . He helped to establish Miss Scuba Kenya after successful pioneering the British version in 2013. He worked very closely with LDJ Productions – they are the producers of New York fashion week and one of the most successful PR East African consortium PLC company based in the UK. John co-founded the branch and headed it for five years connecting the five East African countries to Europe, China and North America in promoting business investments mainly in entertainment Infrastructure.

He is currently the founding manager of the Kigali Fashion Week (Rwanda) – a platform that promotes Rwanda fashion industry.

Together with other East African members and his good

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Tony Airhenbuwa

ony Airhenbuwa is a seasonal journalist based in Hamburg, Germany. He hails from Edo State, Nigeria.

He is known across Europe as Tony Air for his radio program which he uses to entertain his fans across the world organizing interviews for celebrities across the board.

He is a trained Broadcaster at Tide Television/Radio in Hamburg Germany. He is currently the Director of Programs at African Heritage Radio in Germany and the Producer and Presenter of the Program “WHATS UP NAIJA”.

He is also a member of Deutscher Journalisten Verband, a national body for registered journalists working in Germany.

For his consistencies and hard work in promoting African media in the Diaspora, he is being recognized this year 2018.

Congratulations, Mr. Tony Air.

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Living positive Facts about HIV • HIV is short for Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

• Without medication – Anti-Retroviral Therapy – the HIV infection weakens the body’s immune system, ultimately leading to AIDS. • With medication the virus is being suppressed and immunity is restored. People with HIV who take medication as prescribed can no longer pass on the virus to their partners, can have healthy children and breastfeed, and live as long as people without HIV.

Eliane

HIV is not AIDS This is the third column on living with HIV in The Netherlands, explaining the difference between HIV and AIDS. HIV is a virus. AIDS is the advanced phase of a HIV infection, when the immune system is so damaged that a number of severe health conditions occur.

Jennifer and I have been friends for years. She does my hair, even long before I was open about my HIV status. Her kids go to school next to my boys’ school. Patricia has kids at that same school. One day I saw Patricia with a nice hairstyle and I asked her if she could do it for me. I gave her my business card so she could contact me for an appointment. I waited for two months.

One morning I saw Jennifer and Patricia and I waved at them.

Patricia reacted, surprised: “Hey Jen, do you know that lady?”

Jennifer: “Yes, she is a good friend of mine! Why?” Patricia asked Jennifer if she knew what I have. Jennifer was curious to know what I might have. Patricia whispered: “She has that thing, you know… She has AIDS, don’t get close to her. She asked me to do her hair and she gave me her card.

When I googled her name I found out she has AIDS. I never called her back. I don’t dare to touch her hair!”

Jennifer smiled and answered: ”My friend Eliane does not have AIDS! She has been living with HIV for many years. We were friends before I knew her status and nothing changed since I know. And I did not get HIV just because of being her friend or doing her hair!”

When Jennifer told me this, we discussed how we could help Patricia to overcome her fear. We decided to have a chat at the school playground. So, one day I was greeting them with a happy voice. Jennifer and I hugged, like if we had not seen each other for years! Then I went to hug Patricia just as I did Jennifer. She hugged me with a smile. We exchanged nice compliments and then went back to the usual school mothers conversations.

From that day on it became normal to chat. Jennifer had explained Patricia about HIV and AIDS. I know that every time I educate one person, this person will spread the word.

HIV is a virus which causes AIDS when the person is not treated in time. With medication HIV is just a chronic condition and people can live up to old age. Patricia knows the difference now.

Patricia will be happy to do my hair if I ask her to.

Hiv Vereniging The Dutch Association of People Living with HIV (Hiv Vereniging) represents the interests of all people with HIV in the Netherlands, irrespective of background.

We provide information about living with HIV and organise all kinds of meet-ups.

Servicepunt Our team of expert volunteers can be contacted for any question about living with HIV, by telephone on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 14:00 – 22:00 hrs, or by email: servicepunt@hivvereniging.nl.

See www.hivvereniging.nl

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D

on Ceder, born in 1989, is a lawyer, Amsterdam councilor for the Christen Union party and he was recently selected by Forbesamong the ‘30 under 30 Europe ‘list 2018 of successful young people. He is the founder of Ceder Advocatuur, a law chamber based in Amsterdam He holds a Bachelor of Arts/Science from VU University and a Master of Science from the same University (VU University).

Don Ceder through his law firm defends citizens against unlawful claims and debt collection disputes, while working to provide accessible legal assistance for everyone. He is a young politician and have attempted candidacy of the National parliament but did not secure enough votes.

He is presently serving as a member of the Amsterdam City council under the ChristenUnie party in Amsterdam.

His contribution to strengthening the legal position of people of minority group has popularized him among the African communities. He helps to defend them against irrational bills.

Don Ceder was recognized in 2014 as Amsterdammer of the year.

Ceder is also a board member of the lawyers’ association Pro Vita, human rights organization Kompass and Schuldhulpmaatje Amsterdam. He is also a member of the Supervisory Board of the Cultural Participation Fund.

Don Ceder speaks from a desire to invest. As a result, he regularly give lectures at organizations, companies and schools. The lecture: ‘Vision without action is a dream, but action without vision is a nightmare’ is an interactive session in which he explains the importance of a clear vision, demonstrates and applies it to every situation.

In his spare time, Don performs as a DJ, musician, theater maker and children’s worker.

Ceder also organizes events as a project coordinator. He

Don Ceder organizes the free ‘Legal Strong’ workshops , in which consumers strengthen their legal position by transferring practical legal knowledge in an easily accessible manner.

During the workshop: ‘Unused Potential’, Ceder takes participants through stories, personal leadership, growth and self-reflection. During the interactive workshop, Ceder confronts everyone with his or her self-imposed limitations and stimulates the participants to think about their own story.

Patrick Ngambi

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atrick Ngambi was born in 1972 in Douala Cameroon and he now lives in Uitgeest, The Netherlands for more than 20 years. He is a cultural ambassador promoting African culture in the Diaspora.

He has followed Djembé lessons under several Djembé

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masters from Cameroon, Senegal, Guinea and Mali.

Today, Patrick besides being a djembe-teacher and entertainer, he is also the founder of Foundation Afrikontact Promotions and the Djembé Band Zamana. The primary goal of Afrikontact Promotions is to promote African culture in The Netherlands by organizing African events such as: African fashion shows, corporate and school events such as festivals, concerts, African dance parties and workshops.

Djembé Band Zamana is a multicultural percussion group from Krommenie and Hoofddorp. Each year, they perform at major events such as: The Zaanse Culultuur Market, Singing on the Zaan River, The Haarlemmermeer Marathon, The Dam to Dam walk, TCS Amsterdam Marathon, The 30 of Zandvoort, Walking 4 days of Alkmaar, Summer Party Overbos Hoofddorp, and also at various music events at the Cameroon and French Embassies. In June 2010, they performed for the Dutch national football team at the World Cup in South Africa. The Voice Achievers Award 2018 would like to formally recognize Mr Patrick Ngambi for his many contributions to the promotion of Africa culture in Europe.

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illiam Ifeanyi Iwuchukwu was born in Onitsha Anambra State Nigeria, to a Christian family of late Chief and Mrs. Nnayelugo Paul Iwuchukwu both from Onitsha North local Government Area.

Mr. Iwuchukwu is a very humble and charismatic person who desires others to be happy. This character made him a natural negotiator and a lover of peace. Though he is a very hard working individual but he makes out time to have fun and relax.

William believes that all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Discipline and integrity are some of his unique features and he dislikes all forms of intimidation.

In 2005, he received his Diploma in the Netherlands from Koning Willem 1 College at S’Hertogenbosch. He has done several other courses in the Netherlands to qualify him to engage in business activities in the country. In the same year (2005), he registered his import/export business under the name of Willymenco and the company still exits to date. In April 2007, he obtained another Certificate in Social hygiene (SVH) Verklaring Sociale Hygiene and in 2015, he earned a bachelor’s degree in International Communication and Management from Inholland University of Applied Science in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

In 2010, he teamed up with his business partners and established the first African luxurious night club and party house under the name Club DNA in Amsterdam. Since then he has received numerous awards such as MBE heart of gold award 2013 in Amsterdam; the best CEO of the year 2014 in Manchester United Kingdom; African leadership improver awards in Banjul, The Gambia 2015; Altar knights’ servers’ award for excellence 2016 in Onitsha, Nigeria, and African global entertainment award 2017 in Antwerp, Belgium.

Today, William Iwuchukwu remains a cheerful philanthropist helping the needy and less privileged, as well as supporting noble

William Ifeanyi Iwuchukwu initiatives. He contributes to both his community of birth in Nigeria and his adopted homeland, Amsterdam through visits to the motherless baby homes in several states in Nigeria and in the city of Amsterdam, giving support to assist widows and widowers through empowerment programs and financial support. Under the platform of Abada Iwuchukwu foundation, his numerous donations to various charity homes and organizations in Nigeria and The Netherlands are documented. He has scholarship programs for many students in all levels of learning at educational institutions.

Mr. Iwuchukwu lives in Amsterdam, The Netherlands and he is happily married with children.

His Highness, Onyeike Charles Onyebuchi

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mbassador C.O. Onyeike (Ugo Mba of Item Okpi Kingdom, Onyendu Ndigbo Dum Europe) was born in Apuanu Item in Bende LGA Abia State Nigeria. He is a husband and a father of three children. He is a manufacturer based in Bremen Germany. He is the CEO of Essifon Group Deutschland - The producer of Essifon Wheat Flour, Essifon Spices & Seasons and Essifon Pepper sauce. Essifon products are making their marks on the food production market worldwide and it is no surprise that in just few years in the trade, Essifon has become a household name and a taste of

good food in a healthy Kitchen.

Chief Onyendu Onyeike is also the Spiritual Leader and founder of Igbo World Union Europa e.v. (Universal Peace Federation). He is a Peace Ambassador for his organization as well as Nigerian Peace Ambassador under the United Nation. A philanthropist; Onyeike helps in feeding less privileged people during Republic of Togo’s uprising in 19911993. As part of his philanthropic work, he donates regularly to Charity Organizations for example AWO and Red Cross Deutschland.

His businesses in Germany has helped to create employment for many Africans living in Germany www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Appreciation to a wonderful team & all our guests THANK YOU ALL

D

istinguished guests. Good evening to you all. I year we increase the list from modest 3 persons nine years ago respectfully stand on all existing protocols. I am to over 40 persons in 2018 and yes the list is growing longer but once again humbled as the Chief Host to welcome it obviously points to the fact that more people are working hard you to 2018 celebration of The Voice Achievers Award. behind the scene to change the narratives from a wrong narration We commenced this event yesterday, discussing to correct narratives of Africa and its people.

Africa and showcasing our businesses and Tonight, I want you all to applaud the beautiful services through an exhibition at the hall. daughters, sons, worthy African friends and It obviously indicates that Africans are institutions for whom we have gathered here more than able to narrate their stories. to celebrate. If you are yet to be recognized, Tonight is another night of celebration of I can assure you that your time will come.

African success stories. The concept of the Voice When we approach the big companies that magazine’s project- The Voice Achievers’ Award have profited from our continent, they respond was because of the bankrupt narratives about Africa to us that they do not have extra fund to finance by mischievious persons and their sponsors. This a project like this. Listen carefully, they make trend propelled us nearly twenty years ago to begin money from our continent, they exploit our to reverse those ill-informed stories about Africa people, even get some of them drunk and hence the emergence of The Voice Magazine. become drunkards and smokers but they do not Pastor Ndubuisi Elvis Iruh The question today is: has the narratives have funds to support a celebration of this kind. changed over the years? Obviously, not much Publisher/Editor-in-Chief I wonder the kind of parasitic relationship has changed. It means “a luta continua”. I that exist between us and the so called am on this podium this evening because we multinational Companies operating in Africa. will continue to remind ourselves of our potentials and I would not mention names but you know them yourself so to my God’s given abilities to be great as we are seeing tonight. point tonight, before we leave I want you to make a commitment I have refused to see the dark side of the African continent, not to sponsor next year’s “The Voice Achievers’ Award”. It would because I am blind to the things happening there. However, I be 20 years anniversary of The Voice magazine and 10th year seek to shake up ideas of optimism rather than pessimism. We anniversary of the awards. Shouldn’t this be special celebration? are good at argument of what should have been but never was or It is on our mind to take the next award to an African country. happened. We should be good at finding solutions to our identified We have been working on that for few years now. Equatorial problems – this is the task of progressive minded people. Guinea is beckoning us to come. The Gambia requested us Each year people confront me with the question: why should to come as well as Kenya next year. This award should have we celebrate our success stories? And I simply been in Dubai this year but the cost was over say to them, if we don’t, who will? Your being 70,000 euros to stage an award event of this here tonight is a testimony of our willingness to magnitude in Dubai so we kept it on hold. celebrate and tell our story no matter how little it I count on you and expect a commitment may be. For this reason, I want to appreciate you all tonight to give us that support and if there is and I humbly request for an applaud to one another. any person here to make that commitment, I am proudly immersed into the Diasporan talk to me as I take my seat again. and African world. As a practicing diasporean This award is to stimulate you to do journalist, I can state how bankrupt the narrative more for humanity in whatever field about Africa has been. When I file a good progress of human endeavor you find yourself. report on Africa to a typical Western media, it is Our effort is not to ignore all the challenges not considered interesting enough for publication we face as Africans but our continent is not a Mr. Henry Oduenyi because the story is not sensational, controversial, continent of woes alone, we have good people, Managing Editor scandalous, sexual, murderous and filled with positive minded people and nobody will change sad ending narrations to make a good reading. that narrative or tell the world better story than But I think differently. We have to expose our people if we are able to tell it ourselves through what we do and how more. Africa has a special brand but very little depth of we conduct ourselves. understanding. I thought that if only we can continue to produce I wish you an enjoyable evening and I look forward to working more positive images like we are doing tonight, recognizing with some of you towards future events. individuals, organizations and friends of Africa doing something no matter how small it is to change the narratives.

Some people criticize us on the choice of awardees and yet every 20

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Before I will leave this stage, I want to pay our collective tribute as the Voice family to two of our associates who passed on in the course of this year. Mr. Lucky Osahon who was a pioneer staff of The Voice magazine and stayed with the publication until his death. He lived in the United Kingdom and passed away during a holiday in Nigeria at the close of last year. May his soul continue to rest in the lord.

Amen Also our Goodwill Ambassador, and my childhood friend and brother, he was with us last year on this same platform, Dr. Adewunmi Alayaki, the Managing Director of Hope General Hospital in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, he lost his dear wife in early October, he was planning to be here with her this year, we talked and worked towards it. Our prayers for God to console him and his family. Amen.

Once again, I want to thank my beautiful working committee and this year I want to mention names and call them up for their commitment and dedication in very extreme conditions of working with me. Some are not physically with us and others are very shy but please help me to applaud them as they make their way to this podium tonight.

Those who are not here, I am sure they are watching the whole event with us via the social media.

Thank you all and God bless you. We shall meet again in 2019 as we celebrate 20 years of our publication and 10 years of The Voice Achievers Award.

Mr. David Banjoko Graphic Maestro

Mr. Ken King Aide Member

Delphine Ingabire Member

Nkechi Asante Member

Pastor Duncan Spier Member

Abeka Salmin Abdallah Member

Dr. Angela Aide Member

Jismachja Natevca Helberg Member

Madam Ifeyinwa Ezeagabu Member

Jerry F. Nwaki Member

Ambassador Nwanne Campo Member

Marion van der Voort Member www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Uche Nwatarali

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rs. Uche Nwatarali is a multi-skilled medical professional with over 30 years extensive experience in nursing, midwifery, psychiatry, clinical research, health care quality control and process innovation. After Bachelor of Science degree in Nigeria; she migrated to The Netherlands with her husband as a Heineken expatriate partner in 2001 with 3 children. While in the Netherlands, she fervently combined raising 3 children and developing her career.

She soon obtained her Master of Science degree and now works in the health care industry as quality control manager and auditor.

In 2017, she successfully completed management programme in Nijenrode Business University in Breukelen Utrecht. Uche launched her foundation in 2014.

The Uche African Arts foundation was officially inaugurated by the then Nigerian Ambassador to the Netherlands to the 7th November 2015.

In 2016, she introduced the fashion label Afrochique.

The foundation’s mission is to encourage and support young motivated African artists by offering a platform for the presentation of contemporary art, and to develop a critical forum for the promotion of African art and fashion talents across the world.

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Evangelist Sunday Eromosele

unday Eromosele was born in Lagos Nigeria. He is the director of Sunday Music Limited, a part of Sunday’s Gospel Ministry based in the United Kingdom.

Sunday Eromosele is an inspirational gospel artist, international singer, songwriter, composer, organizer of gospel music, events, crusades and a minister of the gospel. His mission is to reach out to the world through gospel music, counselling and teaching using every tool at his disposal, with his God’s given talent and ministry to spread the good news and give hope to the hopeless. To lead men to the answer for the world today, teaching them to appreciate the giver of gifts and learn to worship and praise God

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Uche African Art Foundation intends to capture young African talents and provide a professional work environment that is stimulating, rewarding, creative, and respectful of ideas and individuals. In this way, the foundation showcases Africa in a positive way across Europe and the rest of the world.

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Almighty. He is married to Petra his beautiful wife from The Netherlands and they have 3 lovely sons. He is currently based in the United Kingdom.

In 2006, he released his first album entitled “Jehovah…The Most High” In 2009, he came out with an inspirational gospel DVD as a follow-up to his debut album, a first public appearance on television that was aired on the Dutch Gospel TV channel “Family 7” and Ben Television in the United Kingdom.

In 2017, he successfully released 2 of his powerful singles, ‘Africa and Shine on Me’.

Sunday Eromosele is currently working on the release of some more Gospel materials.

C

hristine Among is the CEO/ Chairperson/Founder of Foundation Mamawatoto.

MamaWatoto Foundation ( MamaWatoto is a Swahili word for mother of children) is an independent, non-profit organization established by a group of African women living in the Netherlands led by Christine Among.

According to her, the purpose is to give the right tools to people to empower them to make their own choices in order to live a better life. Wherever they found themselves around the world be it in Africa or elsewhere.

She has used the opportunity and expertise gained by living in a country like the Netherlands to empower herself so that she can be an agent of change for women, children of her country, Uganda.

Through her foundation she has helped many smaller groups to develop strategic objectives and policies, monitoring progress towards achieving the objectives and policies of their organizations.

Christine is a relevant personality within her community in the South East of Amsterdam where she lives to inspire more women by engaging them in discussions, participating in all meetings and making sure that all relevant matters are discussed and effective decisions reached for the benefit of the minority group in the area. Christine is part of the organization of Rural

Initiative for Community Development (RICODE) which supports in the areas of Food security, vocational training, peace and reconciliation and the rehabilitation of the street children in Uganda. Christine is hard working and is willing to learn and work with those who are development minded.

Her selection for this award is because of her tremendous contribution to the communal development of Africans in the Netherlands as well as her giving back spirit of reaching less privileged people in her home country of Uganda through her foundation, Mama Watoto.

Through her various chains of networks, she has established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the Dutch society, promoting the interest of Africa to anyone who cares to listen and hear her story.

Through her organization, Foundation Mamawatoto, she has been working towards the socio-economic and environmental empowerment of local communities in rural Uganda, through the management of community driven development projects, and the direct promotion of basic human rights and empowerment of people.

The vision of her foundation is a world in which the poor and vulnerable are no longer marginalized, but allowed to participate in the creation of long-lasting positive opportunities for themselves, and the communities they live in.

Christine Among

Shan Walker George

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han Walker George was born to a British father and a Nigerian mother. She is a graduate of Mass Communication from University of Lagos (Unilag). She was trained as a broadcaster and worked with Nigeria Television Authority (NTA). She joined Nollywood (the Nigeria Movie Industry) and started her acting career in 1996. By 1998, she produced her first Movie titled� ALL FOR WINNIE.�

Ever since, she has combined

acting, writing movie scripts and producing movies nonstop. She is a recipient of several movie awards at home in Nigeria and abroad including but not limited to the Afro Hollywood Awards London, AMAA, CRSMA among others. It is with joy that we receive Shan George to be once again recognized for her contribution to the acting and movie industry in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. A shining example of hard work.

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Gideon Boateng Gideon Boateng is a young Ghanaian entrepreneur who is making a name for himself with his stylish suits design and shoes making label that has hit the European market like a storm.

Based in Belgium, his suits are trending around Europe and they feature contemporary designs to complement any taste and style. He is blending cultural differences to produce the best suit for all occasion.

Presently he specializes in men suits but he is preparing a special design package for women as well.

His suits have become immensely popular in United Kingdom, Belgium, The Netherlands, Italy and France. His brand name is Grogo.

Eve Pamba Eve Pamba is French citizen of African roots and she is very proud of it. She is an international fashion promoter using her fashion blogger to promote all forms of designs including African fabrics. Her contribution to the industry is well documented and appreciated in major fashion runaways from Paris to other parts of the world. She is an excellent

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supermodel, fashion enthusiast & promoter, make-up artiste, makeover beauty and fitness expert.

Her wealth of experiences and impeccable record in the industry with focus on modelling and fashion has drawn considerable worldwide attention to her work and no surprise she is sought after by top modelling agencies around the world.

Her history originated from a young age featuring in modelling shows despite the challenges faced by people of colour. Eve has written her name on many editorials of magazines and fashion journals. She also works with top designers worldwide and now she is publishing her own fashion blog with great followership around the world. She has appeared in all major journals on fashion including one of the biggest, Paris Fashion week”. Her face has become familiar to many people on the street as she appears on bill boards advertisement, Paris Fashion Week, appearances on runway and brand endorsements she has marketed L’Interdit de Givenchy, a perfume brand in Paris.

She has broken all the barriers that colour women face to become one of the finest supermodel that makes heads to turn when you work on the streets of Paris. Modestly, she has stayed proud to her African heritage. It is obvious she is a super model and a grown talented female actress.

Eve Pamba is the founder of “@evesmodelsparis“. Part of her responsibilities includes modelling, blogger for big companies, video production for their YouTube channels etc. Combining Fashion and beauty in the city of Paris is great to do.

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ngela Unufe-Kennedy is a British born Nigerian antipoverty and Anti-discrimination advocate, a human rights campaigner, businesswoman and a Nurse.

She was born in South East London on the 24/08/1976. She relocated to Nigeria with her parents shortly after her birth. At age six, Angela moved to Benin City with her mother and four younger brothers after the untimely death of her father. Her mum’s business would sometimes require her to travel for many days at a time, this meant Angela, although still a kid herself, to become a foster mum to her younger brothers in her mum’s absence. This may have helped in many ways to mould her.

Little wonder then, that she would opt out from a high paying IT job with Hewlett Packard for Bank of Ireland to pursue a degree in Nursing and help people in need, especially those with Disabilities. Raised briefly in Nigeria and subsequently in London, Angela first studied at the North London University now known as London Metropolitan University, where she graduated with joint honours in Business Operation and Marketing in 1999.

She would later bag another degree, a BSc in Nursing Disability from Dublin City University (DCU). Upon her graduation, she founded an NGO called Migrant and Minority Disability Network Ireland (MMDNI) to help Migrants and Refugees in Ireland; but after visiting the European Parliament in Brussels on the invitations of Disability Federation of Ireland (DFI) and EASPD, the European Association of Service Providers for Persons with Disabilities, she would broaden the scope of her NGO. Consequently, Migrant and Minority Disability Network Europe (MMDNE) was formed.

Angela was unveiled as a Universal Peace Ambassador in Diaspora in October 2016 in recognition of diligent work in aid of the disadvantaged in Europe and Nigeria.

Angela also has a knack for business albeit with a humanitarian touch; In August2016, Angela became the sole partner of Aidpol

Lilian Ogechi Esoro

Dr Angela Unufe-Kennedy Ltd, Poland, representing Nigeria; and in January 2018 she was officially endorsed as Aidpol’s commercial representative for Africa. Aidpol is a leading Polish company; they provide products and solutions to organizations involved in emergency relief and development assistance, civil defence, crisis management centres and various types of the uniformed services including medical rescue teams. In July 2018, Angela was honoured with a doctorate degree for her efforts in making life better for people living with disability and her overall contribution to humanity.

Angela Unufe-Kennedy is married with four children, a son and three daughters. Congratulations, Dr Angela Unufe-Kennedy on your award as the 2018 diaspora woman of the year 2018.

Lilian Esoro was born on 13th February 1982 in Imo State.

Esoro grew up in Lagos. She studied integrated science at Bida Polytechnic and later graduated with Political Science degree from University of Abuja. Lilian Esoro is a Nigerian actress, an event planner, and an entrepreneur. She is the CEO of Goldie Locks hair salon situated in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria.

She grew up in Lagos and she is the youngest in a family of seven. She started her acting career in 1990 with “Extended Family” and since then she has starred in a couple of soap operas like CLINIC MATTERS a popular family sitcom where she plays the role of Nurse Abigail, a

stage play titled ‘Ayetu’, ‘I voted now’, and ‘Strive’. Esoro is also a young stars’ ambassador; she is the brand ambassador of Dunes, Abuja, House of Lunnete Ambassador and house of pants limited. She’s also the first female ambassador of Adonko bitters. She was nominated for Best Actress in a Comedy at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards. She has won several other awards for her acting career. Some of the movies she has featured include Strive, The Potter, The Next Door Neighbour, Secret Room (2013), Fool’s Paradise, The Real Deal (2014), Couple of Days (2016), Meet The In-Laws (2016)

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Assumpta Gahutu

ssumpta Gahutu was born on January 10, 1993 in Windhoek Namibia. She was an exceptionally gifted and beautiful child.

At18, she was already competing with the highest beauty pageant in her country, getting to the finals in 2011. She was finalist for Miss Namibia 2011.

Although she didn’t win the crown, she became one of the finest Namibian Instagram model who is recognized for posting fashion and lifestyle photos to her page. She has amassed more than 80,000 followers on the platform. Many more fans are following her through other online medium. She is an actress, model, TV and Radio presenter.

She launched her “Spring Fusion” clothing line, a collection that features Swim Wear and Cocktail Wear for all sexy divas and girls. “I recently found it impressive what I am passionate about, which is designing. I always had this passion for fashion and I always knew that one day I will find myself in the fashion industry and here I am, launching my clothing line,” “My clothing line is inspired by nature, sky and the sun because I am more into bright colours. I feel like fashion is something that one cannot be ignored because what you wear says so much about you, weather you’re going to school, work, town or church.

What you wear will always define you,” says Assumpta.

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Princess Tina Amuziam

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rincess Tina Amuziam is from a royal home in Aniocha North LGA of Delta State of Nigeria. She is the fourth child in a family of nine. She is one of the pioneer Nollywood star actress/ producer. Princess who made her first romance with the klieg lights at NTA in the late 80’s, but stardom did not beckon until she joined Nollywood in ‘96. Amuziam eventually became a household name and further won the hearts of movie buffs with her dazzling role in the hit movie Glamour Girls. Her first movie in Nollywood was The Last Hope in ‘96, but before then she was acting on television.

She was engaged for an NTA Tele movies series in 1987 under Mr. Christian Onu who was a Television Director then. After Tele movies, she did Wind of Destiny, Dreams, Cradle, Blossom and several other TV soaps and series then. She has continued to wow Nollywood with her skills and panache. Amuziam has also gone

into movie making and a mother of another Nolloywood sensational female artist, Angel Ufuom. Princess Amuziam took time off the glamour of the acting world and served her state government when she was appointed as Special Assistant to Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan. After completion of her service, she was again invited to serve under the current dispensation in Delta State. She is actively engaged in her Christian work as an Evangelist and she is doing a lot with her charitable organization to help the less privileged in society.

“When I wake up every morning, l looked back and smiled at what my Lord Jesus has done for bringing me this far. Lord I give you all praise and worship, for no one else could have done these” she declares.

She still have more left in the tank when it comes to acting but she choose to devote more time to God’s kingdom business.

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for the concern of undocumented migrants of Surinamese origin living in The Netherlands.

Since 2012, he has been the coordinator for African and African Descents Corp and Coalition.

(AADCC).

I.W. Leeuwin, Iwan Wilfred has worked very hard to combat poverty, especially among the Surinamese target group. He has been an organizer for the Surinamese -Dutch communities in the Netherlands to address various challenges facing works through the organized labour sector like the FNV, SIO, ANBO, LOM, churches, political parties, SVB and Social Services in order to influence decision-making in parliament.

He has been involved with politics working as Chairman of Green Links for the Municipality of Diemen from 2002 to 2006. Apart from his various engagements, he runs a radio station to reach out to the immigrant communities particularly Surinamese who have long history with the Dutch.

In 2018, he started a gross root political party called U-Buntu Connected

Iwan Wilfred Leeuwin

.W. Leeuwin, Iwan Wilfred was born on 15th July 1959. He is a Dutch citizen of Suriname descent. He studied at University of Utrecht and after that have worked in various sectors of the Dutch society, contributing to the development, advancement and integration of people of colour in the Netherlands.

He is the coordinator of foundation committee1.7.2013. This foundation cares

Front (UCF) and participated at the municipal elections in Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Although he and his cocontestants did not win a single seat but his contribution at high lightening the problems associated with Immigrants in The Netherlands was emphasized.

Iwan Leeuwin’s perspective for its political actions is based on the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa that U-BUNTU has as a starting point for the “new national umbrella norms and values after the abolition of the apartheid system.”

“In the explanation of Madhiba Nelson Mandela: if people are treated well and equally, if they have equal opportunities and the room to develop their talents, if they are not constantly criminalized, considered inferior, or become racist approached, they will undoubtedly perform better at all levels of society and that same philosophy Iwan has embraced for now and for the future of The Netherlands.

Mr. Iwan Leeuwin apart from being the party chairman, is also the current chairman of the Iwan Leeuwin Group in the Amsterdam Zuidoost district.

He is a father and grandfather. He continues to be a man of influence with the black community in the Netherlands.

Minister Dennis de Almeida

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inister Dennis de Almeida is a young Ghanaian artist based in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. He started exhibiting his talents through services in the church.

Progressively, the Lord began to use him to minister in songs.

However, as he grew older, he discovered that he has more in him than to sing in the church choir. He is a talented and gifted organizer, putting together young people. This launched him into organizing events, conferences and Business events among the African youths, particularly Ghanaians and over the years he has become a house hold name. His talent has earned him several recognition and awards. However, his passion for Christ currently dominates his life, giving rise to his ordination as a Minister of the Gospel two years ago. He organizes big events that attract young Ghanaian professionals and other youths in the Netherlands and abroad. To his credit is the Gospel concert titled-“Praise Is What I Do (PIWID).

He said he has birth the idea over ten years before it came into fusion two years ago. Ever since, he has pulled crowds to gospel concerts, particularly young people to praise and worship God together.

Mr. De Almeida is a Dutch-Ghanaian gospel musician, Event

Organizer, Host, presenter and an entrepreneur. His passion is to empower young people through music and entertainment.

One of his fans described him thus: “He is Mr. Incredible, a Multi-talented Singer, Wedding planner, Men stylist, MC. And one of the best dressed Men in Europe. Therefore we can also describe him as a fashion icon, as well as a fashion model.

One of his earlier project was One Night with the King. It still reverberates among the young generation.

He is married with children. www.thevoicenewsmagazine.com

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Joy Wanjiru Zenz

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oy Wanjiru Zenz is the founder of African Women in Europe.

(AWE). She is a mother of two and she lives in Germany. Her aim is to connect African Women living in Europe and around the world through AWE platform irrespective of their geographical locations. Joy started her website in 2008 and now has over 2000 signed and actively involved women networking among each other. With her team, she has been able to move one step forward from networking online to face to face networking by organising successful events in the past 10 years.

(Köln, Madrid, Rome, Paris, Berlin, London and Geneva).Recently she has been able to launch ‘Blog Talk Radio’ where women can discuss various

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avid Smith is an African in a white skin. He has travelled extensively in Africa with over 30 years’ experience in doing business in Africa.

He prides himself as one who is creative in driving successful development for profitable growth for Africa.

It is no surprise that he is sought after to for business partnership and he is prepared to welcome a new challenge.

He is passionate about International trade – He is the Chairman of the British African Business Alliance, a position which has enabled him to engage on drawing together business leaders in the African Diaspora in United Kingdom. Through this, they have created links with 18 diaspora organisations and built a membership and contact base of 5,000+. We are now focused on bringing forward business opportunities and investment propositions to stimulate the creation of SMEs, larger businesses and sustainable jobs in Africa.

Mr. Smith has helped to create a regional network linking Africans with United Kingdom businesses around the United Kingdom. They have started Business Network for Zambia, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Ghana. “We are also developing strong links with the African Diplomats in UK”.

He has also engaged in publications in the area of business to business like he developed and created Agenda for the A21 Corridor – a regional business to business magazine which was brought to profitability and successfully sold.

He was also involved in Travel magazine, Consumer magazine, and Business to Business magazine.

Most importantly, they are looking to create links between established business professionals through membership. That enables them to stimulate the growth of trust and confidence.

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issues and empower each other. Prior to raising her children, Ms Zenz has worked in administration offices and organised events in UK. She has a diploma in Institution Management. Through the AWE platform, African women have been able to connect and build a positive image of African Women in Europe. She has the passion to encourage women and Africans in the Diaspora especially in Europe to start investing in Africa, through partnership and connecting investors in Europe and Africa to the right market and being the bridge.

She believes Africans in the diaspora are the once to build African continent. Joy believes in working together as a team and her Motto is “Together we are STRONG……..

He holds networking m e e t i n g s , development of real projects, promotion of business opportunities and the careful management of business development process, and providing a platform to generate New Contacts, acquire New Knowledge and perhaps identify the new Opportunity of a deal.

Through the organization, he has helped to accelerate the process for the benefit of their members. In 2018, their mission established 10 UK networks with 100 members in each, and to get 100 projects active on the African continent. By 2020 their objective is to mobilize 10,000 business leaders in the Diaspora and UK business to be active in business development in Africa.

He also spent 2 years as a ‘Business Advisor’ on behalf of the Princes’ Youth Business Trust, an organization set up

by HRH Prince Charles, Prince Of Wales, which sponsors the development of businesses amongst young people from underprivileged and disadvantaged backgrounds.

David Smith

Prince Afolabi Dave Obasuyi

Chief Prince Afolabi Dave Obasuyi is the Chairman/CEO of POINSETTS GROUP NIGERIA LTD based in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. He was born into royalty, disciplined by military training, he is very successful in businesses and family life. He is benevolent and philanthropic, respectful and accessible to all that knows him. He is an epitome of political finesse and a hallmark of good leadership. Prince Afolabi is an articulate and excellent communicator. He is also a politician but he is motivated with the interest to serve his people. Prince Afolabi Obasuyi needs no introduction to the Akure people.

He is a household name, a Prince and philanthropist with many years of experience across the continents of the world.

Prince Obasuyi has extensive domestic and international

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uzaffer Kosan was born in Konya in present day Turkey in 1963. He did his first and middle school education in his home land and later he was trained at EML construction department where he finished his studies. He has worked at the PTT in the head office of Konya Regional Directorate. He grew from every step of the ladder as he worked in the Construction control Services Department of the same institution.

In 1985, he diverted to the private sector as a construction controller in Alemdar Holding, Muzaffer Kosan was promoted promptly for his administrative skills including his involvement with social works. He was later promoted to the board membership of the company. Today he is the owner of Kosan Real Estate

business experience in numerous sectors of the economy. He is a dynamic and hardworking entrepreneur. He exhibits the strength of character, vision and dedication required to be successful in an often challenging and demanding environment.

He has affected the lives of many Akure indigenes through his domestic projects which include: Education Programme, Health Services Programme, Youth Empowerment Programme, Infrastructure Development Programme and Projects and construction of Boreholes for communities. He has also been involved in the empowerment of Women groups, school children in his Senatorial District of the state by awarding scholarships to economically disadvantaged students, some of them are studying abroad under his multi-faceted approach to education.

Apart from a striving construction firm, Poinsetts Group of company has provided scare job employments to Nigerians. His other projects are D-Royal table water company and Juice Company situated at Oke Ijebu which will further provide employment for more Nigerians.

The Prince has also invested in health services. Recently, Obasuyi realizing that it is difficult to be a productive member of society when you are sick, heeded to a call by a young man whose mother was seriously sick and needs urgent medical attention at the state hospital in Akure by sending money to offset the hospital bills.

Prince Afolabi Obasuyi is bringing to the political scene a new fresh leave of life; a desired solutions to the many problems the people are faced.

He is married with children.

Consultancy Company and he has been doing business with Africans and other people around the world. He is the President of Gebze young industrialists and Businessmen’s Association for 9 years. He is also running one of the top non-governmental organization between Turkey and the United States. The United States - Turkish Chamber of Commerce and Silicon Valley has laid the foundations of cooperation. He loves to do business with all kinds of people. He is not drawn into the world conflict between his government and the west. According to him, they have gained much experience in running real estate and the certificates they have received are proof of their professional work and he is willing to share all of these with his new African contacts and network.

Muzaffer Kosan

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Shirley Ogechi Igwe

hirley Ogechi Igwe was born in 1988. She attended Federal Government Girls College and Imo State University, both in Owerri, Imo State where she obtained a degree in Mass Communication. She is an outstanding model and a Nollywood Actress. She is a fast- rising Nollywood actress, Shirley Ogechi Igwe, no doubt, is on the ladder to the top as she gladly takes on whatever role she is assigned in any movie project. Her acting skills together with her great looks has made her a household name the Nigerian movie industry.

She also worked as a Principal Protocol officer to the Imo State Governor. She has sealed many deals to become brand ambassador for many companies in Nigeria. She has currently endorsement contracts with Mama Lemon, one of the leading liquid detergent brands. She has done modelling jobs for the likes of Sky Bank, Multi-Links Communication, Oceanic Bank, Wedding Planner Magazine and most recent the MAMA Lemon advert. Through it all, she is a homely lady despite her celebrity status.

De Cardinals International Friends Club De Cardinals Friends association is a socio-cultural organization formed in The Netherlands by people of like minds and interests.

The aims of the Cardinals international Friends Club include; a) Fostering friendly relationship among members, b) Supporting members when the need arises, c) Embarking on humanitarian activities in Africa, especially in Nigeria d) Helping to facilitate the integration of our members

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and other immigrants into the Dutch society.

The club is currently chaired by Distinguished Cardinal U. J Ogbuefi with a strong membership of more than 30.

They have granted scholarship to children of widows, made handsome donations to prison services to empower prisoners.

They have supported the start-up of small-scale businesses for widows and the less privileged people in their local communities. Congratulations to all members of this wonderful club of friends.

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on. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero is the Honourable Commissioner for Arts Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs for Edo State, Nigeria.

He was born on the 26th of July, 1970 in Lagos State. He attended lyobosa Primary School, Benin City and then proceeded to Immaculate Conception College (ICC). He graduated from Delta State University with a BSc degree in Chemistry.

Osaze left Nigeria for the United Kingdom in the late1990, where he continued his education through professional development courses at Westminster University, London. He later joined the Graduate Program of London Underground where he acquired Skills in Customer Service, Operations & Logistics Management rising to the position of Station Manager for one of London’s busiest tube stations.

Seeking new challenges and having quest for new knowledge, Osaze then attended in-house Engineering & Logistics Management training courses.

Being a hands-on individual, he proceeded to enroll on the Train Driver Program when London Underground replaced its old fleet with new state of the art trains.

Osaze actually drove trains throughout the London Underground network. He was also actively engaged in managing and delivering drivers’ training needs.

Osaze’s training and experience with London Underground, managing the world’s oldest and renowned underground transport network is both extensive and impressive covering several areas including: Operations & Logistics Management, Project Management, Stakeholder Management, Team Leadership, infrastructure Management, Training and Deployment. Security Management, Safety Management and Quality Assurance.

Osaze consistently exceeded management targets while at London Underground resulting in increased staff & customer satisfaction and doubling station revenues.

He has exceptional strength in relationship building with good networking and partnering abilities having managed large teams of London underground staff, and interfaced with senior management, suppliers, stakeholders and partners.

Osaze later joined eStrategic Solutions Ltd, United Kingdom (Information Technology Consultants) as a Managing Consultant. He has also served as the Managing Director for Esogie Trade Limited, Nigeria (Business Solutions Providers) and Operations Director (Administration) for Geosol

Hon. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero Construction Nigeria Limited.

Osaze is a registered member of Nigeria’s ruling political party - All Progressive Congress (APC). He served on the Security and Contact & Mobilization Committees of the Oshiomhole 2012 Campaign Organization. He was also an observer at the lNEC Collation Centre for the July 2012 Gubernatorial elections in Edo State. He was LGA Returning officer for Esan North East LG in the April 2013 elections.

He served as Executive Director-Protect Monitoring for Edo State Oil & Gas Producing Area Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) under the Edo State Governor’s office, in the past Administration. In addition, he was a Coordinator for the Edo Youth Committee for Governor Godwin Obaseki Governorship Campaign Organisation.

He is also the Chairman of Edo Voice. A non-Governmental organisation championing a good course for the Edo People.

His hobbies include football, traveling and Motoring. Osaze has also organized several charity activities and events both within Nigeria and abroad.

He is happily married for over Twenty years to Mrs Ivie, and have three lovely children.

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