Abisola Abolaji Omolade, the creative force and Executive Producer behind Showmax’s latest reality series, “Style Magnate,” is set to make waves in Nigeria’s fashion industry. Premiering on Friday, 4 October 2024, this competition will highlight the nation’s top emerging designers, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents and compete for a transformative prize.
“Style Magnate” will pit 20 of Nigeria’s most promising designers against each other in a battle of creativity, skill and innovation. The stakes are high, with a prize package valued at N100 million up for grabs, including a N10 million cash prize, a three-month internship, a one-bedroom loft apartment, and the coveted title of Style Magnate.
Omolade, whose impressive portfolio includes work on Netflix’s Blood Sisters and HBO’s Eyimofe, brings over a decade of experience to the project. “Every aspect of the show, from the concept to the execution, has been carefully curated to inspire and challenge our contestants,” she explains. “As the executive producer, the goal was to create a dynamic environment where creativity thrives and designers can push their boundaries.”
The show’s format is designed to not only entertain but also nurture talent. Renowned fashion designer Mai Atafo will serve as the lead mentor, guiding contestants with his industry expertise. Nollywood actor Joseph Benjamin will host the series, while stylist Yolande Okereke takes on the role of Fashion Principal.
“Style Magnate was born out of a desire to showcase the raw talent and limitless creativity we have in Africa,” Omolade shares. “The idea was to create not just a competition but a platform where designers can learn, grow, and thrive in an industry that’s constantly evolving.”
The show represents a significant investment in Nigeria’s creative economy. Dr. Busola Tejumola, Executive Head of Content and Channels, West Africa, MultiChoice, emphasizes the broader impact of the series: “With Style Magnate, we’re allowing designers to showcase their creativity and passion to a wider audience. We’re proud to support these emerging talents as they work towards making their mark on the global fashion stage.”
For Omolade, this project is the culmination of a career dedicated to pushing creative boundaries. Since beginning her journey in 2009 as an art assistant and programs officer, she has steadily climbed the ranks of Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Her work has garnered recognition, including the AMVCA Best Art Direction award in 2024.
Beyond her role in “Style Magnate,” Omolade’s influence extends to various ventures. She is the founder of Gabrielle Chase Media Limited and Meraki Projects, as well as co-founder of The Sabinah Foundation and The Sabinah Preparatory School, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing talent and giving back to the community.
As “Style Magnate” prepares to hit screens across the continent, anticipation is building. The show promises not just to entertain, but to serve as a launchpad for the next wave of African fashion designers. With Omolade’s experienced hand guiding the production, “Style Magnate” is poised to become a cultural phenomenon, reshaping the narrative of African fashion on the global stage.
In a world where representation matters more than ever, “Style Magnate” stands as a beacon of African creativity and ambition. As viewers tune in from October 4, they’ll witness not just a competition, but the birth of new fashion icons ready to take on t
he world.
