BREAKING NEWS: BEFFTA AWARDS UK 2014 PUBLIC NOMINATIONS FOR THE GRAND 6TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY IS OFFICIALLY OPEN

BEFFTA 2014 PUBLIC NOMINATIONS

BEFFTA 2014 PUBLIC NOMINATIONS

Europe’s biggest award ceremony celebrating black and ethnic personalities in entertainment, film, fashion, television and arts has officially opened it’s grand 6th year anniversary public nominations.  BEFFTA awards, founded by entrepreneur, TV presenter and philanthropist Pauline Long in 2009 is back for the 6th year to celebrate greatness within the African and Caribbean community.

The 6th year BEFFTA UK anniversary is set to take place on 24th and 25th October at The Hippodrome. The awards ceremony is  expected to be celebrated in a very grand style bringing together several international and UK stars under one roof with a common goal to celebrate and honour both unknown and known hard working and extremely talented personalities in entertainment, film, fashion, television and arts.

With legendary personality Sir Trevor McDonald celebrated at past BEFFTA UK with a lifetime achievement award, BEFFTA awards UK team looks forward to celebrating yet another deserving legend who will be revealed soon.

The general public can nominate in the following categories by sending names and details of nominees to nominations@beffta.com

Entertainment Category

Music

  1. Best Female Act
  2. Best Male Act
  3. Best Gospel Act
  4. Best International Act
  5. Best UK AfroBeats Act
  6. Best UK Caribbean Act
  7. Best International Afrobeats Act
  8. Best International Caribbean Act
  9. Best Producer
  10. Best Video Director
  11. Best Music Video Producer
  12. Best Music Video DOP
  13. Best Music Video

Dance

  1. Best Dance Act
  2. Best Dance Choreographer

Comedy

  1. Best Comedian

Radio

  1. Station of the year
  2. Radio personality of the year

Newspapers/Magazines/Blogs

  1. Best Community Newspaper
  2. Magazine of the year
  3. Journalist of the year
  4. Blog of the year

Events

  1. Best Events Promoter

DJ

  1. DJ of the year

Photographers

  1. Best Photographer

Fashion Designers

  1. Best Male Fashion Designer
  2. Best Female Fashion Designer

Stylists

  1. Best Hair Stylist
  2. Best Wardrobe Stylist

Make-up Artists

  1. Best Make-up Artist

Fashion Choreographers

  1. Best Fashion Choreographer

Models

  1. Best male model
  2. Best female model
  3. Best Modelling Agency

Beauty Pageants

  1. Best Beauty Pageant
  2. Best Beauty Queen
  3. Best Former Beauty Queen
  4. Best Beauty Pageant Director

Film Category

  1. Best director
  2. Best Actor
  3. Best Actresses
  4. Best Film
  5. Best screenwriter/Scriptwriter
  6. Best theatre production
  7. Best Cinematographer
  8. Best Producer

TV Category

  1. Best Actress
  2. Best Actor:
  3. Best TV Station
  4. Best TV Show
  5. Best TV personality
  6. Best presenter
  7. Best Webseries
  8. Best online TV

ART Category

  1. Best Spoken Word Artist/Poets
  2. Best Art Director
  3. Best Author

BEFFTA UK Special Awards 2014

  1. BEFFTA YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD
  2. BEFFTA INSPIRATION AWARD
  3. BEFFTA FASHION ICON
  4. BEFFTA FILM ICON
  5. BEFFTA ENTERTAINMENT ICON
  6. BEFFTA MEDIA ICON
  7. BEFFTA CREATIVE PERSONALITY
  8. BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD
  9. BEFFTA LEADERSHIP AWARD
  10. BEFFTA FEMALE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
  11. BEFFTA MALE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

BEFFTA UK public nominations will close on 28th August 2014.

For more information visit www.beffta.com/news

To sponsor BEFFTA UK 2014 6th year grand anniversary email info@beffta.com

To get involved in BEFFTA UK 2014 6th year grand anniversary email info@beffta.com

BEFFTA AWARDS UK 2013 2 DAY EXTRAVAGANZA BROUGHT STARS TOGETHER

BEFFTA AWARDS 2013 - 25TH AND 26TH OCTOBER

BEFFTA AWARDS 2013 - 25TH AND 26TH OCTOBER

Day 2 of BEFFTA awards saw stars come out in large numbers to celebrate one another in an extremely glamorous evening with a record-breaking 88 awards given out. BEFFTA UK awards held over 2 days celebrated talent from entertainment, film, fashion, television and arts. The two nights hosted by BEFFTA founder Pauline Long, Capital Xtra radio personality Abrantee Boateng and poet Alim Kamara were truly inspirational with some of the most unsung talent being honoured. Amongst personalities to receive special honorary awards was entertainment icon BB Seaton, supermodel Nana Afua Antwi received young achiever award and veteran community event organiser and founder of Miss Jamaica UK received BEFFTA female lifetime achievement award. …..

Full list of  BEFFTA UK 2013 winners:

  1. Best Female Act: Beverly Knight
  2. Best Male Act: Wiley
  3. Best Unsigned Act: Roucheone
  4. Best Gospel Act: Lurine Cato
  5. Best International Gospel Act: Emmy Kosgey
  6. Best International Act: Jose Chameleone
  7. Best UK reggae  Act: Vivian Jones
  8. Best International Caribbean Act: Bennie Man
  9. Best Producer: Mafia and Fluxy
  10. Best Video Director: Dego Visionz
  11. Best Music Video Producer: Mastermind media
  12. Best Music Video DOP: Nang TV
  13. Best Music Video: Dbanj(Oliver Twist)
  14. Best record label: Stringray Records
  15. Best Comedian: Anne Kansiime
  16. Best Newspaper: Trumpet
  17. Journalist of the year: Noellin Imoh
  18. Best community website: CaribDirect
  19. Best Hair Stylist: JDFK
  20. Best Wardrobe Stylist: Style Check by Dee
  21. Best Make-up artist: Libeks Beauty Consultant
  22. Best Beauty Pageant: Miss Black Africa
  23. Best Beauty Queen: Chanice Thompson
  24. Best Beauty Pageant Director: Dele Onabowu
  25. Best Former Beauty queen: Gloria Elongo
  26. Best film director: Niyi Towolawi
  27. Best film Actor: Ikenna Obi
  28. Best film Actresses: Yvonne Hays
  29. Best Film: Turning Point
  30. Best Short Film: Violet( Directed by Jett Jermaine)
  31. Best screenwriter/Scriptwriter: Freddy Kruga
  32. Best Cinematographer:Nelson Spyke
  33. Best film Producer:Theodora Ibekwe
  34. Best events promoter: Focus Organisation
  35. Best Art Director: Reuben Joseph
  36. Best Spoken Word artist/Poet: Alim Kamara
  37. DJ of the year: Dj Mkhukhwini
  38. Best UK Afrobeats: Fuse ODG
  39. Best UK Caribbean act : Stylo G
  40. International Afrobeats Acts: Atumpan
  41. Best Photographer: Josh Daniels Photography
  42. Best Male Fashion Designer: Kwame Koranteng
  43. Best Female Fashion Designer: Zuwa Re
  44. Best Fashion Choreographer: Malisha Da Queen
  45. Best male model: Hassan Reese
  46. Best female model: Siobhan C Ridguard
  47. Best Modelling Agency: Face4Music
  48. Best TV Actress: Moji Bamtefa
  49. Best TV Actor: Wil Johnson
  50. Best TV Station: VOX Africa
  51. Best TV Show: Naija Bites (OH TV)
  52. Best TV personality: Mary Shittu
  53. Best presenter: Uncle and Mistar
  54. Best Webseries: Brothers With No Game
  55. Best online TV: Tea With The Duchess
  56. Best Voice Over artist: Patrick Mckenzie
  57. Best Author: Ferdinard Lawson
  58. Best theatre production: Epic Adventure of Nhamo and Manyika Warrior
  59. Radio Station of the year: Tropical FM
  60. Radio personality of the year: Veronica Gordon
  61. Magazine of the year: Keep The Faith Magazine
  62. Blog of the year: Kickin’ it with the kinks
  63. Best dance act: Unique Silver Dancers
  64. Best dance choreographer: Ezekiel Koleosho

BEFFTA AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE 5TH YEAR GRAND CELEBRATION

BEFFTA AWARDS 2013 - 25TH AND 26TH OCTOBER

BEFFTA AWARDS 2013 - 25TH AND 26TH OCTOBER

Stars gathered at the opening ceremony of BEFFTA awards UK to celebrate 5 years of the award ceremony hosted by spoken word artist Alim Karama and BEFFTA founder Pauline Long. Amongst special guests on the night were honourable MP George Galloway, activist and  race relations campaigner Lee Jasper who was honoured with a special honorary award. Paralympic champion who is also a model and actress received BEFFTA inspirational award while Ugandan comedian Anne Kansiime made her first debut in London by winning her first ever international award in UK ; BEFFTA BEST COMEDIAN.

Day 2 hosted by Capital xtra presenter of the celebration will take place today with many guests including BEFFTA special honour recipient Sam Sarpong who flew in from LA with his MTV crew. Sam will be picking BEFFTA FASHION ICON award today.

The full list of last night’s winners are below:

  1. Best Female Act: Beverly Knight
  2. Best Male Act: Wiley
  3. Best Unsigned Act: Roucheone
  4. Best Gospel Act: Lurine Cato
  5. Best International Gospel Act: Emmy Kosgey
  6. Best International Act: Jose Chameleone
  7. Best UK Caribbean Act: Vivian Jones
  8. Best International Caribbean Act: Bennie Man
  9. Best Producer: Mafia and Fluxy
  10. Best Video Director: Dego Visionz
  11. Best Music Video Producer: Mastermind media
  12. Best Music Video DOP: Nang TV
  13. Best Music Video: Dbanj(Oliver Twist)
  14. Best record label: Stringray Records
  15. Best Comedian: Anne Kansiime
  16. Best Newspaper: Trumpet
  17. Journalist of the year: Noellin Imoh
  18. Best community website: CaribDirect
  19. Best Hair Stylist: JDFK
  20. Best Wardrobe Stylist: Style Check by Dee
  21. Best Make-up artist: Libeks Beauty Consultant
  22. Best Beauty Pageant: Miss Black Africa
  23. Best Beauty Queen: Chanice Thompson
  24. Best Beauty Pageant Director: Dele Onabowu
  25. Best Former Beauty queen: Gloria Elongo
  26. Best film director: Niyi Towolawi
  27. Best film Actor: Ikenna Obi
  28. Best film Actresses: Yvonne Hays
  29. Best Film: Turning Point
  30. Best Short Film: Violet( Directed by Jett Jermaine)
  31. Best screenwriter/Scriptwriter: Freddy Kruga
  32. Best Cinematographer:Nelson Spyke
  33. Best film Producer:Theodora Ibekwe
  34. Best events promoter: Focus Organisation
  35. Best Art Director: Reuben Joseph
  36. Best Spoken Word artist/Poet: Alim Kamara

UK NOLLYWOOD FILM PRODUCER THEODORA IBEKWE RECEIVES BEFFTA HONORARY AWARD

BEFFTA RISING STAR AWARD - THEODORA IBEKWE

BEFFTA RISING STAR AWARD - THEODORA IBEKWE-OYEBADE

UK Nollywood Superstar and Producer of the highly successful move – Shameful Deceit, Theodora Ibekwe-Oyebade, has been honoured with a BEFFTA RISING STAR award.

Born and raised in Edo State, Theodora Ibekwe-Oyebade originally hails from Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria. Considered a child prodigy by her primary tutors, Theodora’s parents wanted her to pursue education as far as she could take it. This led to a certificate in Education at Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State and later on she studied Accounting at the University of Lagos. Even though she excelled in academics, Theodora also greatly admired entertainers and all things entertainment. After her University education, she decided to move to the UK in order to seek out other opportunities.

The multi-award winner and who regularly graces the cover of UK-African magazines, she founded the Miss Elegant international a beauty pageant in 2009. This really propelled her into the limelight and a few years later, she took the pageant one step further with the Miss Elegant international TV show. The TV show aired on the only African TV station at the time; BEN TV. Through this medium, she became a well-known promoter in the African-UK entertainment industry. An avid entrepreneur at heart, she then became a Director with Starlywood (www.starlywood.com), which is competition-based talent show, which is aimed at discovering young Black talent in the UK. With offers pouring in from African celebrities  for her to promote and consult on their entertainment projects, Theodora then created Theodora PR, a media and consultancy PR firm for Black talent in the diaspora(www.theodoraibekwepr.com)

A chance encounter as a stand-in MC at an event introduced her to George Kelly Toghanro. Incidentally, George was casting for a new movie with Nollywood star Jim Iyke, and was so impressed by her performance that he offered her the lead role. This led to her big break in movies. She then went on to star in other movies and last February 2013, took on her first role as a producer for the movie Shameful Deceit; which recorded the highest attended African movie premiere in any Odeon cinemas in the UK.

Theodora Ibekwe -Oyebade recently tied the knot and the budding entrepreneur continues to create opportunities for herself in the UK-African entertainment industry.

She has supported and helped raise funds for various charities and has received 15 awards. She has also spearheaded many events including pageants and movie premieres. Recently, she was made the Face of ZAFAA (Zulu African Film Academy Awards) 2013-14.

“Theodora Ibekwe’s story is very intriguing, she has set an example for many people who wish to start from nothing to something great in a tough industry to crack, we are happy to honour her with this special award,” said BEFFTA founder Pauline Long.

The star will pick up the BEFFTA RISING STAR AWARD on 25th October at the grand BEFFTA UK  AWARDS celebration at Hippodrome, Golders Green in the presence of an international audience. Previous recipients of BEFFTA special honorary awards include the legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, international designer Adebayo Jones and many more.

CNN HERO BETTY MAKONI RECEIVES BEFFTA HUMANITARIAN AWARD

BETTY MAKONI RECEIVES BEFFTA HUMANITARIAN AWARD

BETTY MAKONI RECEIVES BEFFTA HUMANITARIAN AWARD

BEFFTA awards UK team are please to honour CNN Hero and philanthropist Betty Makoni with a special honorary award; BEFFTA HUMANITARIAN AWARD. Betty Makoni`s experiences shaped her to be the advocate and champion for girls rights she is today. Orphaned at age 9, she grew up as one of the most poorest and marginalised African girls in the early 1980s and the education she attained up to degree level was through the Work For Your Education program where she became a child labourer at a middle girls` catholic school in Zimbabwe and it is this experience that shaped her to be the humanitarian she is today. In 1998 she founded the Girl Child Network in her home country and gave her time fundraising in order to build Girls Empowerment Villages that rehabilitated over 70 000 girls sexually abused. Realising what she had done to empower herself as a poor girl , she went back into the poorest areas of Zimbabwe with a leadership and mentorship program that inspired, motivated and empowered over 350 000 girls in school based clubs. Today Girl Child Network is a model replicated in six African countries with her volunteer time to train, nurture and support many leaders. Even though many associate Betty Makoni with formation of Girl Child Network only, she has many organisations she formed like Ray of Hope in Zimbabwe which supports survivors of domestic violence at grassroots level. Her life was spent volunteering to shape policies and strategies of other big organisations like Oxfam Novib, UNAIDS and currently she is dedicated to supporting the work of Restored UK as a Trustee to ensure there is a strong global alliance to stop violence against women. Girls round the world have expressed gratitude to Muzvare Betty Makoni as they passionately call her by writing her story and making it a life donation that has inspired and empowered many girls round the world. One of her girls she admires the most Memory Bandera set up Girl Child Network Uganda where she helps many girls.

For all her hard and passionate work she has been featured by major television stations and global newspapers like Metro UK just recently as Woman of Courage, CNN, BBC, Huffington Post, Channel Five UK, New York Times, Marie Claire, Voice of America, The South African to name but a few. The world has responded by documenting the success of her work and the many beneficiaries whose lives were saved or transformed. CNN, Dalai Lama, World Children`s Prize and My Hero`s Project awarded Betty Makoni as a hero. Zimbabwe Institute of Management awarded their first national contribution to Betty Makoni. Her tribe where she is a royal officially conferred the Title Muzvare- Her Royal Highness The Princess to Betty Makoni for saving girls lives. To her name are 34 global awards from the most Prestigious organisations in the world making her the most awarded African women where with the Decade Global Child Rights hero she became one of the honorary winners alongside President Nelson Mandela. Despite the challenges, persecutions and trials and tribulations, Betty Makoni has not stopped her humanitarian work to rescue and protect the most vulnerable women and children wherever she sees them suffering. She has become the spokesperson and advocate of the voiceless. She recently published her second book entitled Never again, not to any woman or girl again and has gone to inspire and speak to many women round the globe on the need to strengthen their work and build sustainable income at grass-root level to support whatever innovative strategies that alleviate poverty and violence. Her efforts are focused in creating the Girls Empowerment and Education Fund to be managed by Girl Child Network Worldwide ensuring marginalised girls in Africa get support for their projects without bureaucracy and delays leading to loss of lives and human potential. She is developing her career as a gender based violence expert hence recently she was selected to be part of the Team of experts to work on Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict an initiative by Foreign office. She says that for her life she will work to save the most vulnerable and powerless women and girls and those invisible.

On bestowing this special honour to a special woman, Pauline Long who is BEFFTA founder said, “this is a fitting tribute to a special woman who has dedicated her entire life to being a voice for abused women and girls, we are pleased to honour Betty Makoni.”

Betty will pick up the BEFFTA HUMANITARIAN AWARD on 25th October at the grand BEFFTA UK  AWARDS celebration at Hippodrome, Golders Green in the presence of an international audience. Previous recipients of BEFFTA special honorary awards include the legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, international designer Adebayo Jones and many more.

TALENTED MUSICIAN JOSEPH ROSS RECEIVES BEFFTA HONORARY AWARD

JOSEPH ROSS RECEIVES BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD

JOSEPH ROSS RECEIVES BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD

International talented musician Joseph Ross has been honoured with a BEFFTA special award BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD. Joseph Ross is a professional musician working at the highest level for the last 26 years. He has travelled extensively across the world touring many countries including Japan, South Africa, America and also throughout Europe, playing in various venues ranging from the small and intimate to arenas and huge outdoor stadiums.  Joseph has a flair for music and a gift that produces the finest  acoustic sounds and melody that  has allowed  listeners from all walks of life to be entertained.

Working in the capacity of Musical Director (MD) for twelve years, Joseph has built up a great reputation within the industry as a result of his creativity and attention to detail.  He has  had the pleasure of forming  rewarding relationships with major record companies such as Polydor and Sony BMG and numerous management executives on a one-to-one basis. Joseph is known for composing and arranging music for tours which also includes working alongside show directors and choreographers,  arranging and producing music and vocals for CD singles, radio, TV performances and  DVDs.

Within his MD capacity,  Joseph has worked with Will Young for a period of five years, James Brown, JLS, Lemar, S Club 7, Gareth Gates, Eternal, MKS, Joss Stone, Patti LaBelle, Jamelia, Coolio, Notorious BIG, Shola Ama, Mark Morrison, Lionel Richie,  Girls Aloud and so many other musical artist.

Joseph has shared his gift within the Music industry, his great personality and incredible sense of humour  allows him to be one of the finest musician that has ever lived.  A “God given “ talent that has crossed over within cultural boundaries, entertained many,  endured the best and worst of times”….yet still, Joseph Ross   is able to deliver a sterling performance over and over again.  This BEFFTA award is given as a reflection of what Joseph produces……nothing short of excellence !!!

BEFFTA founder Pauline Long said, “Joseph Ross is the real reason BEFFTA exists, a talented personality that has shaped many people’s career. It is surely time to honour him.”

The talented musician will pick up the BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD on 26th October at the grand BEFFTA UK  AWARDS celebration at Hippodrome, Golders Green in the presence of an international audience. Previous recipients of BEFFTA special honorary awards include the legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, international designer Adebayo Jones and many more.

LEGENDARY REGGAE STAR BB SEATON RECEIVES SPECIAL BEFFTA HONORARY AWARD

BB SEATON RECEIVES BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD

BB SEATON RECEIVES BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD

BEFFTA UK awards is pleased to honour legendary reggae artist BB Seaton BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD for his wonderful contribution to the industry for over 45 years. BB Seaton christened Harris Lloyd, born September 3rd  1944 under the star sign Virgo, is a rare combination of talent. A singer with a soulful voice, a qualified musician, producer and is credited as one of the most prolific song writers in the history of Jamaican music. He was educated at Cornwall College. BB Started singing and writing songs from his high school days and grew up listening to groups like the Platters, the Drifters, Temptations and the Four Tops to name but a few.

He had his first big hit in Jamaica when teaming up with Delano Stewart and Maurice Roberts to form the Gaylads. They recorded the hit single, “Lady with the Red Dress” on Clement Dodd’s Studio One label in 1967. After ten years of working with companies in Jamaica like Studio One, Tip Top Records, Beverly’s Records and Treasure Isle Records as Artist, A&R, Producer, Writer, Musician and Backing Vocalist, BB decided to go solo.

In 1972 he recorded his first solo single “Accept My Apology” which was an instant hit and there was no turning back from then on. His version of Bill Withers “Lean On Me”, Persuaders, “Thin line Between Love & Hate”,

To date BB has seventeen albums to his credit.

As a Record Producer, he has had hits like “Laugh It Off” by Phil Francis, “Tonight Is the Night” by Claudette Miller. As a writer, BB has written songs for top Jamaican and English artists like Ken Boothe, Marcia Griffiths, Dennis Brown, Delroy Wilson. He served as executive member of and Vice President of the Jamaica Federation of Musicians; he received the El Suzie Award as best song writer and the Jamaican Cultural Development Awards, in 1981 – 1982 for pioneering Jamaican music as a singer and songwriter. In 1997 he received the MKB Denoes & Geddes Award for his 38 years of invaluable contribution to the development and growth of Jamaican music since 1959; he received the IRWMA (International Reggae & World Music) life time achievement in the Hall Of Fame Award in 2007 & the Reggae Heritage Award in 2008. His ambition is to write a song that the whole world will sing.

The star will pick up the BEFFTA EXCELLENCE AWARD on 26th October at the grand BEFFTA UK  AWARDS celebration at Hippodrome, Golders Green in the presence of an international audience. Previous recipients of BEFFTA special honorary awards include the legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, international designer Adebayo Jones and many more.

VETERAN BEAUTICIAN ADEKEMI IMEVBORE UWAGA RECEIVES BEFFTA SPECIAL SPECIAL HONORARY AWARD

BEFFTA BEAUTY ICON ADEKEMI IMEVBORE -UWAGA

BEFFTA BEAUTY ICON ADEKEMI IMEVBORE -UWAGA

BEFFTA AWARDS UK is pleased to honour veteran make-up artist Adekemi Imevbore-Uwaga with a BEFFTA special honorary award BEFFTA BEAUTY ICON.
Nigerian born- UK based award-winning make up artist has been in the fashion and beauty business for over 10 years with a long list of high profile clients including Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde.
Adekemi popularly known in the industry as Kemi established KemiKings Make Up in 2003 in Nigeria at a time when make-up artists were relatively under-appreciated, she had a huge task convincing clients to take up her services yet through the lows she managed to curve a niche which enabled her to establish a beauty retail company. KemiKings Beauty has since streamed into several facets of cosmetics artistry including make-up school and hairstyling bar. The KemiKings beauty line comprises of make-up brushes, eye shadows, lipsticks and face and eye primers. Her range mainly targets the woman of colour as they are not well catered for in the mainstream beauty market.
Annually Kemi and her beauty team give back to the community through their free make-up and head-gear classes for less privileged upcoming artists. They also support the breast cancer foundation through the Look Good Feel Better organisation by providing support and make application skills to women going through the ailment. Proceeds also go to Path To Possibilities charity to help put and keep less privileged Nigerian children in school.
On receiving BEFFTA SPECIAL HONORARY AWARD Kemi said, “This definitely counts as one of the best things to happen to me. A recognition of this magnitude came as a surprise and I truly appreciate. Special dedication of the award to my husband, my rock and strength, my children, friends, family, colleagues and my clients.”

The celebrity international beauty expert will pick up the BEFFTA BEAUTY ICON AWARD on 25th October at the grand BEFFTA UK  AWARDS celebration at Hippodrome, Golders Green in the presence of an international audience. Previous recipients of BEFFTA special honorary awards include the legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, international designer Adebayo Jones and many more.

SUPERMODEL NANA AFUA ANTWI RECEIVES BEFFTA HONORARY AWARD

NANA ANTWI BEFFTA YOUNG ACHIEVER

NANA ANTWI BEFFTA YOUNG ACHIEVER

BEFFTA awards UK is pleased to honour supermodel and fashion designer Nana Afua Antwi with a special honorary award BEFFTA YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD.

Nana Afua Antwi is a British fashion model originated from  Kumasi Ashanti in Ghana . She is the winner for Britain’s Top Model of Colour Cycle 5 and BEFFTA Awards Winner Female Model of the Year,Cover Girl for Feb/March 2013 Issue of best selling International Magazine New Africa Woman, Cover Girl for Black Hair Magazine August/ September Issue which was voted one of the best black magazine cover in America in October 2011. Nana Afua is the current face and Ambassador for BEFFTA THIS IS LOVE Campaign promoting anti hate anti violence among youth in the UK. She graduated from Thurrock and Basildon College studying Art & Design and a furthered at the London College of Fashion studying fashion illustration.

In June 2009, she was scouted by a Model Agent for London Fashion Week which kicked off her Modeling career. She is also an award winning Model for M&M Excellence Awards in September 2009 based in Africa. In November 2009 she was highly inspired on documentary shown on London BBC of women who were slain and lost their lives mining in a rural part of Ghana. Most of these women were single Mothers living behind children. This was a big motivation which inspired her to be spokes Ambassador for Black Women going through harsh lives. This Campaign was a key platform which encouraged her to compete for Top Model of Colour UK, established modeling  competition for Models of Colour.

Winning the competition was  a dream come true which  enabled her to work on a charity project campaign named after her late Mother Akosua Odei Foundation was launched on May 26th 2012 in Hotel Russel West London‘’ in aid of Single Mothers/Women living harsh lives in the rural   Ghana and Africa. Nana has also had the chance to walk with Matthew Williamson and got featured in his A/W 2011 Catwalk Show in London.  She has been featured in several publications in London, America, Jamaica , Ghana and Nigeria. Her work has also been featured in Pride Magazine, Ninetynine Magazine, Black beauty and Hair, New African Woman Magazine. She’s also been the Cover for May 2012 Issue for Tropics Magazine (South Africa), Capital Ace Factory Magazine (France) Tiya Hair & Fashion Magazine and Afro pulp Magazine. The inspirational model is currently working on her clothing line collection ‘adopted Culture’’ which was featured in Africa Fashion Week 2013. The clothing line has already set the bar after a massive press release.

The multi-award winning model and entrepreneur will pick up the BEFFTA YOUNG ACHIEVER AWARD on 25th October at the grand BEFFTA UK  AWARDS celebration at Hippodrome, Golders Green in the presence of an international audience. Previous recipients of BEFFTA special honorary awards include the legendary broadcaster Sir Trevor McDonald OBE, Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, international designer Adebayo Jones and many more.

BEFFTA UK 2013 NOMINEES REVEALED AT A GLITZY PRESS AND NOMINATION LAUNCH IN MAYFAIR

Designer Kwame Koranteng, BEFFTA award winning model Lisette Mibo, supermodel Adrian Vincent and top models graces the press and nomination launch

Designer Kwame Koranteng, BEFFTA award winning model Lisette Mibo, supermodel Adrian Vincent and top models graces the press and nomination launch

RnB Singer Valentine and his dancers grace the launch in Mayfair

RnB Singer Valentine and his dancers grace the launch in Mayfair

BEFFTA founder Pauline Long addresses guests at BEFFTA wards UK launch in Mayfair

BEFFTA founder Pauline Long addresses guests at BEFFTA wards UK launch in Mayfair, London.

The amazing D3 dancer at the nomination launch

The amazing D3 dancer at the nomination launch

Stars gathered in large numbers for the 5th annual BEFFTA UK press and nomination launch in Babble Mayfair to find out who made it to the final list. BEFFTA(Black Entertainment Film Fashion Television and Arts) awards founded by the inspirational Pauline Long is celebrating 5 years of honours industry personalities. The award ceremony which honours under one roof film directors, actors, beauty pageants, musicians, fashion designers, journalists, authors, models, radio personalities, TV personalities amongst others will take place on 25th and 26th October hosted by international comedian Eddie Kadi and ITV news reader Charlene white.

Online voting will begin on 6th October.

BEFFTA UK 2013 NOMINATION LIST

Entertainment

Music

  1. Best Female Act: Emeli Sande, Beverly Knight, Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke,
  2. Best Male Act: Akala, Wiley, Skepta, Dizzie Rascal, Fuse ODG, John Hectic, Sway, Lemar, Wretch 32
  3. Best Gospel Act: Divine Impact, Lyrical Soldier, one Legacy, Lurine Cato, Isebella, David Keigh, Dolly P, Guvna B, Sam Adebanjo & DTWG, victizzle, Jahmain King, Meleke, New Rivers Choir,  Muyiwa and Riversongz,
  4. Best Unsigned Act: Valentine, Starboy Nathan, 3RA, J Appiah, Debra Debs, Vicky Sola, Duane Flame, Kersha Bailey, Young O, Lydia Maddix, Justified Prince, Wilson, Lovella Ellis, Ragz CV, Marvel, Melody Keys , Ayo Dele, Belinda Kae, Mazey banks, Lifford david Shillingford, Roucheon, Razor, PearlNATASHA, Ellapaige
  5. Best International Act: Nature, Rhihanna, Dbanj, Zahara, Jose Chameleone , Peter Zagaze, Grey Naava
  6. Best UK AfroBeats Act:   Vj Oj, Aina More, Weray ent, Moelogo, Mista Silva, May7ven, Fuse ODG, Dola Billz, Dizzy Vocal Chameleone, Musik Maestro, Honey B, Afrika Boy, Shiikane, Izeal, Big Tizzy, Komo, RDC Soldier, Vibe squad, Deoba Authentic, Hyper hype,
  7. Best UK Caribbean Act: Roger Robin, Sandra Cross, Maxi Priest, Lloyd Brown, Vivian Jones, Stylo G
  8. Best International Afrobeats Act: Atumpan, Davido, Wizkid, R2bees, Sarkordie, P Square, Timaya, Olamide, Tillaman, Dr Sid, Jose Chameleone, Omawunmi, Wande Coal
  9. Best International Caribbean Act: Nature, Aidonia, Popcaan, Beenie Man, Gyptian, Shabba Ranks
  10. Best Music Producer: Ayo Beatz, Akala, Dilly, Shaback Beautiful Sounds, Hypertone, OY,
    Rymez, J Weathers, Davinche, Mafia and Fluxy
  11. Best Video Director: Vertex, Moe Musa, Uvi Orugon, Dego Visionz, Elmino,
    AJE Filmworks, Antoine Dixon-Bellot, Clarence Peters, Luke Biggin, Femi Best Touch
  12. Best Music Video Producer: Mastermind Media, Staple House, Luti Media,
  13. Best Music Video DOP: Aaron reid, Nang TV,  Elmino
  14. Best Music Video: Chip (Londoner), Wande Coal (Go Low), Dbanj (Oliver Twist)
  15. Best UK Reggae Act: Winston Francis, Little Roy, Michael Prophet, Donna Marie, Stylo G, Lovella Ellis
  16. Best International Gospel Act: Kay Morris, Emmy Kosgey, Redemption Voices, Nathaniel Bassey, Uche, Henrisoul, Preachers
  17. Best Record Label: Zoe Records, Bluejeanz Records, Stingray Records, Babycamp Records, Just Bounce Records, Boy Better Know, Dcypha Productions

Dance

  1. Best Dance Act: D3 DANCERS, DANKIRA, Uniques silver dancers, Hot legs dance company, Project G , CEO Dancers. FDC Ladies, High Rollaz, ICSN dance troupe
  2. Best Dance Choreographer: Kendrick Sandy, Ezekiel Koleosho, Sherrie Silver, Vanessa Adekole, Sharma Jay, Kemi Durosinmi

Comedy

  1. Best Comedian: A dot, Obonjo, Anne Kasiime, Wale Gates, Richard Blackhood, Don’t Jealous Me, Anne Kansiime, Eddie Kadi, Richard Blackhood, Babatunde, Funmbi,  Ola the comedian

Radio

  1. Station of the year: Roots FM, Tropical FM, Voice of Africa Radio, Guess Radio, Bang Radio, Colourful Radio, Premier Gospel, Inspiration fm, Rinse FM, Musicnetradio.com, Zimonline Radio, London Christian Radio, AlterSound Worship radio, Unity 101, Tropical Radio
  2. Radio personality of the year: Jenni Steele, Henry Bonsu, Deoba Authentic,
    Dotun Adebayo, Wayne Boucaud, Benita White,Tony Fanandez, Simbarashe Nyanhanga, Kojo, Veronica Gordon

Newspapers/Magazines/Blogs

  1. Best Community Newspaper: Afro News, Trumpet, The Voice, Nigerian Watch
  2. Magazine of the year: Keep The Faith, Heritage Magazine, New African Woman, Zen, Tropical, OK! Nigeria, African Cuisine Magazine, Nu People magazine,Itsblackcurrant.com, Afropulp, Fab Afrique, Soul Culture, C. HUB, Pride Magazine, Black Hair Magazine, Black Beauty and Hair, Fab Magazine
  3. Journalist of the year: Henry Bonsu, Regina Jere Malanda, Rodney Hinds, Stephen Ogongo, David Roberts, Noellin Imoh
  4. Blog of the year: African Dazzle, Fashion Police, We Plug Good Music, BooshBingBang, Not Just Ok, Kickin’ it with the Kinks, Simply Glamorous Fashion, Ronnie J Health and Beauty, Chizy’s Spyware, Gistfactory.com, Bella Naija, Jestinageorge.com, De Avenue, Pappzd, Eka Start Up Cooperation
  5. Best Community News Website: CaribDirect, ItzCaribbean, AfroNews, Eco Media, Ugandan Buzz, Misterseed.com, Madnewsuk.com, uk africans

Events

  1. Best Events Promoter: DJA Media, Theodora PR, UK Unsigned Hype, Raj PR, Focus Organisation, Triforce Promotions, Cams pro UK, Atoss Entertainment, Smade, Cokobar.com, Bashment Vibez, ABM Promotions, Kasiluv Productions, Disk & Jockey Media, Fashions Finest, Play Entertainment,

DJ

  1. DJ of the year: Dj Ace, Dj 279, Dj Alexo, Dj Lanre, Dj Que, Dj Mac Pro, Dj Fabio, Dj Gabe, Dj Slipa, Frankie Prazer, Dj Bayo, Dj Tallest, Dj Omo White, Dj Whatever, Dj Unbeetable, Dj Daddy Ernie, Dj Kumbi, Dj Jerry, Dj Deoba Authentic, Dj Edu, Dj Neptune Oladuni, Dj Yung Milli, Dj Homeboy, DJ French Kiss, DJ Lady G2, Dj Field, Dj Mkhukhwini, Dj Natty B

Photographers

  1. Best Photographer:
    Aron Dunworth, Erik Erxon, Josh Daniels, Sync Photos, Abi Oshodi, iSmiles Photos, TiDG Visuals, Michael Tubes, Vivida, Ade Adetayo, Zan The Photographer, Simon Frederick, The Atunbi Experience, Fabian Jones, Benjamin Bin-Meh, Karlton Chambers

Fashion Designers

  1. Best Male Fashion Designer: Kitoko, DK Darlington, Kwame Koranteng, Sola Cash,  Obiora Ichiebuka, Zerkaraya Solomon
  2. Best Female Fashion Designer: House of Adjeiwaah, House of Aranu, LinmiR Millinery, Giberky, Sylvia Fumudo, Zuwa Re, Liiber London, House Of Aranu, Established Beautique, Desiri Couture, Tina Lobondi, Clariscia Gill Couture, Korlekie, Pembe Kumbi, Jessica Baah, Dancing cupcakes online boutique, Petiz Fashion Accessories, Agata Reis, Vero Luke

Stylists

  1. Best Hair Stylist: Dionne Smith, House of JDFK, Purely Natural Hair, Libeks beauty consultant, Adeola Olase, Charlene Cumberbatch, Adeyinka Adekogbe
  2. Best Wardrobe Stylist: Style Check by Dee, A.Y.O Clothing, Crystal Deroche, Yemisi Adedipe, Potential U, Wale Adewale

Make-up Artists

  1. Best Make-up Artist: Joy Adenuga, Siniorita Lutete, Sophia Taylor, Bolanle Okusanya Feyita, ABIZART, House of JDFK, Semire MUA, Mink, DJE Make Up, Libeks Beauty Consultant, Ganga Bahambra, Edee Beau, CSG Make-up and beauty, Bimtan Elufowoju of Faces of Bodin, Pretty Woman by Tosin Makinwa, Moi MUA, Lola Maja – Okojevoh

Fashion Choreographers

  1. Best Fashion Choreographer: Sola Oyebade, Reuben Joseph, Malisha Da Queen, Nadim Saleem,

Models

  1. Best male model: Adrian, Jeremy Osei Tutu Vincent, Ebrima Sey, Michael Moonchild, Martins Igbinedion, Dudley O’Shaughnessy, Hassan Resse, Guetan, Jeremy Boateng, Salisu Abdulai, Adonis O’Holi, Julius Rueben
  2. Best female model: Nana Afua Antwi, Vanessa agyman, Lisette Mibo, Rosemary Chileshe, Adunni Haruna, Paula Okunzuwa, Cleopatra Wood, Amie Mustafa Joof, Maggie Sarai, Vicky Tjirimuje, Amelia Lola, Samar Khoury, Cynthia Chisom, Estelle Digridi, Symara Templeman, Gayle Thompson, Ayoola Bakare, Estelle Met, Malaika Firth, Shanelle Banton, Anita Exstasy Siobhan C Ridguard, Nyasha Matohondze
    Nelly Defaut
  3. Best Modelling Agency: Demus Castings, Face4Music, Mahogany Models,

Beauty Pageants

  1. Best Beauty Pageant: Miss Congo UK, Miss Black Africa UK, Miss Ghana UK, Miss Trinidad and Tobago, Miss Uganda UK, Miss Nubian UK, Miss Jamaica UK, Miss Cameroon UK
  2. Best Beauty Queen: (Gemma Feare) Miss Jamaica UK, (Gladys Kyotungire)Miss Uganda UK, (Maria Cruz Toichoa)Miss Nubian UK, (Samaia Tchapesseka) Miss Black Africa UK, (Michele Esther Vigan)Miss Cameroon UK
  3. Best Former Beauty Queen: Sandra Gondora, Ruvombo Chinzou, Chelsea Mandizha, Amelia Lola, Gloria Elongo
  4. Best Beauty Pageant Director: Jacqueline Wabara, Jacqueline Matovu, Dele Onabowu, Frankos Tshimpuki

Film Category

  1. Best director: Niyi Towolawi, Ruke Amata, Sharon Agina, Nelson Spyke, Lucian Msamati, Sunny kiNG, Dotun Adebayo, Anthony Abuah, Fredi Kruga, Jett Jermaine, Andy Mundy-Castle, Mundia Situmbeko, Yvonne Phillip ,Eric Kolelas
  2. Best Actor: David Ajala, Ikenna Obi, Lanre Balogun, Kevwe Ogunje, Lateef Lovejoy, Peter Silva, Eric Kolelas
  3. Best Actress: Moji Bamtefa, Elenoar Agala, Marie Gomez, Olivia Eze, Yvonne Hays, Segilola Scott, Jackie Appiah,
  4. Best Film: Woolwich Boys, Shameful Deceit, London Na Wa, Turning point, International Games, Pearls Of Africa, We Are poets, The past came calling, Pass The Comb, The Fade, Kicking it with the kinks
  5. Best screenwriter/Scriptwriter: Eve Ebahor, Anthony Abuah, Samuell Benta, Niyi Towolawi, Fredi Kruga , Sharon Agina, Eric Kolelas
  6. Best theatre production: Meet The Adebanjos, The Epic Adventure of Nhamo the Manyika Warrior and His Sexy Wife Chipo, Trim, Skin Teeth
  7. Best Cinematographer: Nelson Spyke, Aaron Reid,
    magnus Mbanu
  8. Best Producer: Theodora Ibekwe, Niyi Olotawi, Rita Nzelu, Denton Chikura, Yvone Phillip
  9. Best Short Film: Unspoken(Directed by Sunny King), Ambition to Love(directed by Jordan Pitt), Love prevails(directed by Segilola Scott and Edith Nwekenta), Four corners(Directed by Mark Straker, Lucy(Directed by Elodene Baker), A Conversation (Directed by Jett Jermaine), Violet( Directed by Jett Jermaine), If Only( Directed by Fredi Kruga), Fifty Pence(Directed by Eric Kolelas)

TV Category

  1. Best Actress: Moji Bamfeta, Chizzy Akudolu, Freema Agyemam, Segilola scott, Antonia Thomas, Diane Parish, Romeena Beri,
  2. Best Actor: David Ajala, Jimmy Akingbola, Chucky Venice, Ashley Walters,
    Samuell Benta, Lateef lovejoy, Wil Johnson, Wale Ojo, Nathan Stewart Jarrett , Andy Ubera
  3. Best TV Station: OH TV, BEN TV, VOX AFRICA, THE AFRICA CHANNEL
  4. Best TV Show: The Sporah Show(VOX AFRICA), The Magazine Show(BEN TV), Real Talk(OH TV), Time To Shine(OH TV), Naija Bites(OH TV), Tea With The Duchess(Online) BBS(BEN TV), Sports360(VoxAfrica), AfroBuzz(Vox Africa)Breakfast Show With Yemi Balogun(Olive TV)
  5. Best TV personality; Sporah Njau, Mary Shittu, Henry Bonsu, Charlene White, Yemi Balogun
  6. Best presenter: Uncle and Mistar, Franny Oprah, Sporah Njau, Mary Shittu, Frankie Prazer, Trish Adudu, Nena Huntaz, Avida Buyombi, Natalia Roni, Femi Amusan, James Sherwood, Mimi Fawaz, Adesope Olajide, Kome Adeosun
  7. Best Webseries: Meet The Adebanjos, Trim, All about McKenzies, Venus Vs Mars, Unfamous, Redemptions, Brothers With No Game, Reckless,
  8. Best online TV: Factory 78, Fusion TV, SBTV, Disk&Jockey Media, Tea With The Duchess, 2HBTV , Cut The Chat, SMETV, Soul Culture TV, Tropical Radio
  9. Best Voice Over Artist: Natalyia Roni, Patrick McKenzie, Faridah Rimmer

ART Category

  1. Best Spoken Word Artist/Poets: Suli Breaks, Lyrical HEALER, George The Poet, We are poets, Oneness Sankara, Alim Kamara, Dean Atta, Breis
  2. Best Art Director: Reuben Joseph, Sola Oyebade, Ola Shobowale, Julius Reuben
  3. Best Author: Onyi Anyando, Betty Makoni, Fikelephi Jackson, Deji Yusuf, Tony Fernandez Ferdinand Lawson, Winsome Duncan, Julian Hall, Diane Hall, Ian T Sebas, Scotty Unfamous, Ella December, JC Johnson, Opy Onas, Everald Williams