Speakers 2025

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Imaobong Nkanga-Ekwere is a lawyer who bridges law and beauty. With over ten years of corporate and regulatory experience, she advises beauty brands, medspas, and wellness businesses on compliance, intellectual property, and risk management. As Lead Counsel at Helmsword Solicitors, she also offers legal concierge services to cosmetic surgery clients, providing peace of mind during life-changing procedures.

Her work spans Africa’s dynamic beauty and fashion industries, where she champions innovation, sustainability, and brand protection. She is the author of Don’t Get Botched, a practical legal guide for those considering cosmetic or plastic surgery.

Beyond legal practice, Imaobong is a beauty writer. She contributes to Beauty in Lagos through the BIL Curated Voices and has written for The Beauty Report. She has collaborated with industry leaders including EATOW, The Nail Boutique, RLG Cosmetics, T’alamode, and the Professional Association of Spa and Cosmetologists, bridging creativity, compliance, and growth.

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Anu Obafemi is a Trauma Nurse and Medical Practitioner specialising in Aesthetic Medicine, who studied, trained, and currently works in Canada. She is a Registered Medical Practitioner with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) and has dedicated over sixteen years to the Emergency Department. Driven by a deep passion for aesthetics, Anu has continuously pursued certifications and advanced training in all areas of Aesthetic Medicine. She has had the privilege of working under and alongside some of the world’s leading Medical Practitioners and Aestheticians, further enhancing her experience and expertise in delivering both cosmetic and non-cosmetic procedures across all Fitzpatrick skin types.

Anu is extensively trained and certified in Botox, fillers, hair loss treatment, non-surgical fat lipolysis, and wellness procedures, including but not limited to Skin Biology, chemical peels, acne management, pigmentation treatment, laser procedures, and medical-grade facials. Dedicated to lifelong learning, she remains committed to training others in Aesthetic Medicine while providing exceptional, tailored results that reflect her passion and professionalism.

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Vanessa is a young lawyer at Banwo & Ighodalo who specializes in Intellectual Property, Data Protection, Media & Entertainment law, with a focus on regulatory compliance and adherence to international best practices. She has ardently developed significant experience in these interconnected areas of law, and regularly supports global and local clients by providing legal advisory services on various issues.

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Tolu is an Internationally Certified Trichologist and founder of Bloom Hair Atelier, a holistic haircare salon in Ikoyi. Recognised as the Fine Hair Coach, Tolu is also the driving force behind Curessa, Africa’s AI-driven hair care brand.

With a background spanning finance, business administration, psychology, and cultural anthropology, Tolu brings a structured, science-based, and culturally relevant approach to hair wellness for textured hair consumers across Africa and the diaspora. After 15 years in corporate finance, Tolu transitioned into beauty entrepreneurship, establishing a salon that prioritises healing, client education, and evidence-based care.

Her journey into trichology was inspired by personal experiences with hair loss and a passion for science-led, empathetic solutions. Through Curessa, she leverages data and technology, including AI-powered consultations and diagnostics, to deliver personalised solutions.

An advocate for ethical business and innovation, Tolu is committed to advancing Africa’s beauty industry through research, data-driven insights and partnerships.

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Valerie Ike is a seasoned presenter and producer with over a decade of experience in storytelling and media. She is the Co-founder and Head of Production at Palava Pictures, a Lagos-based production company shaping contemporary African narratives through film and visual content. Beyond production, Valerie serves as Brand Consultant for Imad Eduso, where she guides the brand’s creative direction and identity. Her work extends to offering strategic and creative advice to emerging brands across fashion and culture, reflecting her commitment to elevating African voices and aesthetics through authentic, intentional storytelling.

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Abiola Desalu is the founder and CEO of Modárà Natural Skincare, a luxury brand that has been transforming African wellness traditions into globally recognized skincare solutions since 2015.

She has built a brand that seamlessly bridges heritage and innovation, creating handcrafted, well-researched products that celebrate the richness of African ethnobotanical plants.

From the company's base in Lagos, Abiola has leads her team and built Modára into an internationally acclaimed skincare line that serves people with sensitive and reactive skin across all age groups. Modárà’s signature collection features premium shea body butters, nourishing oils, and authentic African black soap washes.

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Dr. Ayesha Omolara Akinkugbe is an Associate Professor in the Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, and a Consultant Dermatologist and Genitourinary Physician at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.

A Fellow of the West African College of Physicians, she brings over 15 years of experience in clinical dermatology, academic teaching, and research.

Dr. Akinkugbe has also played a pivotal role in postgraduate dermatology education, contributing to curriculum development, training, and examination for the West African College of Physicians.

Driven by a passion for improving dermatologic care in resource-limited settings, Dr. Akinkugbe aims to expand her research collaborations globally and influence health policy to enhance skin health outcomes in Nigeria and beyond.

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Dr. Jamila is a passionate advocate for well-being, leading a comprehensive non-toxic beauty product directory and actively educating on social media about the benefits of non-toxic living. Her efforts empower consumers and promote community well-being.

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Dr. Uju Rapu is an aesthetic physician and founder of Bel Fiore Medical Aesthetics and Serenity Med Spa. She specializes in awake liposuction, body contouring, cosmetic dermatology, injectables, and medical weight loss — helping clients achieve natural, refined results through evidence-based treatments.

She holds a Doctor of Medicine, a Diploma in Clinical Dermatology, and a Master’s in Aesthetic Medicine from Queen Mary University of London, with international training across the UK, Jamaica, Korea, and Nigeria. Known for her patient-centered approach, Dr. Rapu combines science, artistry, and compassion in every treatment.

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Dr. Uzoamaka Iloabachie, professionally known as Dr. Uzo, is a highly trained Aesthetic Dermatologist and Laser Specialist, and the Clinic Director of Skintisfaction Aesthetic Dermatology & Laser Clinic. She has received extensive international training from leading experts and professional bodies in the fields of Aesthetic Medicine, Clinical Dermatology, and Laser Therapies, and holds academic certifications from some of the world’s most prestigious institutions.

Dr. Uzo began her medical journey at Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria, where she earned her MBBS degree. She went on to pursue advanced studies in Dermatology and Aesthetic Medicine, obtaining a Medical Master’s degree in Clinical Dermatology from King’s College London in the UK.

Her commitment to continuous learning and excellence took her to the Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami, USA, where she was awarded the GEST Fellowship in Cosmetic Dermatology. She further distinguished herself by becoming a board-certified physician with the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Deepening her expertise, Dr. Uzo also earned a Master of Science in Aesthetic Medicine from Queen Mary University of London, graduating with distinction.

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Uzo is an international trainer with the North American Board of Aesthetic Medicine, where she has trained doctors, nurses, and beauty professionals in advanced aesthetic techniques.

She is also an active contributor to industry conversations, having been featured on speaking panels such as Beauty West Africa, Beauty in the Motherland and the Nigerian Association of Dermatologists conference. Her work has attracted collaborations with globally recognized skincare brands including Eucerin and La Roche-Posay.

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Fatima Bako Idris is the founder and creative director of Ovodi Skincare & Spa, a dynamic Nigerian brand celebrated for its fusion of science and nature in promoting radiant, healthy skin. As a certified medical aesthetician and cosmetic scientist, Fatima holds an international diploma in skincare formulation and is ITEC-certified, bringing both expertise and innovation to the beauty industry.

Through Ovodi, she has cultivated a loyal community of women who embrace safe, effective, and nourishing skincare rooted in African ingredients. Her spa, based in Kano, serves as a sanctuary for wellness—where women come not only to rejuvenate, but to learn and feel empowered in their skincare journeys.

Beyond her work as a formulator and entrepreneur, Fatima is a passionate advocate for growth within the beauty sector. She actively mentors emerging beauty professionals and inspires young women to pursue their dreams with purpose, creativity, and confidence.

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Grace Chinomso Oriaghan: Entrepreneur, Strategist, and Green Beauty Advocate

Grace Chinomso Oriaghan is a passionate African entrepreneur and innovator with over a decade of experience in business leadership, growth, and strategy. As the founder of *Shanyi Brands* and *Afri Botanica*She has steered her companies to become multi-award-winning entities with a global customer base in over 15 countries.

As a *Green Beauty Advocate* Grace is dedicated to building sustainable African businesses by leveraging local resources to create high-performance products. She is recognized as a leader by the *Tony Elumelu Foundation* and the *Women Entrepreneurship For Africa (WE4A)* program, with awards & nominations including the SME100 25 under 25, The Future Africa Awards, Her

Network Young Woman of the Year award, among others.

Grace is also an Executive MBA candidate at Rome Business School. She is an expert in transforming vision into market reality.

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Kemi Lewis is a Lawyer and Chartered Secretary turned Founder/ CEO, Natural Hair Stylist and Entrepreneur.

In August 2013, she pioneered KLS Natural Beauty Bar, Nigeria's first all-natural hair salon creating a hub for styling, training, and product retail.

As Creative Director, she has grown the brand from two staff to a leading beauty business with three locations and over 50 employees. Fondly called the Queen of Natural Hair Updos, Kemi’s passion for redefining natural hair has led her to train over 1000 stylists and Beauty Business Owners and found KLS Natural Hair Academy in 2018, an online school with students across Africa, Europe, and North America.

Her impact has earned multiple awards, including the ELOY Award for Best Hair Stylist (2018), the African Hair Summit Recognition (2018), and inclusion in Leading Ladies Africa’s Top 100 Inspiring Women (2018, 2023).

Kemi also serves on the Standards Organisation of Nigeria’s Technical Committee on Beauty and Wellness.

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Koyinsola Vera-Cruz is a certified trichologist with the World Trichology Society, New York and founder of Tresses Lagos, a consultation-led hair and scalp practice. For more than a decade, she has helped women solve hair loss and scalp concerns through clear diagnosis, honest education, and care that gets real results. Her team of professionals delivers personalised consultations and modern treatments.

Koyinsola believes the future of haircare is collaborative. She builds practical partnerships between clinics, salons, product makers, and educators so clients follow one clear plan and not mixed messages. She is shaping better standards by sharing insights, aligning training, and using simple tools with smart tech. Her mission is to make expert hair wellness in Africa accessible, technology-enabled, and deeply human, so every client leaves informed, confident, and seen.

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Chisom Ejekwu, popularly known as “Sommie,” is an Independent Cosmetic Scientist who has spent more than ten years advancing her expertise in cosmetic formulation. Rooted in Plant Biology and Biotechnology, she has built expertise in research, product development, and cosmeceutical efficacy through continuous learning and industry practice.

She is the Founder of Sommies World and The Botanist’s Alchemy, where she develops training programs for cosmetic formulators and runs a consultancy dedicated to cosmetic R&D. Over the years, she has worked with Nigerian and international Black-owned indie brands, supporting them across different aspects of product development—including R&D, labeling and compliance, marketing, and brand positioning.

In 2024, she launched the Ethical Formulators Virtual Summit, a pioneering event that convened industry experts to promote ethical practices, sustainable formulation, and compliance. A passionate advocate for safe and effective formulation, she continues to champion high standards as a member of NICOS(Society of Cosmetic Scientists Nigeria), IFSCC(International federation of Societies of Cosmetic chemists), and CHGN(Cosmetic Handcrafters guild of Nigeria)

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Ngozi is the Founder and CEO of Skin Foodie, a dynamic African beauty, skincare, and wellness brand that has become a trusted source for premium cosmetic ingredients and innovative formulations. With a strong foundation in cosmetic science and an unwavering passion for wellness and innovation, she has positioned Skin Foodie as a key partner for indie brands, beauty entrepreneurs, and skin and hair care enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond.

Through Skin Foodie, Ngozi is raising the bar for Africa’s beauty industry by making high-quality raw materials accessible, while championing education and product excellence. Her work supports the growth of indie formulators and empowers entrepreneurs to build safe, effective, and competitive beauty products.

Beyond business, Ngozi is a fitness lover, tennis enthusiast, and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment in entrepreneurship.

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Olumide Gbadebo is the Founder and CEO of Adunni Organics, a Nigerian premium skincare brand that fuses cosmetic science with Africa’s natural heritage to deliver high-quality, solution-driven beauty products. With a background in physiotherapy, marketing, and cosmetic science, she brings a distinctive balance of scientific expertise and business acumen to the beauty industry.

Since its inception, Adunni Organics has grown into a trusted consumer brand with loyal customers across five countries and a leading contract manufacturer serving both indie and established beauty businesses in West Africa and the diaspora. Under Olumide’s leadership, the brand has become a model for quality, innovation, and authenticity in African beauty.

Beyond building her own company, she is committed to advancing Nigeria’s beauty ecosystem. She serves as Trustee and Secretary of the Cosmetic Handcrafters Guild of Nigeria, driving initiatives that promote standardisation, compliance, and the global recognition of African beauty.

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Sinmisoluwa Adesanya is an attorney and the Executive Director and Founder of the Fashion Law Academy Africa, the continent’s pioneering institution dedicated to advancing education and thought leadership in fashion and beauty law. With a specialisation in fashion law and the creative industries, she has been instrumental in shaping the discourse on legal and policy frameworks within Africa’s fashion ecosystem.

Before founding the Academy, Sinmisoluwa worked with the Council for International African Fashion Education (CIAFE) to promote fashion and beauty law education across the continent. Her passion for policy has led her to present on policy frameworks at the Commonwealth Fashion Council, and her scholarship has been featured multiple times in *Bloomsbury Academic*.

Under her leadership, the Academy published several initiatives including Africa’s first Fashion Law Report and now offers specialised courses in fashion and beauty law. She is also the author of Navigating Fashion Law in Africa, the first book of its kind on the continent.

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Olusola Ojo is the Chief Scientist and Innovation Partner at The Lola Valor Company Ltd, a leading R&D and commercialization firm serving the FMCG cosmetics and personal care industry. With over a decade of experience in product research, innovation, and commercialization, she has emerged as one of Africa’s influential voices shaping the future of beauty and personal care.

She has worked with multinational FMCG companies and co-founded the Society of Cosmetic Scientists Nigeria (NICOS), now a national stakeholder body with over 100 members. Through Lola Valor, she bridges science, innovation, and market relevance—helping MSMEs, beauty founders, biotech companies, researchers, and multinational players scale breakthrough products from concept to shelf.

Her expertise spans skin, hair, scalp, personal hygiene, home care, quality systems, factory scale-up, safety assessments, and the use of African extracts in modern formulations. A sought-after consultant and speaker, she continues to advance Africa’s cosmetics value chain.

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Tito IBELEME is the founder and head makeup artist of T.A’la Mode Beauty. A graduate of Insurance and Actuarial Science from Imo State University, she went on to earn a Master’s degree in Economics from Swansea University, United Kingdom. She is married to renowned photographer Aham Ibeleme, and together they are raising two boys.

Tito began her beauty journey in April 2012, driven by a passion to help people feel beautiful and confident in their own skin. With over 12 years of professional experience, she has built a reputation as a dynamic force in the beauty industry.

Her portfolio includes working on the April 2019 cover of Vogue, where she made history as the first African-based makeup artist to work on the iconic publication. She has also worked with numerous celebrities for red carpet events, weddings, and major productions, and has been the personal makeup artist to award-winning actress Adesua Etomi-Wellington for over ten years.

Dedicated to raising industry standards, Tito focuses on teaching artists to master skin tones and undertones while also building sustainable and profitable businesses. She has hosted several highly attended masterclasses, and through her mentorship and internship programs, she has trained and inspired over 25 successful makeup artists, many of whom now thrive in their own careers.

With a skill set recognized on an international scale, Tito continues to set new benchmarks for excellence, artistry, and professionalism in the beauty world.

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Ogbelade Olayinka is a lawyer in training and emerging GRC professional with proven ability in the intersections of law, technology, and governance. She combines legal knowledge with hands-on experience in data protection, cybersecurity, and compliance, helping organisations implement practical governance and operational solutions.

She currently serves as Director of Operations at the Fashion Law Institute Africa, where she drives strategy, stakeholder engagement, and program execution to strengthen awareness of fashion law across the continent. At Case Simpli, she leads people strategy and personnel management, ensuring HR and operational systems align with compliance and growth objectives.

Olayinka has demonstrated her ability to translate complex legal and regulatory issues into actionable policies, frameworks, and operational practices. Her experience spans legal research, policy drafting, compliance program design, and organisational leadership. She is also the convener of Talk With Diane, a platform that fosters conversations on law, technology, and governance.

Her passion lies in shaping responsible innovation by ensuring that businesses and creatives can thrive within clear governance and compliance structures.

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Mr. Chinedu Okoye is the Managing Director of Chisuf Ventures Ltd, a leading Nigerian beauty and cosmetics distribution company with over 20 years of nationwide impact.

 A visionary business leader, he has brought innovation and structure to Nigeria’s deep trade while upholding consumer safety as his foremost priority. His commitment to authenticity and excellence inspired the creation of Perfect Trust Beauty and Wellness, a thriving retail network of nearly 300 team members, 15 official stores, and over 50 retail partnerships across the country.

This achievement reflects his dedication to bridging the gap between global beauty innovation and local market realities through exclusive distributorships, robust routes to market, and an uncompromising devotion to product authenticity.

As a market reformer, Mr. Okoye continues to drive a legacy built on trust, innovation, and service excellence — ensuring that the Nigerian beauty industry evolves with integrity, and an unwavering focus with the consumer at its heart.

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Layo Ogunbanwo is the Founder/CEO of Splice, West Africa's leading platform that streamlines booking, payment, and business management for beauty and wellness businesses. Her impressive career also includes serving as VP of Product Strategy at Piggyvest, West Africa's largest savings and investment platform, Product Lead at Nubank, the world's largest digital bank, and Axxess, a top healthcare software provider in North America.

With a wealth of experience spanning over 13 years in Latin America, Africa, and the US, Layo has made a significant impact by building products that have reached over 100 million people globally.

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Neya Kalu is a Serial Entrepreneur, Business Executive, and Philanthropist with over 12 years of cross-industry experience. She holds a Law degree and an MSc. in Financial Services Management from the University of Buckingham.

As CEO of Basecoat nail salons and Chairman of The Sun Nigeria newspaper, Sun Heavens Hotels and Resorts, Neya serves as Group Head overseeing a diverse portfolio spanning publishing, hospitality, transport, agriculture, gaming, renewable energy, and real estate within a family-owned enterprise.

Through the Neya Kalu Foundation and OUK Foundation, she champions women's empowerment and development, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals 1-6. A self-described "Sister's Keeper," she has spoken at prominent platforms, including the African Women in Leadership conference and HER Summit.

In 2024, Women in Journalism Africa named her among the 25 most powerful women in Journalism. Neya is also an avid reader with a passion for African literature.

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Ruqayya Tofa-Basheer is the founder of Raw Beauty Africa, a clean skincare brand pioneering Advanced African botanical formulations, and the African Botanics Beauty Association (ABBA), a pan-African platform advancing clean beauty standards, research, and trade. Through her work, she bridges indigenous African plant science with modern innovation — building a future where Africa isn’t just a source of raw ingredients, but a global leader in clean, conscious beauty.

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Subuola Oyeleye is the visionary founder of Beauty Hut Africa, a venture-backed beauty and personal care retail and distribution company headquartered in Nigeria. With extensive experience in the global beauty and personal care industry, she is dedicated to empowering African women in an industry they know best.

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Violet Addy is a brand strategist and entrepreneur, and the founder of Byote, a Lagos-based natural skincare brand committed to creating non-toxic body care and wellness products. Through Byote, Violet has built a reputation for quality, authenticity, and innovation within Nigeria’s growing beauty and wellness industry.

She is also the creator of The Tov Company, a premium hospitality and home goods brand that blends sustainability with refined design to inspire good living

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I am a proud wife, mother of two and public servant that hails from Nasarawa State, Nigeria. I am also a passionate content creator dedicated to spotlighting Nigerian skincare and perfume brands. In addition to sharing my own skin care journey through reviews and educational content, I am using my platform to reshape how people see African beauty by proving that world class quality exists right here at home. My mission is to rewrite the narrative surrounding beauty and skincare in Nigeria by highlighting homegrown brands and building trust in their craftsmanship. I want to bridge the gap between consumers and African beauty entrepreneurs and encourage the movement that celebrates authenticity and pride in who we are and what we create.