University of Westminster alumna and Honorary Doctorate Mo Abudu has opened EbonyLife Place - new home for Black and African film, food, art, fashion and culture, where Africa's stories, flavours and creativity come together under one roof.
Based near Nine Elms in south-west London, EbonyLife Place brings together world-class entertainment, dining, retail and events, all with a distinctly Nigerian flair. At the heart of the cultural centre is a 160-seat auditorium offering a year-round programme of films, with a focus on Nigerian Nollywood cinema and other movies exploring the Black experience. The venue will also host masterclasses, industry panels and live performances, showcasing both established and emerging talent.
Beyond its cinema space, the multi-storey venue features a bar, a lounge, a Nigerian restaurant, a boutique showcasing African and diaspora designers, and walls lined with African diaspora artwork.
Abudu is a Nigerian media mogul and was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Arts by the University of Westminster in 2018 for her services to broadcasting and enterprise in Nigeria. She is also a Westminster alumna, having completed a Master’s degree in Manpower Studies in 1993.
She is the Founder of EbonyLife Media - Nigeria’s premium media conglomerate comprising EbonyLife TV, EbonyLife Films, EbonyLife Studios, EbonyLife Place and EbonyLife Creative Academy. EbonyLife Media has a mission to create original and inspiring content that showcases a pioneering and progressive Africa. While under Abudu’s leadership, EbonyLife Media have worked with several international studios, including Sony, Netflix, BBC Studios and Lionsgate.
Photo credit: Felix Crown
Abudu said: “Opening EbonyLife Place London is a hugely proud moment for me, particularly as a University of Westminster alumna. It is much more than a cinema; it is a cultural destination celebrating Black excellence, creativity and achievement from across the world.
“While proudly showcasing Black stories and culture, EbonyLife Place London is a space for everyone. Our doors are open to people of all backgrounds to come together, discover, connect and enjoy the richness of our shared cultural experiences.”
The new cinema and cultural hub directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 10: Reduced Inequalities. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Find out more about alumni and supporters of the University of Westminster.
Photo credit: Ashley Read
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