Encomium
– Platinum Entertainment boss, YINKA EDU
Olayinka Edu is the brain behind the new music reality show, the Lady of Songs (LOS). In this interview with ENCOMIUM Weekly, the MD/CEO of Platinum Entertainment Nigeria Limited (producers of LOS) shared with us what inspired her to come up with the women empowerment project.
The University of Lagos graduate of Creative Arts and founder of Women in Distress Association (WIDA) also dissected the forthcoming show, explaining what it takes to be part of it.
You’ve been into events for a while now, how did you really start your career in this sector?
I started from school, University of Lagos (UNILAG); even back in secondary school. I would say it has always been part of me.
So, how has it been?
It’s been fun. When you have passion for something, it comes naturally and could really be exciting. It has been very rough, but by God’s grace, we’ve been marching on.
Why are you concerned with events and gender- equality issues?
It is because I was a victim of molestation (abuse). I know the pains and how it feels especially when there’s really no one to open up to. I know how bad it could mess one up. I am just creating a platform to encourage young ladies. No matter what, life goes on. Get off whatever might have happened and take opportunities. Be encouraged and inspire others with your life.
What really happened to your pet project, Women in Distress Association (WIDA)?
WIDA is doing well. It’s an NGO which I can’t run alone. I need like minds to take it to the next level.
Would you say you’ve created adequate awareness to address this challenge?
We are still creating awareness. Creating awareness for this kind of project shouldn’t be limited.
How is it funded?
I have been funding it. God has been my strength.
It was even rumoured you had to sell off your car to fund your not- for- profit projects?
When you have a dream bigger than you and very passionate about it, you wouldn’t mind. One could go any length to achieve it. Because at the end of the day, the dream isn’t about you alone but impacting millions. I am passionate about what I do. I have a new ride now, though. (Smiles).
Let’s talk about your latest reality show, Lady of Songs (LOS). What is it all about?
Lady of songs is to promote gender equality and women empowerment through music and entertainment. It is more than a reality show, it is different and unique. LOS is powered by my company, Platinum Entertainment Nigeria Limited. I also use this opportunity to call on interested sponsors to contact us on www.platinument.com.ng or [email protected].
When is LOS commencing?
LOS is on. Entry will be announced soon.
How can one participate?
To participate, you must be a female, 18 to 35, know how to sing, have vision because LOS is more than music. All our chosen contestants should be ready for a transformation, empowerment, fun and great show.
What are the prizes to be won?
LOS winner would get a brand- new car, a year recording deal and 3M cash prize. But everyone is a winner. No matter who gets evicted at any stage, everyone leaves as winners. This is so because the show isn’t just concerned with having a winner who goes home with the grand prize at the end of the day alone. It is also all about building on other potentials discovered in each contestant to serve as an empowerment avenue for her.
We learnt the reality show will also celebrate Nigerian women in music?
Yes. In order to further solidify the essence of this special show, each edition will highlight and celebrate a female musical icon. The maiden edition is dedicated to the late Lady of Songs, Christy Essien Igbokwe (MFR) for her immense contributions to the Nigerian music industry.
Are you working on any other event?
LOS is not my only on-going project. There’s is also Belle of African Nation’s beauty pageant. It’s a pan- African pageant in progress.
Can you please tell us more about you, your parents, siblings and where you hail from?
I am from Edu family of Epe, Lagos State. Dad is late but my mom is still alive. I have siblings and we are good. Like I said, I’m a Lagosian. I attended Mate Nursery and Primary School, Government College, Ketu, Epe, Epe Grammer School and the University of Lagos, Akoka, all in our beautiful Lagos.
– UCHE OLEHI
