Big Brother Africa presenter IK Osakioduwa and StarGist leading lady Vimbai Mutinhiri will host the first ever AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCAs), which take place in Lagos, Nigeria on 9 March. AMVCA is held in association with MultiChoice and sponsored by Amstel Malta.
According to M-Net Africa MD Biola Alabi, the two hosts were chosen because of their experience and passion for the African entertainment scene, which makes them unique ambassadors for the event.
“They are capable of successfully engaging with television viewers in 47 African countries and invited guests at the EKO Exhibition Centre, where the AMVCAs will be held,’ says Alabi. “IK’s cool, calm professionalism combined with his effortless charm is clearly a benefit during busy live broadcasts. The always optimistic and stylish Vimbai’s enthusiasm for lifestyle programming makes her the ideal co-host for what we are confident will be a glittering, glamourous night for African stars, industry insiders and audiences watching at home.’
Speaking about her role at the AMVCAs, Mutinhiri says that she is honoured and excited to be part of the biggest initiative in the African film and television industry. “I feel there is no better way to pay homage to the outstanding stars we have on this continent than to be a part of the grand occasion to honour each one of them. I am sincerely humbled.’
Zimbabwean Mutinhiri, who first shot to fame as a housemate on Big Brother Amplified and is now a co-host of hot celeb and showbiz programme, StarGist, comments: “I am expecting to see and hear Africa’s finest putting their best foot forward on 9 March. The AMVCAs promises to be a night of glamour and excitement, so I can’t wait to see the finest couture on the continent. I’m also looking forward to some hot entertainment. It’s going to be bigger and better than anything we’ve ever seen or experienced.’
She explains that she loves African film and television because it is something she can effortlessly relate to. “It tells my story; it talks about my challenges and experiences. It motivates me, educates me and inspires me. What I love most about it is that it’s real. We very rarely sugar coat issues in African film and TV, and that authenticity is so appealing to me.”
Meanwhile, popular Nigerian personality IK is equally proud and pleased with his AMVCArole as well. “It’s a really big deal when you think about it. It’s the first time AfricaMagic is doing anything like this. This is going to grow really big in the years to come so to be selected to be a part of the inaugural event is just amazing.”
In addition to the red carpet fashion and a big turnout of topAfrican stars, IK is particularly looking forward to which winner will have the most interesting speech. He also says that he’s really excited about the nominees because of the fresh talent that’s starting to emerge.
“There are quite a few names there that are not as widely known as others. A closer look at these relatively ‘new’ players will reveal the maturity and finesse of their craft. That’s why it’s important to appreciate what they do. Of course I’m also excited about the nominated veterans who never fail to deliver great quality in their movies. We could never celebrate them enough!’
Audiences can get more information on the nominees by visiting www.africamagic.tv. Fans can also cast their votes on the website for their favourite nominees in the six, viewer-voted, categories.
The AfricaMagic Viewers’ Choice Awards will be screened live to DStv audiences on Saturday, 9 March at 20h00 CAT on AfricaMagic, AfricaMagic Entertainment and AfricaMagic World as well as AfricaMagic Movies and Movies 1.
