Mental Health Support For The TV Presenter.

As a fellow red carpet host, I’ve experienced firsthand the pressures and stresses that come with the job. The constant scrutiny, demanding schedule, and high expectations can take a toll on our mental health.
That’s why I’m excited to announce the launch of a new mental health care program and group specifically designed for red carpet hosts and presenters.
But I don’t want to stop there. I believe it’s essential that we, as a community, advocate for mental health care, empathy, and respect for presenters and red carpet hosts. We need to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a more supportive and inclusive industry.
Stop the Unnecessary Criticism
One of the most significant challenges we face as presenters is the constant criticism and downplay of our talents. We’re often reduced to being “just a pretty face” or “only a presenter.” But the truth is, being a successful presenter takes a tremendous amount of skill, hard work, and dedication. It’s time to stop the unnecessary criticism and recognize the value and talent that presenters bring to the table. We’re not just reading from a script; we’re storytellers, communicators, and connectors. We have the power to make or break an event, and our skills and expertise should be respected and appreciated.
Respect Our Talents As presenters
We deserve respect for our talents and skills. We spend countless hours researching, preparing, and rehearsing to deliver exceptional performances. We work tirelessly to engage audiences, build connections, and create memorable experiences. It’s time to recognize the value of our work and stop downplaying our talents. We’re not “just” presenters; we’re professionals who deserve respect, admiration, and fair compensation for our work.
Underpayment and Criticism
But it’s not just the criticism and lack of respect that’s the problem. Many presenters, including myself, have experienced underpayment for our services. We’re often expected to work long hours, travel extensively, and deliver high-quality performances without fair compensation. And to make matters worse, we’re often criticized for being “underperforming” or “not delivering” when, in reality, we’re doing our best with the resources and compensation we’re given. It’s a vicious cycle that can lead to burnout, anxiety, and depression.
Advocating for Fair Compensation and Respect
As celebrities and public figures, we have a unique platform to raise awareness and advocate for fair compensation and respect for presenters and red carpet hosts. I urge all celebrities to join me in speaking out about the importance of fair pay, respect, and empathy for presenters and red carpet hosts.
We can use our platforms to:
1. Share our own experiences: Openly discuss our own struggles with underpayment, criticism, and lack of respect.
2. Raise awareness: Share information and resources about the importance of fair compensation and respect for presenters and red carpet hosts.
3. Support initiatives that promote fair pay and respect: Partner with organizations and initiatives that advocate for fair compensation and respect for presenters and red carpet hosts.
Empathy from the Public
I also urge the public to consider the challenges that presenters and red carpet hosts face. We’re not just smiling faces on the red carpet; we’re human beings with feelings, emotions, and struggles. The public can show empathy and support by:
1. Being kind and respectful: Treat us with kindness and respect, both in person and online.
2. Avoiding criticism and judgment: Refrain from criticizing or judging us, especially when we’re doing our best under intense pressure.
3. Supporting initiatives that promote fair pay and respect: Donate to or support organizations that advocate for fair compensation and respect for presenters and red carpet hosts.
Together, We Can Make a Difference By advocating for fair compensation, respect, and empathy.
We can create a more supportive and inclusive industry. I invite my fellow celebrities, the public, and anyone who cares about mental health to join me in this effort. Together, we can break down the stigma surrounding mental health, promote empathy and understanding, and create a more compassionate and supportive community for presenters and red carpet hosts.

The Unsettling Truth About Nigerian Celebrities at Events: A TV Presenter’s Rant

As a TV presenter, I’ve had the “privilege” of attending numerous events, concerts, and award shows featuring Nigerian celebrities. I have also had to interview many on the red carpet at these events. And let me tell you, it’s been a wild ride.

I’ve noticed a disturbing trend that has left me feeling frustrated and disappointed. The negative attitudes and habits of some Nigerian celebrities at events are not only unprofessional but also disrespectful to their fans. One of the most glaring issues is the chronic lateness of headliners. It’s not uncommon for concerts to start hours behind schedule, leaving fans restless and frustrated. I mean, what’s the point of having a red carpet if you’re going to stroll in 8 hours late?

But what’s even more infuriating is when these late-arriving performers proceed to ask the audience to sing their songs for them. It’s like they’re expecting the fans to do their job for them. Newsflash: if you’re the headliner, it’s your responsibility to deliver a memorable performance, not to get the audience to do your bidding. I don’t want to talk about how sloppy some of the performances end up being…from poorly choreographed dancers, to inappropriate props, to poor audio, to bad stage lighting, to an uncoordinated half-baked performance set…the list is endless!

And then there’s the annoying trend of performers asking the audience to put on their phone’s torchlight and wave. I get it, it’s a nice way to create a festive atmosphere, but let’s be real, it’s also a stark reminder of the lack of stable electricity in Nigeria. It’s like, “Hey, guys, let’s all use our phone lights to pretend we have electricity!” Please, I didn’t buy this phone for you and I. What do you still want from fans even after buying the pricey tickets from organizers because your performance fee is unrealistically too high?!

But the problems don’t end when the concert finally comes to a close. Fans are often left stranded, struggling to find transportation home because it’s too late to get a vehicle. And to make matters worse, street gates are often locked, leaving fans to navigate the dark streets in search of a way home. It’s like, “Thanks for coming, guys! Now, good luck getting home…or not.”

And let’s not forget the Sunday concerts that leave fans scrambling to get to work on Monday morning. It’s like these performers and event organizers have no regard for the fact that many of their fans have to wake up early the next day to go to work or school. How will fans pay for these outrageously pricy concerts if they’re fired from work? Lol.

What’s even more disturbing is the growing trend of celebrities treating their fans with utter disrespect. I’ve seen cases where fans’ phones are thrown away by celebrities, simply because they were trying to take a selfie. I’ve witnessed security aides shoving fans roughly, just for trying to get a glimpse of their favorite star. And, in some cases, the celebrities themselves have slapped or hit fans on stage. Yes, you read that right! It’s like they think they’re above the law, and that their fans are nothing more than mere mortals who should be grateful for their presence.

I recall the infamous incident where a popular Nigerian musician slapped a fan on stage for trying to take a selfie with him. The musician claimed that the fan was “disrespecting” him, but I think it’s safe to say that the only one who was disrespecting anyone was the musician himself. I mean, if you can’t handle a selfie, how are you going to handle the pressures of fame?

And then there was the case where a celebrity’s security aide was caught on camera shoving a fan roughly, just for trying to get a glimpse of the star. The fan was left bruised and shaken, but the celebrity didn’t even bother to apologize. I guess that’s what they mean by “VIP treatment.”

I’ve had the opportunity to interact with many of these celebrities, and I can tell you that some of them are genuinely passionate about their craft and appreciate their fans. However, there are others who seem to take their fans for granted, showing up late, delivering subpar performances, and disrespecting the very people who have made them stars.

It’s time for Nigerian celebrities to take responsibility for their actions and start treating their fans with the respect and appreciation they deserve. It’s time for them to realize that their fans are not just mere spectators, but people who have invested their time, money, and emotions into their music, movies, and other creative endeavors.

I’ll continue to call out these celebrities when they fail to meet the standards of professionalism and respect that their fans deserve. It’s time for a change, and I hope that by speaking out, I can help bring about a more positive and respectful attitude from Nigerian celebrities towards their fans. After all, as the saying goes, “with great power comes great responsibility.” And if Nigerian celebrities can’t handle the responsibility that comes with their fame, then maybe they shouldn’t be famous in the first place.

My Life on the Red Carpet: What It’s Really Like to be a TV Presenter in Lagos

Hmm, I still remember my first time on the red carpet like it was yesterday. The lights, the cameras, the glamour – it was all so overwhelming, but in the best possible way.
Ermandha, TV Presenter
As a TV presenter, I’ve had the privilege of covering some of the biggest events in Lagos, from the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) at the Eko Hotel and Suites to The Headies Awards at the same venue.
For starters, it’s not all glamour and fun. Before the cameras start rolling, I spend hours researching the celebrities I’ll be interviewing, preparing thoughtful questions, and rehearsing my lines until I feel confident. And even with all that prep, things don’t always go as planned. I recall one time at the Lagos Fashion Week at the Federal Palace Hotel, when a celebrity’s publicist suddenly changed the rules, and I had to think on my feet to come up with new questions on the spot. But the thrill of being live with fellow presenters in an electrifying atmosphere is what keeps me coming back for more. You never know what to expect but expect drama, glamour and the excitement seeping through designer perfumes, make-up and luxurious ballroom gowns or tuxedos. There’s something exhilarating about knowing that millions of people are watching you, and that you have the magic wand that every celebrity wants to wield.
Ermandha at Fashions Finest Africa
I’ve had the privilege of interviewing some of the biggest names in the industry, from Joeboy at The Headies Awards to Osas Ighodaro at the Silverbird Man Of The Year.
I’ve also had the privilege of being the official red carpet host for countless brands…Social Media Awards, Miss Enterprise Africa, The Humour Awards , Andre Vibez Sonicroom Launch, Genius Radio TV Launch and the list goes on. From hosting The Humour Awards Academy red carpet twice to becoming its present head of media! Phew!

Ermandha interviewing Dakore Egbuson-Akande at REEL LOVE movie premiere.
Lagos, with its unique energy and vibrant cultural scene, adds an extra layer of excitement to my job. From the colorful traditional attire to the bold fashion statements, the city’s style scene is a constant source of inspiration. Fashion Weeks are my favorite event scene. I love fashion weekends!
Comedy events are a staple and I rarely venture into the main hall except it’s a comedian I really find funny.
Ermandha and Andre Vibez
And the people – oh, the people! From Nollywood stars to music sensations, Lagos is home to some of the most talented and fascinating individuals I’ve ever met. As a TV presenter, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and interviewing some of these talented individuals, and I’ve learned that there’s more to them than just their public personas. I’ve also been personally included by these renowned celebrities in some of their projects. I have been featured in movies, music videos and more. I’ve seen the hard work and dedication that goes into making it in the entertainment industry, and I’ve developed a deep respect for the people who make it happen.
Ermandha and Di’ja
So, if you’re thinking of becoming a TV presenter, here’s my advice: be prepared to work hard, think on your feet, and be willing to take risks. And most importantly, be passionate about what you do. Because when you’re doing something you love, the long hours and tough moments don’t seem so bad after all.