My Experience Applying For Global Talent Endorsement Stage 1 UK Visa

by with No Comment Entertaiment

As a TV presenter working diligently in Nigeria, the allure of the UK’s Global Talent endorsement, particularly through Arts Council England, via the Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT) pathway, initially felt like a beacon of opportunity. The promise of recognizing exceptional talent from across the globe resonated deeply. However, my experience navigating this system has left me with a profound sense of disappointment and a conviction that the current criteria inadvertently erects barriers, especially for creatives from regions like Africa. My application hinged on demonstrating exceptional talent and international recognition in my field. Yet, the cornerstone of PACT’s endorsement appears to be a list of “notable awards” – a list that, upon closer inspection, feels distinctly Eurocentric.

As a presenter in Nigeria, the landscape of awards is vastly different. While there are accolades within the Nigerian and African media space, they often don’t carry the same perceived weight or recognition as the BAFTAs or Emmys that dominate the “notable awards” list. This immediately presents an almost insurmountable hurdle. It’s not a reflection of a lack of talent or impact. I, along with many of my peers, have dedicated years to honing our craft, connecting with audiences, and contributing meaningfully to the vibrant Nigerian television industry. We have built careers in a challenging environment, often with fewer resources and infrastructure compared to our counterparts in Europe or North America. To suggest that our achievements are somehow less significant because they haven’t been validated by a specific set of Western awards feels inherently unfair. The stated international policy of the UK government, with its purported focus on Africa, rings hollow when confronted with the practicalities of these endorsement criteria. If the intention is truly to attract global talent, the benchmarks for recognition need to be more inclusive and reflective of the diverse ecosystems within which creatives operate. It seems the current system inadvertently favors those already within established Western structures, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion.

The concessions for “art” are appreciated, but they fail to acknowledge the exceptional talent and significant contributions of individuals in other creative fields, such as television presenting. Many of us in these roles have taken considerable risks, often covering sensitive and challenging events. We have sacrificed personal time, stayed up late at night facing frightening encounters, been overlooked and harassed because of gender, contributed to the success of productions/events and faced skepticism simply for pursuing careers that are not always considered conventional or “white-collar.” The dedication and resilience required to excel in such environments should, in themselves, be considered a testament to our talent and commitment.The psychological impact of this process cannot be understated. To feel that your hard work and dedication are deemed insufficient simply because they haven’t been validated by a specific, often inaccessible, set of awards is disheartening. It breeds a sense of being perpetually on the outside, regardless of the quality or impact of your work. It feels as though the system is deliberately designed to filter out talent from certain regions, not based on merit, but on the geography of recognition.

The emphasis on winning BAFTAs or Emmys, for instance, highlights the narrow scope of the criteria. These are highly competitive awards even for established actors and filmmakers within their own systems. We’ve witnessed numerous instances where deserving individuals, even within those industries, have been overlooked. The recent revelations about the Oscars’ voting process, where reviewers reportedly didn’t fully engage with the films they were evaluating, further underscores the fallibility and inherent biases that can exist within even the most prestigious award systems. To hinge an entire immigration pathway on such potentially flawed metrics feels deeply problematic.

Therefore, with a heavy heart and based on my own experience, I would advise Nigerian creatives within the film and television sector to seriously reconsider applying for the Global Talent endorsement via the PACT route under the current criteria. Unless you have already navigated the complex and often politically charged landscape of international awards and secured recognition from the specific institutions listed, it is highly likely that your application will be unsuccessful. The only two recognized awards are AMVCA and AMAA. AMVCA is basically an Africa Magic | DSTV initiative. How can people not on or affiliated to this network be awarded? How can a TV Presenter be awarded when there are no notable awards for presenters? These awards a basically for actors or producers signed up to their networks. This process can be financially and emotionally draining, leading to a significant waste of resources and dashed hopes.While the aspiration to attract global talent is commendable, the current policies, particularly the reliance on a narrow list of “notable awards,” do not reflect a genuine commitment to inclusivity. Instead, they act as gatekeepers, inadvertently excluding a wealth of talent from diverse backgrounds. A more equitable system would acknowledge the multifaceted nature of creative excellence and consider a broader range of achievements and contributions within different cultural contexts. Until such a shift occurs, the Global Talent endorsement, in its current form, remains a distant and often unattainable dream for many talented creatives in Nigeria and across Africa.

Beyond my primary role as a TV presenter, I am also an actor, deeply immersed in the vibrant Nigerian film and television industry. My commitment to the creative arts extends beyond my own on-screen work. Through my platform, Rara Avis Entertainment, I actively champion and showcase the burgeoning talent within Nigeria. We’ve organized showcases providing vital platforms for debutant creatives and emerging artists, singers, actors, models, fashion designers, writers, comedians and filmmakers to connect with industry professionals and gain visibility. We also have partnered with service providers to help reduce production costs for creatives. In fact, we recently launched the Rara Avis Debut Award (RADA), a platform dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of newcomers in the Nigerian creative scene. This initiative was born out of a desire to foster growth and provide much-needed validation within our own ecosystem.Furthermore, our dedication to fostering international collaboration led to a partnership with the British Council in Lagos. Together, we curated a showcase aimed at bridging the gap, facilitating cultural exchange and exploring potential collaborations. This partnership, a testament to the quality and potential of the talent we work with, provided a platform for Nigerian artists to engage with and be seen.One of our talent has even made it to the finals of a top talent show. Look up Blinkz Baba on Naija Star Search. There’s also an interview on www.raraavisentertainment.com with Blinkz Baba where he shares the impact Rara Avis had on his emerging as a finalist on the Trace Naija endorsed show.

Yet, despite this active engagement in the creative sector, my own artistic endeavors as a presenter and actor, and my work in uplifting other creatives through Rara Avis Entertainment – including collaborations with esteemed institutions like the British Council – none of these seem to hold sufficient weight within the Global Talent endorsement framework. The recurring stumbling block remains the “notable awards” list. The feedback, implicitly or explicitly, is that these achievements, these collaborations, these initiatives within my own context, do not equate to the specific accolades deemed worthy by PACT. I have film credits on IMDb for an internationally distributed movie on Prime Video UK, yet it doesn’t seem to count. I have proof of posters with my pictures as official Red Carpet Host for many organizations and videos showing my appearance. I have letters from respectable and verified individuals/Institutions attesting to my contributions yet it holds no weight.

It’s a frustrating paradox. We are encouraged to engage internationally, to collaborate, to build our own vibrant industries, yet the very recognition we cultivate within our own spheres, even when acknowledged by international bodies within our own country, is seemingly dismissed as insufficient. It reinforces the feeling that true validation can only come from a select group of Western institutions, regardless of the quality, impact, or cultural significance of the work produced elsewhere. It’s as if the system operates under the assumption that excellence can only be judged through a specific, pre-determined lens, failing to acknowledge the diverse and rich tapestry of global creative achievement. The collaboration with the British Council, an organization dedicated to cultural exchange, should arguably signify a level of international standing, but alas, without the prerequisite award from the “notable” list, it appears to fall short. This further solidifies the disheartening reality that the current criteria, despite any stated intentions of global inclusivity, inadvertently erects formidable barriers for talented individuals from regions like Nigeria.

The emotional and psychological effect cannot be undermined as it can lead to depression and to the dearth of the emergence of talented individuals who chosen to pursue a creative career. This is not about money or application fees but about how society already looks down on creative careers and how a body which ought to understand the complexity of this terrain and provide validation for the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a creative career, has a process that does not effectively handle cases of multidisciplinary individuals like me.

I am resolutely committed to helping debutants and emerging creatives, especially those from Nigeria, navigate this industry and advance their careers. I am going to continue to use my skills and network to help creatives. It is because of this commitment that I chose to relocate, searching for solutions through technology for challenges creatives face. We are gifted and nothing is going to take away from that. If these societies have systems that will not absorb us, we will create our own ecosystem, one where we will have no need for validation through processes that do not understand us. I remain undaunted because I know my capabilities, how else did I become Head of Media for a prestigious and remarkable organization like The Humour Awards Academy?

I am inspired by all the great Africans who have dared to tread their own path. Be you and the world will adjust. I have never confirmed to societal expectations and I am not about to change who I am or lobby anyone just for acceptance. I am proudly a woman daring to do the impossible from a background that discriminates and excludes us. All I ever wanted to do is make impact and contribute towards making the world a great place. I don’t chase clout and even while conducting interviews or embarking on any creative projects, I uplift creatives and do nothing to hamper or injure their creative processes.

As for the Global Talent Endorsement, I nevertheless requested a review because I am entitled to it. This is despite the hopelessness in the prognosis of the impossibility of the endorsement decision being overturned. I have nothing to lose.

“In Defense of My Dream Job: Why Being a TV Presenter is Totally Legit (Despite the Sacrifices)”

by with One Comment EntertaimentRed Carpet NewsTV Presenting

Hey there, fellow TV lovers! It’s your girl, Ermandha, and I am beyond thrilled to be writing this editorial about a topic that’s near and dear to my heart: defending the awesomeness of being a TV presenter!

I mean, let’s be real – how many times have I heard, “Oh, you’re just a TV presenter…that’s not a real job!” Um, excuse me? Not a real job? I’d like to see you try to charm an audience of millions, think on your feet, and make complex information sound sexy and engaging all at the same time!

As a TV presenter, my job is to inform, educate, and entertain. I’m a storyteller, a communicator, and a performer all rolled into one. I get to meet fascinating people, visit incredible places, and share my passion with the world. And, let me tell you, it’s not all glamour and glory – there are long hours, tight deadlines, and plenty of hard work that goes into making those 30 minutes of airtime look effortless.

But, here’s the thing: being a TV presenter comes with its fair share of sacrifices. My eating habits, for instance, have had to undergo a drastic transformation. Gone are the days of devouring spicy curries or pungent Nigerian delicacies – anything that could potentially cause bad breath or, heaven forbid, a stomach upset on live TV! My diet is now a strict regimen of bland, easily digestible foods (yawn!). And don’t even get me started on the coffee – a presenter’s best friend, but also a notorious culprit when it comes to stains and jitters!

And then, of course, there’s the schedule. Forget about having a social life or, you know, actual weekends. My days are filled with rehearsals, script readings, and endless meetings with producers and directors. I’ve lost count of the number of birthdays, weddings, and other important events I’ve had to miss because of work commitments. Yes! You know there are many entertainment industry centered events to cover in Lagos during the weekends. I won’t go into details sha. If you know you know.

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But perhaps the toughest sacrifice of all is having to rein in my opinions. As a presenter, I have to maintain a neutral, unbiased stance on pretty much everything. It’s hard not to get passionate about the topics I’m discussing, but I have to be careful not to alienate or offend any segment of my audience. It’s a delicate balancing act, but one that’s essential to maintaining my credibility and integrity as a presenter.

And let’s not forget the constant scrutiny! Every move I make, every word I utter, is under the microscope. One wrong step, one misplaced comment, and it’s all over social media. The pressure to be perfect is overwhelming at times, but it’s also what drives me to be the best presenter I can be.

But what people often don’t realize is that being a TV presenter requires a unique combination of psychological prowess, emotional intelligence, and people management skills. I have to be able to think on my feet, read people’s body language, and navigate complex social dynamics – all while maintaining a calm and composed exterior. It’s a bit like being a therapist, a diplomat, and a performer all rolled into one!

I need to have the emotional IQ to empathize with my guests, to understand their perspectives, and to create a safe and supportive environment for them to share their stories. I need to be able to manage my own emotions, too – to stay calm under pressure, to handle criticism and feedback, and to maintain a positive and professional attitude even in the face of adversity.

And then, of course, there’s the intelligence and wit required to research and write engaging scripts, to think critically and analytically, and to come up with creative solutions to complex problems. It’s a bit like being a journalist, a researcher, and a writer all rolled into one!

So, to all the naysayers out there, I say: being a TV presenter is absolutely, positively, without-a-doubt a real job! It’s a job that requires skill, talent, dedication, and a unique combination of psychological prowess, emotional intelligence, and people management skills.

In conclusion, I’m proud to be a TV presenter, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. It is also a great way to build connection with others in the industry. You may even get to share ideas or work on a project with renowned celebrities at a discount or for free sef. So, next time someone asks you what you do, and you say, “I’m a TV presenter,” hold your head high, smile proudly, and say, “Yeah, it’s a real job, and I’m rocking it – even with the boring food, lack of social life, and constant scrutiny!”

Mental Health Support For The TV Presenter.

by with No Comment Entertaiment
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

by with No Comment Entertaiment

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

by with No Comment Entertaiment
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.