Mo Abudu, CEO of EbonyLife Media, has joined the Board of Directors of the International Academy of Television, Arts, and Sciences. Some recent additions include Ferdinand Adimefe, CEO of Magic Carpet Labs; filmmaker, renowned actor and Managing Director of Euphoria360 Media, Femi Adebayo; Leonard Amanya, from the Uganda Communications Commission; Emem Ema, CEO of Vzhun Films; and Bradley Joshua, CEO of Gambit Films, South Africa.

The new inclusions from Africa form part of the Emmy Academy’s March 2024 Newly Elected Members from 25 countries worldwide. It comes amidst a wave of excitement within the entertainment industry, as Africa’s influence continues to gain recognition on the global stage. 

Abudu’s work has consistently highlighted African stories and voices, contributing to a rich legacy of impactful collaborations. She was formerly the CEO of Inspire Africa and Head Of Human Resources at ExxonMobil.

Her media production company: EbonyLife Films, EbonyLife Studios, EbonyLife Creative Academy, and EbonyLife Place, is responsible for some of the most critically acclaimed Nollywood films and TV series, including Blood Sisters, Netflix’s first Nigerian Original series, Òlòturé, Elesin Oba: The King’s Horseman, which premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival. Mo Abudu is set to commence production on a co-written project with Idris Elba dubbed Dust to Dreams.  Elba will also be directing this project, with the acclaimed singer Seal taking on the lead role. The media mogul, Mo Abudu, was named 2024 Forbes Africa’s Businesswoman of the Year. 

“I am deeply moved and incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support I’ve received following my appointment to the Board of Directors of the International Emmys,” Mo Abudu expressed as regards her appointment.

“It’s truly a humbling honor to join this esteemed board alongside distinguished members of the global TV and Film industry. As I step into this new role, I am filled with enthusiasm to use this platform to uplift Africa’s burgeoning creative economy in every way possible.”

In 1969, the International Academy of Television, Arts & Sciences (IATAS) was founded. This non-profit group brings together top professionals from all areas of television, across more than 60 countries around the world. Its goal is to recognize the very best TV shows being made internationally.

Held annually in New York City, the International Emmys honor exceptional achievements in global television across 16 categories. The ceremony attracts over a thousand international executives from broadcasting, production, and distribution.