MAHNA AL-OTAIBI: INSPIRING THE YOUTH THROUGH DIGITAL MEDIA

BY CHINEDU NSOFOR

Sahara Weekly Reports That Mahna Mohammed Al-Otaibi, born on July 8, 1987, in the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, has carved out a significant space for himself in the country’s media landscape. Known for his engaging and dynamic presence on social media, especially Snapchat, Mahna has become a prominent figure among Saudi youth, using his platform to connect, inspire, and inform.

Mahna’s journey started in Mecca, where he completed his education and earned a bachelor’s degree from Umm Al-Qura University. His academic background and deep-rooted connection to his hometown have played an integral role in shaping the themes and content he creates. His ability to blend traditional Saudi values with modern digital storytelling has struck a chord with many, particularly the younger generation.

His influence on social media is evident through his large and loyal following, with thousands of people tuning in daily to his Snapchat stories. What sets Mahna apart from others is his versatility. He covers a wide range of topics, from educational content and lifestyle tips to cultural insights and entertainment. His content is designed to provide value and engage viewers in meaningful discussions, a key reason behind his growing popularity.

Despite his digital fame, Mahna maintains a humble and down-to-earth persona, focusing on authenticity and relatability. He often shares moments from his everyday life, blending them with informative and uplifting messages that resonate with his audience. This approach has positioned him as a role model for many young Saudis who see him as a bridge between tradition and modernity.

As Mahna Al-Otaibi’s influence continues to grow, he has become more than just a social media personality. He is a voice for the youth, encouraging them to embrace both their heritage and the opportunities that modern media offers. In a rapidly changing digital era, Mahna stands as an example of how individuals can use their platforms to create positive and impactful content.

From Gbaramatu to South Africa: Ijaw filmmaker Creekboi Bags 2024 Outstanding Nigerian in Creative Arts Award

Sahara Weekly Reports That The Popular Nigerian content creator and filmmaker Michael David Akpeyin, better known as Creekboi, has won the prestigious “Outstanding Nigerian in Creative Arts” award at the 5th Nigeria Community Excellence Awards (NCE Awards) in South Africa. The accolade marks a significant achievement for Creekboi, an Ijaw boy who has made his mark internationally through his compelling storytelling and impactful content, highlighting the richness of the Niger Delta and beyond.

Creekboi announced on his official Facebook page, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the honor. Reflecting on his journey, he shared the challenges of growing up in the creeks of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State, where opportunities were scarce, and the fight for crude oil defined life in the community. He explained that his determination to carve out a different path drove him to pursue his passion for the creative arts, to inspire young Ijaw people to dream beyond the limitations set by their environment.

“From the Creeks to the World,” Creekboi wrote, “Growing up in the creeks of Gbaramatu Kingdom, I always knew I wanted more. I wanted to pave a new path for every Ijaw child, showing there is more to achieve beyond the crude oil everyone fights for. I stood my ground, fueled by dreams of making my community proud, despite scarce support.”

He went on to thank his supporters for their relentless encouragement, noting how their likes, shares, and positive feedback played a crucial role in his success. “Thank you to all my supporters—those who shared my videos, liked, commented, and believed in me. Your unwavering support has been beyond this world. You are the true MVPs,” he said, acknowledging their role in his rise to prominence.

Creekboi also expressed appreciation to the NCE Awards organizers for recognizing his contributions to the creative industry. “To the organizers of this incredible event, thank you for recognizing me today. Your acknowledgment has blown my mind,” he added, describing the win as a moment that validates his efforts and inspires him to continue pushing boundaries.

The filmmaker’s journey began with humble beginnings, slowly gaining traction through social media, where his content connected with thousands. “It all started with one like, then 2, then 10k,” Creekboi recalled. His work has not only entertained but has also shone a spotlight on the culture and struggles of his people, making a case for the creative arts as a powerful tool for change.

The NCE Awards annually recognize Nigerians excelling in various fields, and Creekboi’s win serves as proof of his impact in the realm of creative arts and the broader Nigerian diaspora. His story of perseverance and passion continues to inspire many, proving that with resilience, it is indeed possible to go from “the creeks to the world.”

Nollywood’s Queen Lateefah Hits N216 Million in Nigerian Cinemas

Sahara Weekly Reports That Nollywood’s latest box office hit, Queen Lateefah, has achieved a significant milestone, raking in an impressive N216 million in ticket sales across cinemas nationwide. The film, produced by renowned Nollywood actress Wunmi Toriola, has remained the top-grossing movie in Nigerian cinemas for three consecutive weeks since its release on September 27, 2024.

Wunmi Toriola

According to data from the Nigerian Box Office, Queen Lateefah earned N41.5 million in revenue over the weekend of October 11-13, 2024, further cementing its status as a cinematic success. The film had already grossed N150 million within just 12 days of its release, a testament to its widespread appeal among Nigerian audiences.

Queen Lateefah opened to impressive figures, amassing N58 million in its debut weekend alone. This early success set the tone for the film’s continued strong performance, showcasing the growing sophistication of Nigeria’s film industry and the increasing appetite for high-quality local productions.

The film’s gripping narrative follows Lateefah Adeleke, a 30-year-old businesswoman with aspirations of social mobility. However, her carefully crafted image of success begins to unravel when she crosses paths with Jide Rhodes, a 35-year-old businessman, who exposes the gap between her self-curated facade and her true reality. Raised in poverty by her illiterate mother and residing in a dilapidated building, Lateefah projects herself as a globe-trotting, successful professional. This tension between appearance and reality drives the film’s storyline, creating layers of conflict and intrigue.

One of the key factors contributing to the film’s success is its stellar cast. Queen Lateefah features some of Nollywood’s finest talents, including Kunle Remi, Femi Adebayo, Nancy Isime, and two-time Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award winner, Broda Shaggi. The combination of a strong ensemble cast and an engaging plot has resonated with audiences, leading to sold-out showings across the country.

With Queen Lateefah continuing to dominate the box office, the film is on track to surpass other Nollywood blockbusters like Ajakaju: Beast of Two Worlds, which grossed N250 million, and Lakatabu, which garnered over N200 million. The Nigerian box office is expected to remain strong in the final quarter of the year, with several highly anticipated films slated for release.

Among the upcoming titles generating buzz is 3 Working Days, starring Deyemi Okanlawon and directed by Jerry Ossai, set to premiere on October 18, 2024. Also debuting on the same day is The Uprising: Wives on Strike 3, the third installment of the popular trilogy directed by Omoni Oboli, which will be available in IMAX format at select theaters.

As the year draws to a close, the continued success of Queen Lateefah and the release of other major Nollywood productions signal a strong finish for the Nigerian film industry in 2024.