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Connecting over 100 business owners and investors in the Hospitality and Service Industry across Africa.
Formal discussion on topics ranging from: The Importance of Business Planning in the Hospitality Industry to The Benefits of Investment in the Hospitality Industry.
We are thrilled to announce that the Maiden Edition Hospitality Business Summit will be a captivating two-day event that promises to be a highlight in the hospitality industry’s calendar. Hosted by Vertiline Synergy Limited, a leading hospitality consulting company, this summit will provide a unique platform for industry professionals, business leaders, and investors to come together and shape the future of the sector
The theme this year is MAKING HOSPITALITY GREAT AGAIN, with the goal of analyzing, discussing, and discovering the process of investment and business setup in the hospitality industry. Vertiline is proud to have such a diverse and inclusive audience attending this year’s hospitality summit.
The first day of the summit will kick off with a series of engaging business topics led by esteemed members of the public and private sectors. These insightful sessions will cover a wide range of subjects, including market trends, investment opportunities, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable practices. Attendees will gain valuable insights from panel discussions featuring industry experts, who will share their experiences, knowledge, and strategies for success.
The second day of the event will be a truly memorable occasion as we celebrate the industry’s achievements with a spectacular gala night. This fun-filled evening will be a culmination of networking, entertainment, and recognition. During the gala night, special recognition awards will be presented to outstanding hospitality businesses in Nigeria, honoring their contributions to the industry’s growth and excellence. It will be a night of glamour, celebration, and inspiration, as we acknowledge and applaud the remarkable accomplishments of these businesses.
The Maiden Edition Hospitality Business Summit promises to be an exceptional event that combines professional insights, networking opportunities, and a night of well-deserved recognition. By attending, you will have the chance to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable knowledge, forge partnerships, and celebrate the achievements of outstanding hospitality businesses in Nigeria.
The hospitality industry plays a crucial role in Africa’s economic growth, and Nigeria stands at
the forefront of this thriving sector. In recognition of the industry’s immense potential, we are
proud to present the Maiden Edition Hospitality Business Summit. This premier event is
designed to bring together 100 of the most influential business leaders and investors in the
hospitality industry, creating a platform for networking, collaboration, and innovation.
We invite investors, business owners, leaders, embassies and representatives in the hospitality industry.
During the summit, we will delve into key sectors that shape the hospitality industry in Africa and Nigeria. These sectors include:
Explore the latest trends in hotel management, operations, and customer experience. Discover strategies to enhance guest satisfaction and improve operational efficiency. i.e. hotels, resorts, motels, inns, short-lets, guest houses.
Delve into the world of culinary excellence, explore food and beverage innovations, and learn about restaurant management, menu development, and industry regulations. i.e. restaurants, bars, cafes, bistros.
Gain insights into travel trends, destination marketing, sustainable tourism practices, and the impact of technology on the tourism sector. i.e. travel agencies, tour companies.
Explore post Covid-19 trends in the recreational sector. i.e. spas, parks, gardens.
The summit offers a diverse range of sessions, panel discussions, and keynote speeches from industry experts. Gain valuable insights into the latest trends, strategies, and best practices in the hospitality sector. Stay updated on emerging technologies, consumer behavior, and market dynamics, equipping you with the knowledge needed to stay ahead of the competition.
The Hospitality Business Summit provides an exceptional opportunity to connect and engage with like-minded professionals in the industry. You'll have the chance to meet and build relationships with business leaders, investors, and experts who can potentially become valuable partners or collaborators.
The hospitality industry in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, is experiencing remarkable growth and attracting substantial investment. Attending the summit puts you in a prime position to explore potential investment opportunities, discover new projects, and connect with entrepreneurs seeking funding for their ventures
Whether you are an established hospitality business looking to expand your operations or a budding entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea, the summit provides a conducive environment for business expansion. Engage in discussions about market entry strategies, joint ventures, franchising, and other expansion opportunities, and explore ways to tap into new markets and enhance your brand's presence.
The Hospitality Business Summit fosters an atmosphere of collaboration, encouraging attendees to explore partnerships, synergies, and innovative solutions. Build alliances with complementary businesses, suppliers, and service providers, opening doors to mutually beneficial collaborations that can drive growth, efficiency, and profitability.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Keynote Address: Hospitality: A means of Revitalizing Urban Areas in Africa.
Topic: Opportunities for Hospitality Businesses in the mining sector.
Fmr. Chairman, Senate Committee on Aviation
Topic: The role of Aviation in boosting hospitality and tourism in Nigeria.
Fmr. Vice Chairman, senate committee on FCT
Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport.
Chief of staff, Ogun state
Topic: Hospitality Investment – An integral part of boosting low-income economies.
Topic: Hospitality and Telecommunications: The role of Telecommunications in the Hospitality Industry.
Topic: Hospitality and Taxation.
Topic: The role of Hospitality in Real Estate Development: Boosting Low-income Economies
Hospitality Investor
Founder, Carnival, Lagos
Global Kitchen, Sri Lanka
Horton Towers, Sri Lanka
Indian Summer, Sri Lanka
Pack-a-Pow, Sri Lanka
Chow Time, Dubai
India Summer, Dubai
Indian Summer, KSA
Summer Place, KSA
Seasons Restaurant, KSA.
Topic: Investing in the Hospitality Industry in Nigeria.
Topic: Business Planning and Structuring: The importance of establishing a business structure for accessing funding and investments.
Topic: Lifestyle and Hospitality- Building a successful business out of a hobby.
Topic: The crucial contribution of Women in the Growth and Development of the Hospitality Industry.
Founder, Tirta Ayu Spa
Topic: The crucial contribution of Women in the Growth and Development of the Hospitality Industry.
General Manager/Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency
Topic: Building an Eco-friendly Hospitality industry in Africa
Topic: Owning and Running a Hospitality Business in Nigeria – A Foreigner’s Perspective.
Topic: Owning and Running a Hospitality Business in Nigeria – A Nigerian’s Perspective.
Topic: Building an Eco-friendly Hospitality industry in Africa
Co-Founder/Executive Director, Ecoviridis Environmental Technology Limited
Executive President, Lagos Recyclers Association (LAGRA)
Topic: Building an Eco-friendly Hospitality industry in Africa
Hospitality Consultant
Managing Partner/COO Vertiline Synergy Limited
Topic: Business Planning and Structuring: Hospitality Operations (Back of House)
Topic: Lifestyle and Hospitality- Building a successful business out of a hobby.
Founder, Lafric Restaurant and Lounge
Topic: Owning and Running a Hospitality Business in Nigeria – A Nigerian’s Perspective.
Topic: Owning and Running a Hospitality Business in Nigeria – A Foreigner’s Perspective.
Topic: Owning and Running a Hospitality Business in Nigeria – A Foreigner’s Perspective.
With a wealth of experience and expertise in the industry, Vertiline Synergy Limited is dedicated to providing exceptional consulting services to businesses in the hospitality sector. As the host of this prestigious event, Vertiline Synergy Limited brings its deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the hospitality industry. Our team of seasoned with consultants is committed to helping businesses thrive and succeed in a highly competitive market. We offer comprehensive solutions that encompass strategic planning, operational definition efficiency, customer experience enhancement, and sustainable practices. At Vertiline Synergy Limited, we believe that collaboration and knowledge sharing are vital for the growth of the Hospitality industry. Through the Maiden Edition Hospitality Business Summit, we aim to foster an environment that promotes dialogue, innovation, and partnerships. We are passionate about driving the industry forward, and this summit serves as a testament to our commitment to the success of our clients and the overall development of the hospitality sector. By choosing Vertiline Synergy Limited as the host of the summit, attendees can expect a well organized event that brings together industry experts, thought leaders, and influential stakeholders. Our team's extensive network and industry connections ensure that the summit will provide a platform for meaningful engagement, empowering attendees with valuable insights, strategies, and opportunities.
Contact Us
+234 705 331 0977
Chief Executive Officer, Landmark Africa Group
Paul Onwuanibe is the Chief Executive Officer of The Landmark Africa Group. He began his career in the “built environment” with a formal education in Architecture, Property Development and Construction Management together with an MBA from the London Business School with a merit in “Value Engineering”. Paul has over 30 years of professional experience in design and execution of projects in Africa, North America, and Europe. He served as Development Director with Beacon Housing in the United Kingdom. Paul was the Executive responsible for the Property and Logistics team of Regus Plc during its rapid expansion years, which oversaw the opening of 190 business centers globally.
In 1998, Paul founded Landmark as a serviced office provider in London. With his expert knowledge of commercial property and workplace management, he led Landmark’s rapid expansion into North America, Europe, and Africa. In 2010, he acquired over 150,000sqm of land on the Atlantic coastline, pivoting Landmark from a serviced office operator to a mixed-used developer. Paul has since positioned
Landmark as the fastest growing business, leisure, and lifestyle destination on the West African Coastline. Under his leadership, Landmark has raised more than $100 million in development funding and has grown to a PWC endorsed enterprise valuation of more than $300 million. Paul is a well-regarded African business leader, with a deep and passionate interest in real estate in Africa. He is driven by the goal to create the first pan African real estate and service organization themed on his live, work and play philosophy.
Paul serves as the chairman or board member of several institutions in Europe, North America and Africa including MTN’s subsidiary ‘Fintech Yellow Digital’, Cancer Care Federation for West Africa, Lakeshore Medical Centre, Brookstone Properties, Kimberly Ryan, Carbon Micro Finance Bank, Stanmore Real Estate, and Spur Ranch Steak House in Nigeria. He has significant charitable interests in the health and education sector as he was the founder and past president of the international youth leadership group, Human Race Foundation (HRF), where he continues to serve as a mentor for its network of members which spans across 3 continents. Paul is a member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO) International and a Fellow of the Institute
of Credit Administration (ICA).
As an investor, Paul is known as one of five “fierce Lions” from the hit international business reality TV show, Lion’s Den, which gives a platform to budding entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas with the hopes of securing investments from a jury of seasoned business leaders. Lion’s Den is the Nigerian version of the widely acclaimed tv shows, Dragon’s Den and Shark Tank. He has served as the Head Juror of TotalEnergies Nigerian Startupper Challenge, an investment incubator and competition for young entrepreneurs.
Paul has been recognized locally and internationally for his contributions to the advancement of the real estate and the economic landscape in Africa. Amongst his many achievements, he has received Lifetime Achievement Awards from both the African Property Investment Awards in 2020 and the Real Estate Development Awards in 2018. He is also nominated for the Real Estate Man of the Year 2022 by the Real Estate Discussions and Awards and is recognized by Real Estate Unite as one of the 30 Most Influential People in the Real Estate Sector in Nigeria.
Paul is focused on adding value to the region through imaginative world-class mixed-use developments and the creation of job opportunities in several African cities. Landmark Africa Group has employed over 10,000 people across Africa.
Paul has been happily married for 29 years with two children and is an avid supporter of the Arsenal Football Club.
FEDERAL MINISTER, MINES AND STEEL DEVELOPMENT
Olamilekan Adegbite is the Nigerian minister of Mines and Steel Development. Adegbite was formerly the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Ogun State under the Ibikunle Amosun regime.
Arc. Olamilekan Adegbite has over 35 years experience in architecture and construction. He holds a Bachelor of Environmental Studies (B.E.S. Arch) and a Master of Environmental Design (M.E.D. Arch) from the School of Architecture, University of Lagos. He also earned a Master of Science in Construction Management (M.Sc. Constr. Mgt) from the same university.
His career started from Projectscope Nigeria Limited, a design and build company, where as a junior architect he was entrusted with the supervision of a two-storey building to house the operations of a bank. From there, he went on to join Modulor Group Architects, a consulting firm of architects and planners, where he was responsible for the design, planning, coordination, supervision and management of so many projects, the most notable being the 30-storey headquarter building for Union Bank Plc on the Marina, Lagos.
Olamilekan founded Lekan Adegbite Associates, a consulting firm where he was the Head; and Adkon Limited, a design and build company of which he was the Chief Executive Officer. He also served as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Ogun State from 2011 to 2019. While serving as the Ogun State Commissioner for Works & Infrastructure, he played a key role in the construction of roads, flyover bridges, and other infrastructural development projects in the State.
The professional competence he exhibited during the period of his service as a Commissioner in Ogun State contributed immensely to the rising profile of the State. Ogun State has now become an investment hub in Nigeria, owing to the massive infrastructural projects embarked upon across the nooks and crannies of the State.
Fmr. Vice Chairman, senate committee on FCT
Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport
Chief of Staff, Ogun state
Tolulope Odebiyi is a Nigerian politician from Ogun state, who was elected to the Ogun West senatorial seat in 2019. He previously served as the Chief of staff to Governor Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun state.
Odebiyi is a graduate of Government College, Ibadan. He earned a B.Sc. degree in Building Construction and Engineering Technology from Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston.
After his education, Chief Tolu Odebiyi’s working career spans several real estate development projects both in the United States and Nigeria. He was at a time responsible for the generation and brokerage of commercial and residential transactions in excess of $150million in the United States. He was responsible for closing several big ticket deals for firms with market leaders that included banks, oil and gas, and diversified conglomerates. Prior to his political appointment, he served as the managing director of Agbara Estates Limited. He sits on the board of Travant Real Estate, Stururacasa Nigeria Limited, Travfirst Nigeria Limited and others.
Odebiyi has a strong politically inclined background. His father, Jonathan Odebiyi, was the minority leader in the second Republic senate on the platform of the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria. He previously served as permanent secretary in the office of chief of staff, Ogun state Governor’s office in 2006 before being appointed chief of staff by the Governor Ibikunle Amosun’s administration.
He resigned his position as Chief of Staff in 2018 to run for senate representing Ogun West.In the 2019 Nigerian general elections, he contested the Ogun West senatorial seat under the All Progressive Congress party and won.
Senator Tolulope Akinremi Odebiyi was born on November 14, 1963 to Late Senator J.A.O. Odebiyi, Senate Leader of the Unity Party of Nigeria (1979 – 1983), and Chief (Mrs) Olukemi Odebiyi.
Education
Tolu Odebiyi attended the prestigious Government College, Ibadan, Oyo State in 1980. Lake Forest Academy, Illinois, United States of America in 1982 and obtained a High School Diploma. He graduated from Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, Massachusetts with a Bachelor of Science in Building Construction Technology in 1986.
Work
He has over 30 years of outstanding International and domestic real estate experience with core competences in the areas of Building Construction, Property Management Portfolio and Project Development Analysis. He served as Senior Manager, National Bank of Nigeria 2001 – 2004.
Member, Management Team Broll Nigeria 2005 – 2008.
Managing Partner, Travent Real Estate 2008 – 2012
In 2012, he was the Managing Director of Agbara Estates Limited, a development and Investment company. As the Managing Director of the company, the company’s assets exponentially increased to over 20 Billion Naira.
Politics and Appointments
Tolu served as:-
Member of the Transition Committee on Housing, Ogun State Government (2003).
Board Member, Judicial Service Commission, Ogun State (2012 – 2014).
Chief of Staff, Ogun State Government under His Excellency, Governor Ibikunle Amosun (2017).
He contested and won Ogun West Senatorial District election on All Progressives Congress (APC) platform in 2019.
Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Capital Territory. Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport. He serves as member in six other committees of the Senate.
He was appointed to represent Nigeria at the ECOWAS Parliament.
Tolu sponsored over 10 Bills of National Importance which included the first ever Bill to establish The National Institute for Border Studies in Nigeria. He has co-sponsored over 8 Bills and innumerable Motions.
Impact on the Society
Tolu’s impactful and qualitative representation, kind and humble disposition has won him international and domestic awards and garlands. His contribution to strengthening the Legislature in Nigeria through quality representation has also earned him respect from his colleagues and immense love from his constituents.
He is a fine example of reliability, dedication, commitment, and dependability. He has consistently proved himself as an inspiring motivator, intelligent leader, and role model to many.
Tolu has distinguished himself not only by his commitment to the society, but also his mentorship and passion for education.
In view of the passion he has for the less privileged and the most vulnerable members of the society, he launched the Tolu Odebiyi Foundation in 2019 with four primary areas of impact – Education, Health Care, Youth Welfare and Women/Widows Empowerment. Over 200 students of the Foundation have benefitted from the scholarship program with most getting employment in major multinational firms upon graduation.
He has consistently contributed in a distinct way to improving the lives of his constituents. He built, renovated, and furnished schools, he has empowered the youth, and initiated the coordination of trade associations, micro-credit schemes for Women in his community.
In appreciation of his selfless contributions to his community, he was conferred with the chieftaincy titles of Apesin of Ibeshe and Apena of Iboro respectively.
Tolu has distinguished himself not only by his commitment to the society, but also his mentorship and passion for education. He is a Patron of numerous church societies, charity organizations and Community Development Associations.
In recognition of his outstanding virtues and services to his community and Nigeria in general, he was conferred with the National Honour Award in the rank of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on 11th October, 2022.
Hobbies
He loves reading, traveling, swimming, and discussing matters of national interest. He is a firm believer of societal reform.
Marriage
Tolu is happily married to Folashade and they are blessed with brilliant children.
EXECUTIVE COMMISSIONER, NIGERIAN COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSIONS (NCC)
Mr. Adeleke Morounfolu Adewolu is the Executive Commissioner (Stakeholder Management) of the Nigerian Communications Commission.
A lawyer by profession, a seasoned administrator and project manager, Adeleke Adewolu has acquired extensive experience in legal practice, governance, reform and public administration. He is a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria (1986) and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England & Wales (1999).
Over a career spanning 30 years, Adeleke has served in numerous private and public institutions of repute in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He served as State Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter Governmental Affairs in Ogun State from 2015 – 2019. Prior to that he was Special Adviser (Research & Documentation) to the Governor of Ogun State (2011-2015), where he coordinated the Fast Track Recruitment of 10,000 workers during the first 100 days of Senator Ibikimle Amosun led administration. Between 2005 and· 2007, he worked as a Special Assistant on Legal and Legislative Matters to the Senate President in the National Assembly.
An experienced project manager and legal practitioner, with vast, hands-on knowledge of the implementation of Reform and Social Investment Programmes, Adeleke has direct experience managing multi-party stakeholders and high-level representation from the government, the private sector, multilateral agencies and international organizations including the Bureau of Information Communication Technology {ICT). He has served as liaison with the National Economic Council (NEC), Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), D.A.W.N Commission and the South West Governors Forum.
As Ogun State Commissioner for Special Duties, he managed the implementation and performance monitoring of the French Development Agency (AFD) funded Ogun Water Sector Reform project. In his capacity as the State Focal Person for the Federal Government of Nigeria’s Social Investment Programme (SIPs), he coordinated, mobilized resources and managed stakeholder relationships with partner institutions and engaged over 2000 women as Food Vendors under the Home Grown School Feeding Programme that provided a hot meal daily to over 200,000 primary school pupils. He also coordinated and monitored the placement of over 18,000 unemployed graduate youths under the Npower Graduate Employment programme.
A certified PRINCE2 Project Manager, Adeleke also served in several roles for 13 years, as Senior Caseworker, Business Information System Team Lead and IT System Releases Manager at the Legal Services Commission of the United Kingdom where he oversaw the maintenance of IT systems, related training and guidance material, user management, configuration management, risk identification management and data validation.
Adeleke attended Igbobi College, Lagos and Abeokuta Grammar School, Abeokuta. An alumnus of the University of I£e. (now Obafemi Awolowo University {1981- 1985), he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986 and began his legal practice in the Chambers of Prince Bola Ajibola S.A.N & Co. He undertook the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test for England & Wales at BPP Law School, Holborn, London in 1998 and was admitted as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England & Wales in 1999.
He has travelled extensively across four continents of the world and remains a staunch proponent of the global economy and believes that the continuous growth of the digital economy in Nigeria will be a major factor in the attainment of sustainanble development for the country.
Adeleke is married with children.
DIRECTOR, NEW GROWTH AREAS DIRECTORATE, LAGOS STATE INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (LIRS)
Jimi Aina is the Director of the New Growth Areas Directorate at the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS). With a specialization in tax administration and a keen eye for identifying emerging opportunities in evolving sectors, Jimi plays a vital role in driving growth and maximizing revenue for the organization. His responsibilities include managing personal income taxes for high net worth individuals, withholding taxes for entities including fintech startups, and overseeing the administration of the Hotel Occupancy and Restaurant Consumption Tax.
Prior to his current role, Jimi served as the Board Secretary, where he skillfully handled technical issues within the LIRS while representing the agency in corporate and media environments. Notably, he chaired the Policy Enablement Committee of the Lagos State KITE@Yaba Project, spearheading technological innovation and entrepreneurship. His contributions also played a significant role in improving Lagos State’s ease of doing business ranking.
Jimi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, providing him with a strong analytical foundation. He has further enhanced his knowledge and skills through Executive Education programs at prestigious institutions such as Harvard and Columbia University. As an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, Jimi remains up-to-date with the latest industry practices and advancements.
GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, OCTO5 HOLDINGS LIMITED
Babajide Odusolu is an innovative entrepreneur and serial real estate Developer. He founded Octo5 Estates Limited (formerly known as Legacy Realties Ltd) and Octo5 Holdings Limited (formerly Legacy Holdings Ltd) in 1997 & 2001 respectively and served as the Managing Director. He initiated and developed Heritage Place, a ten (10) acre gated community, located along the Monastery Road, Sangotedo in 2003. Followed by Ocean Bay Estate, an eighty-two and half (82.5) acre, gated community located in Lafiaji, Lekki completed in 2008.
In June 2013, he joined the Ogun State Government and served as a Special Adviser in charge of Property and Investments. Between 2013 – 2019, he was a key member of the Ogun State Housing Team, Managing Director of Ogun State Property Investment Corporation (OPIC) and Director of Gateway Mortgages Limited. Babajide, championed OPIC’s total turnaround and led the development of several change projects such as MTR Gardens, Isheri, New Makun City, Lagos Ibadan Expressway, the development of MITROS Residences Boutique Hotel in Abeokuta and overhauled the primary infrastructure at OPIC Agbara / Igbesa Industrial Estate.
In May 2019, Babajide returned to Octo5 as the Group Chief Executive Officer. He is now championing the deployment of technology to accelerate delivery of investment property and affordable homes in a bid to devise innovative solutions for Nigeria’s worsening housing crisis and provide employment for the Nation’s growing youth population.
HOSPITALITY INVESTOR
FOUNDER, CARNIVAL, LAGOS
GLOBAL KITCHEN, SRI LANKA
HORTON TOWERS, SRI LANKA
INDIAN SUMMER, SRI LANKA
PACK-A-POW, SRI LANKA
CHOW TIME, DUBAI
INDIA SUMMER, DUBAI
INDIAN SUMMER, KSA
SUMMER PLACE, KSA
SEASONS RESTAURANT, KSA.
Mr. Mistry is an exceptionally skilled Senior Executive that devoted his entire career to the hospitality industry. After graduating in 1986 he moved to The United States to manage and operate a chain of Indian Fine Dine restaurants for a UK-based company, Royal Gaylord, with the brand name Maharaja Restaurants in the state of Texas, City of Houston from 1987 to 1990.
Mr. Mistry moved to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in early 1991 to manage the Operations of a Dallas Texas based Pizza Franchise, who had acquired contracts to cater to the US armed forces stationed in the region during the Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield.
With a direct contract with AAFES, army and air force exchange services, Mr. Mistry was responsible to mobilize several outlets on the makeshift army and air force bases in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
After the end of the military operation, Mr Mistry was instrumental in opening the first two flagship restaurants in the city of Riyadh, in the year 1992 and developed around 40 outlets till 2010.
Mr. Mistry was also successful in negotiating and franchising a frozen yoghurt brand, FreshBerry in 2010 an Oklahoma-based company called Beautiful Brands.
After the successful opening of four Frozen Yoghurt Parlors in Riyadh, the brand very quickly spread to the Western and Eastern regions of Saudi Arabia and later sub-franchised in Kuwait and Bahrain.
In 2021, Mr. Mistry ventured into the West African market opening his first flagship outlet in Victoria Island, Lagos; a fine-dine restaurant serving modern Asian Fusion cuisine, with an esthetically pleasing lounge on the first floor. Mr. Mistry is looking to expand operations in the African region and bring in concepts and locations like never seen before.
This gave him international exposure in the different markets of the United States, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bangladesh, India, the United Arab Emirates & Nigeria witnessing the opening of over 65 locations.
Mr. Mistry also developed and founded the Indian Summer, Fine Indian Dining concept, from scratch and developed the first outlet in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in the year 2014. He developed and grew the chain, which currently has 8 outlets in Riyadh. Mr. Mistry then took the brand to the United Arab Emirates, opened the first flagship full-service diner in the year 2014, and successfully opened the second outlet in the year 2016, with two more outlets on the drawing board.
He is a very detail-oriented individual that strives for perfection and optimizing resources. With a natural knack for business and a sharp eye, the opportunities are endless. Great leader and leadership skills to ensure all members exceed expectations and objectives.
Over the past 30 years, Mr. Mistry has successfully fulfilled the key position roles and exceeded expectations. From starting up a business from scratch, to franchising, and to meticulously operating and managing huge existing operations, he had acquired immense skill and is an extremely valuable asset.
Founder, The House, The Terrace and Hamilton & Hamilton
Meet Mrs. Tobi Hamilton-Oredugba, an inspiring visionary and creative entrepreneur renowned for her innovative strategies and transformative mindset. With an unstoppable drive to build and empower, Tobi has helped numerous entrepreneurs achieve their dreams and turned struggling businesses into sustainable organizations.
Her flagship venture, THE HOUSE, a lifestyle restaurant founded six years ago, defied the odds of currency devaluation and Covid-19 disruptions. Not only did it expand operations and serve over 500,000 customers, but it also witnessed an impressive 40% year-on-year growth in profitability. From having no experience whatsoever in hospitality, today, THE HOUSE employs nearly 200 Nigerians, has won a Google award, EMEA award and recently welcomed a new addition to its portfolio called The Terrace in March 2023.
Tobi’s influence extends further as the owner of Hamilton and Hamilton, a dynamic marketing agency empowering brands to penetrate new markets with captivating storytelling and disruptive strategies. Her leadership roles with global brands like Best Buy and G-Star Raw showcase her managerial prowess and international experience.
With a wealth of knowledge acquired from prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School, Tobi is committed to helping entrepreneurs and businesses fulfill their potential. As a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing, *who* also holds a Non – Executive role at Balosh *Integrated* Ltd, her vision is to inspire greatness and drive remarkable success.
Mrs. Tobi Hamilton-Oredugba: a catalyst for growth, a builder of dreams, and an exceptional partner on the journey to success.
Founder, Herconomy
Ifedayo Durosinmi – Etti is an Author, Entrepreneur and young global leader with over 10 years of management and leadership experience working in the fashion, marketing and manufacturing industries. Ife holds a first degree in Biochemistry and an MBA in Global Business.
Prior to moving back to Nigeria in 2012, she worked with Arcadia Group Plc, a British multinational retailing company headquartered in London, and also worked at Aspire Acquisitions. Ifedayo joined Nigerian Breweries (Heineken Operating Company in Nigeria) as a Young African Talent (YAT) and transitioned to their Corporate Communications Department in the position of Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability Support Manager, where she successfully managed various corporate social responsibility and sustainability projects. Ifedayo is also an associate member of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON).
In 2017, Ifedayo received an award from Vivian Fowler College for Girls, one of Nigeria’s best secondary schools, in recognition of her contribution to women’s empowerment. In 2018 as well, she received the Women’s Advocacy Award from the West African Leadership Organization; for her exemplary leadership and dedication to the socio-economic development in West Africa.
By March 2018, she was invited to Harvard University as a panellist, to discuss the role of women in democracy and how it impacts businesses in Africa, during their African Development Conference. Ife was named a Peace Scholar by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and was recently selected to receive mentorship from world-renowned artiste and businessman, Akon, as a result of her contributions to the entrepreneurship sector in Africa. In addition, she is a One Young World Ambassador, listed as one of the top 100 Women by Leading Ladies Africa. She was recently appointed as a Youth Advisory Group Member for Solutions for Youth Employment (S4YE), a global coalition formed by the World Bank, aimed at providing catalytic support to employment and productive work for 150 million youth by 2030.
Ifedayo was selected as a Mandela Washington Fellow in 2021, the flagship program of the U.S. Government, launched in 2014 for Young African Leaders. She was selected as a Global Shaper of the World Economic Forum and is currently the Project Lead for Startup Dome, a project launched to bridge the gender gap through the socio-economic empowerment of women in Nigeria.
Ife is the proud founder of Herconomy (formerly called AGS Tribe), a community she developed driven by her own experience. Herconomy is a community for empowered women, combined with a financial platform, with a mission to empower women through Financial Services, Capacity Building, Jobs and Networking. Since its launch, they have trained over 85,000 women online and offline. Selected as one of the top 10 Tech Startups in Africa by the prestigious Startup Bootcamp Accelerator Program, Herconomy is positioned to become one of the top Fintech companies in Africa.
In 2021, Herconomy was also selected for NASDAQ’s Milestone Makers Program for the work being done to empower women. They are also the first Amazon recruitment partner in Nigeria with a signed partnership in 2021.
Founder of Kelechi Amadi-Obi Studios
Kelechi Amadi-Obi studied law at the University of Nigeria but soon set aside his law practice to pursue an artistic career. His quick rise in art circles can be traced to his informal art development while he was a student: he took many extracurricular classes in illustration and honed his skills as a graphic artist by making posters for student union activities and social engagements.
His early work in portrait painting showed a remarkable talent for rendering figurative images. Later, after trying out several painting media, he discovered a particular love for watercolor paints: its delicate transparency enabled him to create enthralling figurative paintings and verdant landscapes. He used black and white ink washes for a while and composed his paintings based on his photograph of the models.
In time, Amadi-Obi focused on photography as a primary medium and has since become acclaimed as a photographer particularly for his documentation of major figures of contemporary Nigerian pop music and stars of the internationally acclaimed Nollywood Nigerian Film industry.
Team Lead, Women in Business Segment, W Initiative, Access Bank
Olubusola Farawe is the Team Lead, Women in Business Segment at W Initiative of Access Bank. She currently oversees and manages products and services addressing the financial and non-financial needs of women SMEs including women in hospitality in Access Bank. The “W” represents the home for everything Access Bank offers to women. The initiative is targeted at serving women across different segments including business, professionals etc by providing financial and non- financial services to meets the varying lifestyle and financial needs of women. The initiative has won several accolades some of which includes the Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs by Global SME Finance, DMB with the Highest Impact on Women SMEs by DBN Women Market Champion 2015 by Global Banking Alliance (GBA) for Women in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the Central Bank of Nigeria Excellence in Women Economic Empowerment in 2017, etc
Olubusola is a graduate of Economics from Babcock University, Ogun State. She is a Chartered Banker and an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Banker. Olubusola started her banking career as a segment manager managing the Educational Institutions segment and Her portfolio defined the inclusive approach to banking women, children and the educational segments in the Bank.
Founder, Tirta Ayu Spa
General Manager/Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency
Dr (Mrs) Adedolapo Fasawe is the General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State
Environmental Protection Agency. She is responsible for implementing policies to protect and improve the environment in Lagos.
As the General Manager of LASEPA, Dr Fasawe has successfully driven several environmental and sustainability projects, including the Noiseless Lagos Campaign and Ban of Single Use Plastic Bags Campaign. She is a member of several local and national committees, including the National Committee on the Study on Available Sustainable Alternative Materials to Plastics and Innovative Packaging and Recycling Technologies, sponsored by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO). She is considered one of the foremost experts in Nigeria on exploring the nexus between public health and the environment for building resilient urban cities for the 21st century.
Dr Fasawe received her MBChB Degree in Medicine and Surgery from Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife on the Honours roll. She was also awarded the House Officer of the Year at the end of her internship at the same university. Dr Fasawe holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from the Lagos State University College of Medicine and diplomas in International Health consultancy from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and Global Mental Health Management from King’s College London.
As the Coordinator of the Lagos State Special Projects Unit, domiciled in the Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr Fasawe was responsible for and exposed to the ideation, development, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation of new and existing projects, in line with the government’s mandate of universal access to Primary Healthcare services for all Lagosians. It is with this directive and
regards that she approached the under-listed programs during her tenure:
1) Eko Free Health program was deployed to strengthen community health-seeking habits, reduce government health burden, and improve long-term quality of life by providing free basic medical, surgical, and health advocacy services across the 20 local government areas of the state.
2) Free Limb Deformity Corrective Surgery and Rehabilitative program were deployed as secondary health care and follow-up service for various medical conditions involving limbs, including polio. This was run as an inclusive, annual project with over 2,000 beneficiaries during her tenure, including some of our differently-abled civil servants.
3) Operation “SMILE” is an annual free cleft lip and cleft palate restorative surgical program, which enabled us to directly impact and improve the quality of life of over 3,000 children between the ages of 6 months to 5 years.
4) Lagos State Motor Park Health and Safety Program was launched and sustained as a primary health care channel to combat the rising incidence and prevalence trends of non-communicable diseases (Hypertension, Diabetes, eye disease) in the transport workers cohort as a fallout of the data gathered during the Eko Free Health Mission.
5) Creation of the first Mental Health desk in Lagos State, which she co-chaired with various relevant stakeholders across all tiers of engagement. This culminated in the development of the first draft of the Lagos State Mental Health policy, enacted as the Lagos State Mental Health Law of 2018. This was massively celebrated as a vital part of the Livable Cities project and event in 2018.
Notably, these projects and programs were widely uptaken by the communities and massively improved our trust profile as a state government. This ensured valuable data were collected and resources were judiciously applied to solving broader state challenges.
As a devoted team player, Dr Fasawe has always prioritised harmonious civil service and inter-MDA operations/interactions, as exemplified by her critical role in the management of various epidemics across the state, including Cholera, Lassa Fever, Ebola, and COVID-19, for which she was graciously recognised for her achievements and duly recommended for a noteworthy advancement and promotion to Director level in 2015.
As the GM/CEO of LASEPA, she serves as the Chief Returning Officer for the execution of the mandate to Lagosians to protect the environment and regulate its fair and responsible use. The Agency, under her leadership, has successfully incubated and implemented various notable projects, interventions, policies, and pilots towards achieving a more resilient and environmentally vigilant Lagos and Lagosians. These have primarily been driven through developing and maintaining various public, private, non-governmental, and civil society partnerships from community to global levels.
Pertinent to highlight is the reanimation of a World Bank, bank executed project, which gave the state access to over 4 million USD worth of air quality monitoring equipment and generated a detailed economic and scientific inventory on the effects of air pollution in Lagos Metropolis.
LASEPA has also, under her leadership, successfully trailed the “Trash for Cash” and “Eko for Clean Air” initiatives, a community-based, incentivised circular economy as a pollution advocacy, inventory, control, and social engagement exchange solution, supported by various foreign missions/embassies, developmental partners, joint private sector, the media and other relevant environmental monitoring and pressure groups.
These initiatives can empower over 2 million Lagosians and create new revenue and tax channels through government-backed and regulated waste-to-wealth and circular economy opportunities and activities.
Her foundational solution principles are centred around a community-centric and self-regulatory-based approach to stakeholder engagement. This has led to tangible results that the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Lagos State Executive Committee, and various international partners lauded.
Dr Fasawe has benefitted from the Lagos State Civil Service Commission’s intense training and skills acquisition ethics. She has attended several practical and didactic training events and leadership certification courses, which she will transfer to the beneficial and equitable discharge of her duties.
Dr Fasawe is well equipped to apply and deploy, to the best of her abilities, a broad range of exposures, fiscal management experience, and human resources optimisation tirelessly and assiduously to the effective discharge and further enhancement of performance levels in the service of the Nigerians at all tiers of government.
Dr Fasawe’s contributions to developing Nigeria’s healthcare sector are significant and noteworthy. Several organisations have recognised her, and she has received numerous awards for her work in public health. Her experience managing public health programs, designing health policies, and collaborating with stakeholders across different sectors make her an asset to the Nigeria Primary Health Care Development Agency
Founder, Rio, Envy, 343° North, O’Shey Cafe & Bar, Carnival
Ms. Karishma is a true visionary in creating exceptional guest experiences and a distinguished owner of 343° North, Envy, Rio, O’Shey Café & Bar, and Carnival.
Ms. Karishma have background spanning multiple countries and cultures, understands the power of diversity and the impact it can have on hospitality.
She believes in embracing different culinary traditions and incorporating them into her venues, providing guests with a truly immersive and memorable experience.
Ms Karishma’s entrepreneurial spirit and innovative mindset have propelled her to the forefront of the industry.
She constantly seeks new ways to elevate her venues, staying ahead of the curve and setting trends that inspire others in the business.
Co-founder Messenger
Amanda Etuk is an accomplished, results-driven business management professional with deep experience in supply chain management, logistics and distribution, and sales and marketing.
Amanda has a proven track record of business optimization. She has driven the competitiveness of organizations in the healthcare industry, the FMCG sector, e-commerce, and logistics, where her passion lies. In all her roles, she has delivered business and revenue growth and efficiency gains, and successfully strengthened client relationships.
She co-founded Messenger, a logistics platform that provides financing and aggregation for end-to-end logistics and supply chain operations. Messenger efficiently connects businesses to their customers through logistics solutions. Our mobile applications connect individuals and businesses to nearby logistics assets, while also supporting operators through asset financing and operations support.
Messenger is poised towards becoming the preferred partner and a leader in logistics in the city of Abuja with plans to expand to other economically viable cities across Nigeria and Africa.
The team has successfully negotiated new businesses and partnerships with the likes of Jumia Food, Omnibiz, amongst many others. Messenger’s delivery hailing platform lis available on IOS and Appstore.
The company has been lauded by various organizations, She Leads Africa, The Africa Business Heroes and has received funding and support from The Baobab Network. The company is currently raising its pre-seed round.
Amanda holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree from the University of Lagos and a masters ‘degree in Global Supply Chain and Logistics Management attained at the University of Sussex. Her recent career experience includes senior roles at 54gene, Zippy Logistics and Hygeia HMO.
FOUNDER, CHART ECO GLOBAL SERVICES
Okusami Itunu is an Ecopreneur who is in the business of turning waste to wealth, trash to treasure and rubbish to resource. He is a graduate of Microbiology with a major in Environmental Microbiology from the University of Lagos.
He is currently the Consultant in Chief of Chart Eco Global Services where he leads a team of young, vibrant and seasoned environmentalists who have a strong track – record of adopting and adapting innovations which bring about development without
tampering with the integrity of the environment. He is also the Co-founder of Jobaye Environmental Solutions, one of the pioneers of the Biogas industry in West Africa.
Itunu is an environmentalist through and through, his almost 10 years experience in the industry has seen him consult for a plethora of reputable organizations both locally and internationally. Some of the organizations include Nestle Nigeria, British American Tobacco, Shell Nigeria, International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and a host of others. He has also consulted for the Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA).
Itunu’s core focus is on the provision of carbon auditing and decarbonization services to both private and public entities. He is tremendously skilled in mapping out strategies and plans that reduce carbon emissions in the environment. He has taken numerous environmental courses with an archive of United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) accredited certificates in his locker.
Co-Founder/Executive Director, Ecoviridis Environmental Technology Limited
Executive President, Lagos Recyclers Association (LAGRA).
Femi Idowu-Adegoke (MCIWM) is a Chartered Waste and Environmental Sustainability Consultant with Masters and Professional doctorate degree in Advance Municipal Solid Waste Treatment Technologies and Collection Implications. Masters of Science in Environmental and Earth Resources Management from Kingston University, Surrey, United Kingdom, BSc(hons)Geography from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria, with various professional development courses from Cranfield University, Bedford, United Kingdom, got over 20 years experience working both in United Kingdom and Nigeria with diverse knowledge of Consultancy and Operations in municipal solid waste management and environmental sustainability industry.
He is Co-Founder/Executive Director at Ecoviridis Environmental Technology Limited, a waste to resource company converting recyclable municipal Solid waste to secondary raw materials and also the Managing Director of Mechris-Planet Environmental Management limited, a waste and environmental consulting firm, registered in Nigeria.
He is an entrepreneur of over 10years. He is an environmental professional and enthusiast, worked with various local Authority and Private Consulting firms in London, United Kingdom between 2002-2012, he believes in Protecting the future from today. A mentor with Tony Elumelu foundation, Fellow Professional Leadership Practitioner Institute, Board of Trustees member Trees on Earth Foundation, Board of Trustees member Centre for Civic Engagement and Citizens Support. Board Member with PetPoints Nigeria Limited.
A Corporate member of Chartered Institute of Waste Management UK. (MCIWM), Chartered Member Waste Management Society of Nigeria (WAMASON), Member Energy Institute (EI), Member Recycling Association of Nigeria (RAN) and Executive President, Lagos Recyclers Association (LAGRA).
Head of Reserve, DIAGEO
As the Head of Reserve with DIAGEO, Opeyemi Makinwa is a seasoned professional in charge of the commercialization of the luxury drinks portfolio. She possesses a deep understanding of the unique demands and intricacies of the luxury market and has a track record of success in driving growth and profitability within this sector.
Prior to joining Diageo, Opeyemi worked in the banking sector for 12 years, where she rose to the Head of Premium banking segment at FCMB.
She also did a stint in Private Banking at First Bank, where she led a team of 7 in developing wealth and investment opportunities for High net worth individuals.
She is passionate about gender diversity and women’s inclusion and lends her voice to the professional development of women in the workplace. She is also an active mentor and coach at the Diageo Bar Academy, a training programme that empowers and imparts young females to take up roles in bartending, which is seen as a male-dominated profession.
She holds a B.Sc. in Accounting from the prestigious University of Lagos and has an MBA from the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom.
Away from work, Opeyemi loves to travel and explore new adventures and cultures.
MANAGING PARTNER
VERTILINE SYNERGY LIMITED
Ms. Sharon Ashinze is a distinguished Business leader, Operations Expert, Strategist and philanthropist.
Ms. Ashinze is the Managing Partner and Chief Operating Officer of Vertiline Synergy Ltd, a renowned hospitality consulting and solutions company. Since its establishment in 2014, Vertiline Synergy Ltd has garnered a stellar reputation in Dubai, Lagos, and Abuja, offering innovative services and pioneering solutions within the hospitality sector.
Ms. Sharon is a management information systems expert, she started off her career as a banker, moving on to start her own business.
With over 12 years of experience in operations management, Ms. Ashinze has emerged as a dynamic force in the hospitality industry.
As a seasoned operations manager, Ms. Ashinze has held pivotal roles in numerous companies, showcasing her exceptional skills in optimizing operational efficiency and fostering business growth. Her extensive background in the field has earned her degrees, certifications, and accolades, cementing her reputation as a respected industry professional.
Ms. Ashinze’s philanthropic endeavors has spanned over 15 years, reflecting her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. She is the co-founder of Golden Little Lights Organization, an influential NGO. From its official launch in 2018, Golden Little Organization has fed over 5000 children and their families across Nigeria.
Through Initiatives such as The Prison Reform Project (so far has facilitated the freedom of 6 wrongfully incarcerated individuals), The Feeding Initiative, The Back To School Initiative and The Annual Christmas and Children’s Day Party for 500 Underprivileged Children,
Ms. Sharon’s organization has provided critical support and hope to thousands of individuals and families.
Founder, Derin Fabikun & Co.
Derin Fabikun is the founder of Derin Fabikun & Co. and also the Creative Director of the popular women’s fashion brand, Bloom by FBD , which focuses on ready to wear womenswear . She attended Covenant University, where she bagged a BSc in Management. Derin is known for her feminine yet architectural take on design. Designing for her started as a hobby, in university, she made clothes for herself then graduated to making tunics for her sisters, then friends and friends of friends. Today, Bloom by FBD is one of the most sought after brands in Nigeria.
Founder, Lafric Restaurant and Lounge
Richard Balogun serves a the managing partner in Reserve Restaurant and Lounge
Richard studied Business and Finance at the London College of Communication
With over 30years in the hospitality industry, Richard was one of the pioneer owners of Yellow Chilli Restaurant.
He later started Lafric Restaurant and Lounge
Founder of Bolívar
Rasheda A. Walker is an experienced international trade expert with a demonstrated history of working in the Oil and Gas sector. She is a strong business development professional skilled in Marketing, Customer relation Management (CRM) and Art Direction. Helping emerging and established business enterprise seek her proficiency to facilitate their growth by sharing tips and endless resources.
She is the founder and curator of Bolivar bar – an unmissable ‘and must see’ part of Lagos art & nightlife scene- offering patrons a unique and welcoming space that offers laughter, peace, and a break from the Lagos hustle and bustle. She wears a double hat as the Managing Director at Forts & Shields LTD, an exclusive distributor of frontline protection products in Africa, with over a decade experience in Security Consulting and business development.
She also works as an exclusive distributor for Miguel Caballero Bulletproof Couture, The Rook, and LRAD and has demonstrated experience in international business and trade within the West African region and South America.
WORK HISTORY
In 2008, Rasheda took a trip to Lagos, Nigeria where a series of her business opportunities became a journey. She started her company RW Energy solutions where she worked as an international rep/Broker, aligning with companies like Shell and KBR, working on oil and gas deals directly with Venro petroleum a subsidiary of PDVSA a Venezuelan Oil company. She closed her first deal which she brokered between RW Energy Solutions and The Sahara Oil group in 2012. Whilst was ongoing she aligned with military generals and due to travel circumstances, she was sent to Bogota, Columbia to broker a deal to exclusively sell top of the line bulletproof apparel to west Africa.
What Rasheda really gets excited about is connecting with consumers and brands alike while creating unforgettable client experiences and offering experienced solutions.
She specializes in Business Development; helping small business enterprises establish their brand structure, messages, offers, and strategies and giving them the necessary tools to upscale and achieve new business objectives.
After establishing her Security agency ‘Forts & Shield’, Rasheda founded ‘Bolivar Bar’ in 2016, a vibrant open-air waterside hangout with a relaxed atmosphere serving platters and cocktails from premium bottle services.
Her work ethic is driven by discipline, passion, keen eyes for detail and refined excellence, which sets her apart as she continually disrupts the Hospitality and night life scene.
