Nigerian television executive and entrepreneur, Mo Abudu, has been appointed a director of the International Academy of Television Arts and Sciences, the organisation responsible for staging the world famous International Emmy Awards.
The development follows the continued progress made by Abudu and EbonyLife Media to seek global recognition for Nigerian television and film productions, as they improve in quality and popularity. As a member of the board, she joins a select group of about 100 directors who are international executives from leading channels, production and distribution companies. Abudu is expected to attend board meetings three or four times a year.
“I’ve always wanted to be a member of the International Academy, to help make African voices heard when it comes to nominating and rewarding the world’s best television shows. To be approved as a director is even better, because we need a seat at the table when important decisions about our industry are being made. I’m grateful to the Academy for their confidence in me,” she said upon hearing the news.
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences brings together the world’s leading media and entertainment professionals, with over 700 members from more than 60 countries. The Academy is a unique, independent organisation comprised of the world’s television and media leaders who come together to exchange ideas, discuss common issues and promote new strategies for the future development of quality global television programming. With Abudu involved, it is hoped that some of these strategies will benefit television producers in Africa.
Founded in 1969, The Academy was chartered with a mission to recognize excellence in television programming produced outside of the United States, and it presents the International Emmy® Award to programmes in twenty categories. The Academy’s annual event schedule includes the International Emmy® Awards, The International Emmy® Kids Awards, @ Miptv and a series of industry events such as Academy Day, The International Emmy® World Television Festival and panels on substantive industry topics.