Africans are on the verge of a new era of world influence musically, artistically and culturally, the continent offers a variety of tastes which are being shared and sampled by Africans themselves. More and more Africans are interested in home grown movies and entertainment icons creating a niche of celebrities. From Ghawood to Nolywood, African music, highlife, hip life, funk, afro-pop, soul, Zouk, Soukous is influencing and changing world music African communities’ especially in the Ghanaian and Nigerian community in Canada are producing musicians and artist, and the communities are collaborating as one entity. From our music, to our movies, business to professionals there is a sense of enlightenment. African Entertainment Awards capture this essence, bringing the continent together under one roof. It is a new age for African Canadians making their mark in the city, country and North America. It is a time of growth and recognition within our communities.
In retrospect, the second annual African Entertainment Award was held at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre downtown Toronto on the 15th day of September, 2012 between 4pm to 3am of September 16th. The red carpet event was filled with pump and pageantry of African Canadian movers and shakers, trendsetters, image makers, artist and musicians. The event would not be African if it had started on time, the ceremony begun at the usual African time. The masters of ceremonies for the event were MC Bonde and Brenda K. The nominees span across those who were awarded for their excellence in the community service. These awards were received by Mesfun Haile and Microbell.
The best artist category had a nomination that included AO, Freeman Nadawo and Slim Flex all of GHANALINX. The best producer and best club award went to Nyasha and On the Rox respectively. Nigeria’s own hilarious Comedian Femi Lawson won the comedian of the year awards. Best designer award went to Rahyma of Sleek Design. D.J Majic flowz won the best D.J of the year. Best female artist had Ghana’s own Vbling amongst the list of nominees. Other awardees include the Psalmist, Yinka Bode George, MC Ebone who won in their respective categories.
For the best pageant, the award went to Ghana’s Most Beautiful. The best media went to G 98.7 African groove show hosted by MC Bonde, The Voice of Africa. Best concert went to Black Motion of Moon Raiser Ent. In contention in this category was Afro Entertainment. The best entrepreneur was awarded to Tee of Suya spot. For the Ghanaian award nominees, to top it all was the award for best record label was won by Ghanalinx Records owned by Gabriel.
