Mo Abudu, a trailblazing media entrepreneur and CEO of EbonyLife Media, has earned a spot on TIME’s prestigious 100 Most Influential People of 2025. This recognition highlights her remarkable influence on African storytelling and her pivotal role in transforming the global media landscape. Each year, TIME celebrates those spearheading change through innovation, leadership, and cultural relevance. The list showcases a diverse array of champions in fields such as politics, science, the arts, and activism. Abudu stands out for her relentless dedication to promoting African narratives and redefining the global perception of the continent. Through EbonyLife's extensive initiatives in television, film, training, and hospitality, she is committed to creating platforms for African creativity to flourish and gain visibility. Idris Elba, the Emmy-nominated actor and producer, wrote a heartfelt tribute to Abudu in his contribution to TIME’s list. The two joined forces on the film ‘Dust to Dreams,’ a project that blossomed from their collaboration two years prior. Elba celebrated her remarkable drive, stating:
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Mo Abudu is a name that resonates throughout the African film industry. Anyone familiar with this landscape knows her impact and influence. My admiration for her work led me to reach out two years ago, and before long, we were collaborating on a film that evolved into Dust to Dreams. What stands out about Mo is her remarkable efficiency. With an infectious positivity and unwavering determination, she tackles challenges head-on. Her expansive empire, which includes studios, productions, cinemas, and a creative academy, is a testament to her vision and relentless drive. Last year, Mo launched the impressive $50 million Afro Film Fund, underscoring her deep commitment to the African narrative and how its stories and people are represented onscreen. For anyone looking to understand the filmmaking landscape in Africa—or beyond—there’s much to learn from Mo, as she consistently delivers results. Her influence goes well beyond film production.
Just last month, she made headlines by acquiring property in London for EbonyLife Place London, an unprecedented cultural and creative hub aimed at providing African creatives a platform to showcase talent, monetize their work, and elevate their brands. This venue will celebrate African film, theatre, music, food, art, and fashion, effectively bringing the continent's rich storytelling to a global audience. On social media, Mo expressed her excitement about being included on the TIME list, framing it as a collective triumph for Africa. “This moment isn’t just about me — it’s a celebration of African creativity, Nigerian passion and purpose, and the power of storytelling to shape culture, shift narratives, and drive real impact,” she noted. She joins a distinguished group of African leaders and creatives recognized on the TIME 100 list this year, including renowned chef and restaurateur Kwame Onwuachi; Angeline Murimirwa, CEO of CAMFED, which has empowered millions of girls across Africa to pursue education; leading scientist Christian Happi in infectious disease research; human rights activist Fatou Baldeh; Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the first African Director-General of the WHO; and Duma Boko, the President of Botswana.
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