Mo Abudu: The Empire Builder of African Media

Mosunmola Abudu—more widely known as Mo Abudu—has long established herself as a driving force in global media. From human resources consulting to building one of the most recognizable entertainment brands in Africa, her journey reflects bold vision, hard work, and a clear sense of purpose. Born in Hammersmith, West London in September 1964, Mo moved to Nigeria at age seven to live with her grandparents before returning to the UK at eleven. These early years gave her a multicultural grounding that would later shape her global career. At 19, she began her professional life as a brand ambassador for AVON Cosmetics. She went on to work in recruitment and human resources, eventually becoming Head of HR and Training at ExxonMobil. But that was only the beginning. Mo founded Vic Lawrence & Associates, a thriving HR firm, and later developed the Protea Hotel Oakwood Park in Lekki, Lagos. Her transition into media came with the launch of Moments with Mo, a pioneering talk show that set a new standard for TV on the continent. But it was the creation of EbonyLife Television that truly changed the game. What started as a cable network has grown into a full media ecosystem—EbonyLife Films, EbonyLife Studios, the EbonyLife Creative Academy, and EbonyLife Place, a luxury entertainment and hospitality resort in Lagos.

Her impact has not gone unnoticed. Between 2021 and 2023, Forbes listed her among the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, placing her at number 98. The Hollywood Reporter also named her one of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Global Television and one of the 20 Most Powerful Women in Global Entertainment. Now in 2025, Mo Abudu has added another remarkable milestone to her list of achievements: being named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People. It’s a global recognition of the legacy she’s still building—one that centers African stories, develops African talent, and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in media. Mo Abudu’s work continues to redefine how African content is created, owned, and distributed. Her journey proves that with vision and relentless drive, it’s possible to build a legacy that resonates far beyond borders.