My first time at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) was supposed to be a fun-filled, glamorous night, even though I was there for work. Instead, it turned into a comedy of errors with only a sprinkle of fun.
It all started with my outfit. Determined to look great and snap some pictures for my next birthday, I chose a short, flowery ivory dress with a long bow trail. That trail, however, refused to give me peace of mind. People stepped on it every two minutes, threatening to make me fall, reminiscent of the time I fell into a gutter in front of my home when I was six.
Desperate for a change, I slipped into a semi-bold sequin blazer with matching pants that screamed disco lights. Unfortunately, it also seemed capable of blinding anyone who stared at me for more than eight seconds.
Catwalking into the venue from the Eko Garden, where my company had lodged me, the staff at the entrance politely stopped me, “Hope nothing?” I thought, only to be informed that my wrist tag doesn’t permit entry through that entrance. It was past 4 PM, and I was supposed to be working already. I called Tiarhan for an event pass after spending over 40 minutes standing in the lobby with my feet aching and looking like a lost sheep in a sea of glamorous people.
Inside, I mingled awkwardly, trying to find the Showmax booth where I was supposed to work. Finally locating it, Fadekemi briefed me on my tasks and introduced me to the photographer and videographer I would be working with.
The highlight of my evening began when celebrities started trooping in and out of the hall. I was mesmerised by the stunning fashion styles and convinced many to take pictures at the Showmax booth. It was fun meeting and chatting with stars like Seyi Sodimu, Carolyna Hutchings, Toyin Lawani, Chioma Goodhair, Ireti Doyle, Denrele Edun, Bimbo Akintola, Saheed Balogun, and Scarlet Gomez, to name a few.
Amidst the glamour, I even encountered a low-budget Law Roach, who almost had me cackling out loud. Then there was the “Pinky Barbie,” dressed in baby pink from head to toe. I couldn’t stop staring, wondering if AMVCA 10 had a “dress funny” theme that I and some celebrities had missed.
By the time the evening ended, I could barely feel my waist, having downed three drinks to cope with the chaos. I learned a few valuable lessons: no need to be overly glamorous; chic and uncomplicated styles work just fine. Take a lot of pictures, somehow, just take them, and wear comfortable shoes.
Despite the mishaps, I laughed at myself, at others who looked equally out of place with their outfit choices, and at those who, despite not being fully invited, still managed to look fabulous and snap pictures at every booth. I enjoyed myself thoroughly. After all, you learn from your first errors to do better the second time.
So, if you ever see a person looking very simple, coordinated, and glamorous at the next AMVCA, come say hi. It’s probably me. Shout out to the ID Africa MCN/Showmax team for inviting me to my first AMVCA. It was a beautiful event forever etched in my memory.