Few individuals in social entrepreneurship and media advocacy have made as enduring an impact as Chude Jideonwo. Chude is a Nigerian TV host, filmmaker, and media entrepreneur. Throughout his diverse career, encompassing journalism, social activism, and youth empowerment, Chude has risen as a prominent advocate for transformation in Nigeria and globally.
Chude’s work centres on storytelling from across disciplines to inspire new, human-centred narratives about African politics, markets, faith, identity, and society. He advises and consults for nonprofits and corporations worldwide on the media and storytelling, democracy, human rights, and social justice.
Background
Chude Jideonwo was born in Lagos to Ifeanyi S. Jideonwo and Ngozi A. Jideonwo. He attended K. Kotun Memorial Primary School and Adebola Baptist High School for his primary and secondary education, respectively. He later went to Mayflower School, Ikenne. Chude studied Law at the University of Lagos and was called to the Nigerian Bar in November 2007. He obtained a Master’s in Media and Communications from the Pan-African University in Lagos.
Chude is one of the founders of Red Africa and Joy, Inc., an American corporation with a Nigerian subsidiary. He has gained experience working in media, advertising, and public relations. Additionally, he serves as the executive producer and host of #WithChude. This series comprises a range of multimedia content, including videos, audio, texts, and events. The series features targeted conversations and investigations.
Chude is the director of #ChudeExplains, a series of films that focuses on social justice and culture. He is also the co-founder of The Future Project. His team has led communication campaigns through Red Africa for two Nigerian Presidents and a Ghanaian President. In November 2023, Chude Jideonwo was appointed board chair of The Initiative for Equal Rights (TIERs).
Early Career and Media Ventures
Chude’s foray into the media industry started with roles as a TV presenter and researcher, where he honed his skills and developed a passion for storytelling. His work on popular shows like Inside Out with Agatha and New Dawn showcased his talent and dedication to his craft. During this time, he crossed paths with Adebola Williams, with whom he would later embark on a journey to create Red Africa.
Chude has extensive experience in the entertainment industry, having worked as an associate producer for New Dawn, which airs on the NTA Network. He has also appeared on several shows, including The Academy, Patito’s Gang, Video 10, Big Brother Nigeria, MNet’s Moments with Mo’, and the Rubbin’ Minds talk show on Channels Television.
In 2004, while working at New Dawn with Funmi Iyanda, Chude hosted a show on the NTA network called “Youth Talk,” eventually establishing and registering thRedSTRAT in 2005. Chude’s work has been featured on several notable TV channels, including Channels TV, Rave TV, Wazobia Max TV, GOTV, StarTimes, and DSTV. His show has featured renowned personalities such as Joke Silva, the wife of Olu Jacobs, Jim Iyke, and Kemi Afolabi.
In July 2009, Chude started working at NEXT Newspapers, where he served as an editorial board member and copy editor. During his time there, he wrote a column called “Sons and Daughters” that appeared in the Sunday edition of The Guardian. This column profiled the children of wealthy and well-known individuals and ran for three years.
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Entrepreneurial Ventures: Red Africa and Joy, Inc.
In 2005, Chude co-founded Red Africa with Adebola Williams. This laid the foundation for one of Nigeria’s leading media and communication companies. He has led groundbreaking initiatives such as The Future Awards Africa and StateCraft Inc. through Red.
Besides his work with Red Africa, Chude founded Joy, Inc., a teaching and media company devoted to promoting happiness and well-being. Through Joy, Inc., Chude has established a platform for impactful storytelling and education, which inspires individuals to lead more fulfilling lives.
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Impact and Recognition
Chude’s contributions to media advocacy and social entrepreneurship have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has received numerous awards and accolades for his work.
In 2011, Chude conducted an essential interview with former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, securing a rare sit-down with the nation’s leader. In 2012, he was named the youngest member of the awards committee for the Ford Foundation Jubilee Transparency Award, highlighting his commitment to promoting accountability and transparency. He was also appointed to the British Council’s Steering Group for the Creative Industries Expo, showcasing his expertise and influence in the creative sector.
The Punch newspaper recognized him as one of the young people to watch in 2012, further solidifying his status as a rising star and influential figure. He was also included in BusinessDay’s prestigious “40 under 40” list in 2012, underscoring his remarkable achievements and impact at a young age.
Honors
In 2013, he was honored as one of Forbes’ “30 Under 30: Africa’s Best Young Entrepreneurs,” recognizing his entrepreneurial prowess and innovative leadership.
Chude was awarded the Greenberg Fellowship at Yale University in 2017, a prestigious honor that reflects his intellectual curiosity and commitment to academic excellence.
In 2018, Chude was selected as a Tutu Leadership Programme Fellow, joining a cohort of emerging African leaders dedicated to driving positive change on the continent. In 2020, he received the 1 million Naira Prize for Difference and Diversity, acknowledging his advocacy efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion in society.
Chude’s documentary “Awaiting Trial” was nominated for the 2022 Africa International Film Festival, showcasing his talent as a filmmaker and storyteller.
In 2023, “Awaiting Trial” received further recognition with a nomination for Best Documentary at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award, highlighting its impact and relevance. He was also honored with the Pulse Influencer Awards for Podcast Influencer of the Year, recognizing his influence and reach in the digital space. Additionally, he was nominated as Most Popular Media Personality (Male) at NET Honours 2023, a testament to his widespread popularity and impact in the media industry.
Chude also teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students at the Pan Atlantic University and has been a board member at Microsoft 4Afrika, the Oando Foundation, and The Initiative for Equal Rights, which board he chairs. His books, “Are We The Turning Point Generation” and “How to Win Elections in Africa: Parallels with Donald Trump,” have cemented his status as a thought leader in media and governance.