The grand finale of the Purple Preneur Star, organised by Purple Rain Galore, has been held in Jos, Plateau State, with participants encouraged to embrace innovation, resilience and entrepreneurship as pathways to sustainable development.
The event, which took place at the Zumji Event Centre, was themed “Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs, Innovators and Change-makers” and attracted entrepreneurs, innovators, movie producers, actors, entertainers, political leaders, students and other stakeholders committed to advancing youth enterprise across Africa.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Purple Rain Galore, Ahmed Sidikat, said the Purple Preneur Star initiative was established to discover, develop and empower entrepreneurs, innovators and creators through mentorship, technology, enterprise development and sustainable opportunities.
She explained that the programme was inspired by the belief that while talent is universal, opportunities are not, stressing the organisation’s commitment to ensuring that gifted young people are equipped with the resources and support needed to thrive.
“Purple Rain Galore exists because potential should never be determined by circumstances. We are transforming ideas into businesses, businesses into jobs, and jobs into communities that will prosper. We discover talent, build entrepreneurs, create opportunities and empower young people through mentorship, technology and enterprise development,” she said.
Sidikat described Purple Preneur Star as an African entrepreneurial reality show designed to give businesses visibility, strengthen leadership capacity and connect participants with opportunities that will help them build sustainable enterprises.
Veteran Nollywood actor Sani Mu’azu challenged aspiring entrepreneurs and filmmakers not to allow their geographical location limit their ambitions, insisting that Plateau State remains a fertile ground for success.
He noted that Jos has made significant contributions to the growth of both Nollywood and Kannywood and urged participants to take advantage of networking opportunities and mentorship.
“You can make it from Plateau. Don’t be deceived by anyone who tells you otherwise. Network, learn and remain committed to your dreams,” he advised.
Delivering a presentation titled “Old Wisdom, New Ideas,” the Director of Administration and Finance at PLASMIDA, Dr. Jekse Le’an, emphasised that lasting business success is built on character, integrity and exceptional customer experience.
He explained that branding extends beyond logos and visual identity, describing it as the lasting impression customers retain after engaging with a business.
Dr. Le’an encouraged young entrepreneurs to acquire practical skills, remain patient and learn from experienced business owners, noting that poor customer service and lack of experience contribute to the failure of many start-ups within their first two years.
Speaking on “Innovation, Branding and Sustainability,” Victor Kuchili described innovation as the only sustainable competitive advantage in today’s rapidly changing business environment.
He urged entrepreneurs to understand their target market, build authentic brands and consistently engage with customers.
“People don’t buy products; they buy benefits. If you’re not listening to your customers, someone else will, and they will win the market,” he said.
Also speaking on “Business Growth and Entrepreneur Mindset,” Sylvia Matlong encouraged participants to cultivate positive attitudes toward entrepreneurship and lifelong learning.
She identified upbringing, environment and life experiences as the three major factors shaping entrepreneurial mindset, urging participants to intentionally surround themselves with positive influences.
Matlong further advised entrepreneurs to understand customer needs, create value, market their businesses consistently and remain committed to continuous personal development, stressing that sustainable business growth requires resilience and deliberate effort.
The event also featured musical performances by Living Scroll, Edge, and vibrant dance presentations that entertained guests throughout the programme.
Organisers announced that the official Purple Preneur Star website would soon be launched to enable aspiring entrepreneurs to register for the reality show and access mentorship, networking and business development opportunities.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the Purple Legacy Awards to individuals recognised for their outstanding contributions to entrepreneurship, leadership and the creative industry.
Among the award recipients were veteran Nollywood actor Sani Mu’azu, Sir Edward Fom Pam, Dr. Ulan Victoria Jatau, alongside other distinguished personalities honoured for their remarkable impact in their respective fields.