Chichi Nwoko

Founder & CEO, What Media Group

Chichi Nwoko is a visionary leader and a Pan-Africanist, with the mission to positively impact and contribute to the African media space. As an award-winning executive, with over two decades of experience in film, television, and broadcast, she consistently strives to create opportunities that enhance cross-border collaboration in Africa's creative and sports sectors. Her commitment to bringing Africa to the world has earned her widespread recognition, including being named one of the top 100 Most Influential People of African Descent by MIPAD in the category of “Media and Culture.” Her commitment to innovation and pushing boundaries in the industry has earned her recognition from Forbes Africa, who called her "a woman to know if you are doing business in West Africa," as well as the National Association of Black Female Executives in Music and Entertainment, who named her an “Executive to Watch."

Chichi began her career working at the top U.S. network television affiliates - ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX TV. Committed to bringing her experience working at the top U.S. based television networks back to Africa, she took a role at Optima Media (OMG) as Deputy Director of International Sponsorship and Sales and Group's Development Strategy. She was also the producer and executive producer of "Kids Say The Darndest Things" in Nigeria.

In 2015, Nwoko expanded into the film industry with Road To Yesterday starring Nollywood star Genevieve Nnaji. The two reunited and made history producing, Lion Heart, Netflix's first West African original acquisition opening the door for other titles on the streaming network. Her expertise in the industry was further highlighted during her time as a country manager for Kwese Free Sports, where she managed the commercialization and promotion of major sports franchises like the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Premier League, NBA, and NFL. In 2021, she served as co-executive producer and producer for FIFA 2022 African Qualifiers, overseeing the live production and national distribution of the Super Eagles matches played in Nigeria. Chichi graduated with honors from Columbia University in New York, studying International Politics and African Studies.