{PHOTOS} Shining Stars Association holds annual meeting in Lagos, recounts journey, achievements, others

By ADEWALE OMO OLUBO

According to Abisola Bamidele, the association began as an online platform aimed at motivating and supporting professionals at a time when physical events were impossible.

The Shining Star Association on Tuesday January 19, 2026 held its Annual General Meeting at the Marriott Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, where members and stakeholders gathered to review the association’s journey, celebrate its achievements and outline its vision for the future.

Addressing the gathering, Convener of the Shining Star Association and Alaga Mentoring Tribe, Chief Dr. Abisola Bamidele a.k.a. Alaga Iyawo, said the association was founded in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

She recalled that the period was characterised by restrictions on social gatherings and a shutdown of events, which severely affected professionals in the event and entertainment industry.

According to her, the association began as an online platform aimed at motivating and supporting professionals at a time when physical events were impossible.

“Shining Stars Association was established during the COVID-19 era when there were no events and many people were discouraged. To respond to that challenge, I created an online space where people could learn, stay motivated and encourage one another. That initiative later evolved into the Shining Star Association,” she said.

Chief Bamidele noted that the association had since exceeded expectations, producing members who have gone on to making significant impact within and beyond the event industry.

She said consistent mentorship, motivation and encouragement have helped many members overcome self-doubt and achieve professional success.

“Many of the stars we celebrate in the industry today are members of Shining Star. With the right guidance from our motivational speakers and leadership, people who once felt limited are now excelling in their respective fields,” she stated.

Speaking on the association’s future direction, the convener disclosed plans for Shining Star to play prominent roles in major national and high-profile events.

“Our goal is to be involved everywhere — from presidential and gubernatorial events to ministerial functions, royal weddings and other high-class ceremonies. We want to sit at the table with key decision-makers and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.

Also called Alaga Iyawo, Chief Abisola Bamidele outlined her long-term vision of raising influential personalities through the platform, with particular emphasis on strategic use of social media.

“My vision is to see our members thrive and become highly sought-after Alagas and influencers. I teach them never to underestimate the power of social media, which, when used wisely, can help them dominate their space both online and offline,” she added.

She further emphasised the association’s strict membership policy, noting that professionalism, discipline and quality remain core values.

“We don’t accept just anyone. Prospective members go through a detailed screening and interview process, and only those who meet our standards are admitted,” she said.

The meeting concluded with members reaffirming their commitment to excellence, professionalism and mutual support, which they described as the defining values of the Shining Star Association.

Guests who attended the event included former Commander of Nigerian Army Ordnance Corps, Retired Major General Adekunle Martins among others.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH VIDEO OF CHIEF BAMIDELE’S ADDRESS

Other photographs from the event below: