In a celebration of cinematic excellence, acclaimed Nigerian costume designer and creative producer Yolanda Okereke has been recognized at the 2025 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) for her outstanding work as the lead costume designer on the film Asoebi Diaries. This accolade underscores the expanding global influence of Nollywood and the artists who bring its stories to life.
As the founder and head of The Rani Company, a leading costume design and styling firm, Okereke was instrumental in shaping the visual narrative of Asoebi Diaries. She has built a formidable reputation for her artistic vision, meticulous attention to detail, and powerful use of costume as a storytelling device, cementing her status as one of Nollywood’s most influential designers.
This latest honor adds to an impressive list of achievements, including nominations at the Africa Movie Academy Awards and the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, as well as a win for Best Fashion Collaboration Film at FAME Week Africa.
Upon receiving the recognition, Okereke shared her excitement, stating, “It’s a huge honor and a significant milestone. Every creator dreams of seeing their work on a global stage, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to have my contribution recognized in this way. The positive reception truly puts a spotlight on the art of costume design.”
Okereke’s portfolio includes some of the most iconic productions in modern Nigerian cinema. Her renowned work can be seen in Netflix’s Blood Sisters and Òlòtūré, as well as blockbuster hits like The Wedding Party, King of Boys 1, La Femme Anjola, House of Gaa, Seven Doors, and Far From Home She is known for expertly managing large wardrobe teams and using clothing to define characters and advance plots across diverse genres.
She emphasised the critical role costume designers play in filmmaking: “As a costume designer, you are a vital part of the film’s storytelling engine. It requires a deep understanding of the narrative and the characters. When you grasp who a character is, you can use costume to mould their identity and visually express their journey to the audience.”
Okereke hopes her achievement will inspire a new generation of creatives. She aims to reinforce that costume design is a legitimate and impactful profession: “I hope this reminds aspiring costume designers that their dreams are valid. This is not just a side gig—it is a dedicated craft and a true profession. To see our work celebrated on a world stage is amazing. If you have a flair for this, you can absolutely get here. Your contribution is essential, and it can take you to incredible places.”
