Latasha Ngwube is no stranger to Lagos in peak ‘Arts & Culture Season’ mode.
A seasoned media strategist and longtime cultural commentator, she now serves as Head of Media and PR for AFRIFF. She is also a respected body positivity advocate at About That Curvy Life and a key voice in shaping inclusive beauty narratives across the African fashion and media landscape.
She has worked countless red carpets, moderated major industry conversations and watched AFRIFF evolve from a bold idea into a continental landmark.
Here she shares her personal AFRIFF survival notes. The fuel, the fashion, the pet peeves and the small rituals that keep her centred during one of the busiest cultural weeks in Lagos.
Favourite fuel at AFRIFF? It has to be the grilled tilapia and sweet fried plantain I always seek out in Lagos. Outside Nigeria I’ll find the nearest alleyway with real local food.
Most overrated trend at events? Chasing “celebrity ” on the guest list instead of matching feelings. I’d rather talk to someone whose story touches me deeply than pose with someone famous just for the photo op.
Biggest AFRIFF faux pas? Talking in screenings. I don’t mind when people get emotional, or are clearly invested in the story and react accordingly, but I cannot stand when people do insane things like attempt to take phone calls!
One thing you never travel without, besides your phone? My oversized scarf and a dye-free lip balm. The scarf doubles as a wrap for late-night panel rooms that turn AC-cold; the balm keeps me feeling polished through the airports, press lines and red-carpet hops.
Go-to outfit for a festival evening?
A bold colour midi dress from a Nigerian designer, paired with statement earrings and minimalist heels. It says “I belong here” but also “I add something. I’ve stood at red-carpets and wanted to feel seen yet grounded.'“
Most interesting celeb encounter? Meeting Skepta at AFRIFF last year. He has that rare mix of star power and groundedness.
If you could host a dinner with three people, living or dead, who would you pick? Chinua Achebe for storytelling, Maya Angelou for wisdom, and Fela Kuti for unapologetic truth. Good food, deep laughs, real conversation.
