Before curated experiences and lifestyle fairs became cultural currency in Nigeria, Yewande Zaccheaus had already envisioned it all, transforming the nation’s celebratory spirit into a full-fledged industry. Today, she is widely recognized as the architect of modern event planning in Nigeria.
With a background in law and banking, Yewande made a radical pivot in 2002 to establish Eventful Ltd, at a time when event planning was largely informal. Her goal? To bring professionalism, structure, and scale to the business of celebrations.
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Over the next two decades, she did exactly that.
Under her leadership, Eventful introduced landmark lifestyle events like the Fashion Souk, Food Souk, Beauty Souk, and Street Souk, dynamic marketplaces that have become annual pillars of Lagos’ cultural calendar. These events aren’t just about aesthetics, they’re platforms that spotlight indigenous entrepreneurs, foster youth-led brands, and energize Nigeria’s creative economy.
But Yewande didn’t just produce events, she built the infrastructure behind them. Through management of premium venues like Harbour Point and The Marquee, Eventful redefined standards in hospitality, logistics, and experience delivery.
Beyond entrepreneurship, Yewande is a founding trustee and former chair of WIMBIZ (Women in Management, Business and Public Service), cementing her legacy as a champion for women in leadership. She is also the author of the acclaimed God’s Waiting Room book series and the executive producer of The Wait, a film adaptation rooted in stories of hope and resilience.
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In recognition of her trailblazing work, Yewande has received accolades including the International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge Award (IWEC) and THISDAY Gamechanger of the Year. In 2023, she was appointed a Non-Executive Director at Wema Bank Plc, adding financial stewardship to her growing influence.
After nearly 20 years at the helm, she passed the Eventful CEO mantle in 2021 but remains as Board Chair, mentoring the next generation of event innovators.
Yewande Zaccheaus didn’t just elevate the business of celebration, she legitimized it. Her legacy lives on in every perfectly timed spotlight, every vibrant souk, and every entrepreneur who dares to turn passion into profession.
