Elma Godwin, from her breakout days as a fresh-faced presenter on Spice TV to becoming the founder of her own production company, EG Studios, has built a career driven by creativity, cultural pride, and impactful storytelling. Over more than a decade, she has traveled the globe, interviewed top personalities, produced socially conscious films, and created platforms like the Grooming Talent Hunt to discover and nurture emerging Nigerian talent.
Now, after a brief pause to embrace motherhood, Elma Godwin is stepping back into the spotlight with The Elma Podcast—a bold space for authentic conversations, African cultural storytelling, and amplifying voices often left unheard. Beyond the camera, she is a passionate advocate for autism awareness, women’s empowerment, and grassroots community impact.
In this exclusive interview with Red Edit Magazine, Elma opens up about her journey, the moments that have shaped her, and why 2025 is her year of revival.
Early Inspirations and the Spark for Storytelling
1. What first sparked your love for entertainment and storytelling?
Oh, you know, it goes way back to my childhood, curled up watching Nollywood movies with my family. We’d laugh, cry, and even debate the characters like they were relatives. Sometimes, we acted out scenes for fun. However, it was my grandmother’s stories—especially about the rich heritage of the Benin Kingdom—that lit the spark.
Those tales made me wonder: How different are our stories of existence? Can I capture and share them? That was the moment I knew I wanted to connect people through storytelling that truly matters.
Breaking into Television and Spice TV Adventures
2. Your debut with Spice TV in 2013 was impactful. What was that experience like, especially traveling to over 15 countries?
Spice TV was a whirlwind! I was 23, suddenly jetting to the US, South Africa, Botswana—you name it. It was glamorous, but also eye-opening. Before that, I’d been involved in health awareness projects like sickle cell, breast, and cervical cancer campaigns. However, I was determined to lean into entertainment.
For example, I’ll never forget interviewing a designer in Accra who began by selling sewing materials and saving for fashion school in New York. Her passion reminded me of my mother’s resilience. As a result, I learned that storytelling is universal; it crosses borders and unites us.
Lessons from Presenting on Screen
3. Looking back, what did presenting teach you about presence and personality on screen?
It taught me that it’s not about perfection, it’s about being authentic. Viewers can feel your heart and energy. In addition, a warm smile or a genuinely curious question can make people open up, whether they’re celebrities or viewers at home. For me, hosting has always been about listening and making people feel seen.
Studying at the New York Film Academy
4. What prompted your decision to study at the New York Film Academy?
I loved hosting, but I wanted to create stories, not just tell them. So, when the New York Film Academy offered me a 50% scholarship in 2017, after I had already graduated top of my class in their eight-week program, I knew it was a sign.
Furthermore, my goal was to learn the craft behind the camera and tell stories for underrepresented communities, such as indigenous groups and children with autism.
Elma Godwin Defining Moment in Film Training
5. Was there a defining moment during your training?
Absolutely. For instance, I directed a short film about a boy with autism finding his voice. After the screening, a classmate approached me with tears in her eyes and said, “That’s my brother’s story.” At that moment, I knew film was my calling.
Later, I produced an autism documentary with EG Studios in Nigeria in 2021. As a result, NYFA invited me to represent them in Nigeria after graduation.
Founding EG Studios
6. Launching EG Studios right after film school was bold! What was your vision?
The vision was clear—tell stories that matter. Initially, EG Studios focused solely on film. However, we have since expanded to producing Grooming Talent Hunt (now in its sixth year), managing corporate events, covering red carpets, and renting media equipment to other creators. Consequently, we are now building a community of African storytellers.
The Birth of Grooming Talent Hunt
7. What inspired Grooming Talent Hunt?
Talent is everywhere in Nigeria, but opportunities are not. So, partnering with The Grooming Centre, we created a national stage for singers, dancers, designers, and more. Each year, over 500 contestants gather in Lagos to compete for prizes and mentorship. In the end, watching their dreams come alive is unforgettable.
Advocacy for Autism and Women’s Empowerment
8. Your advocacy for the autistic community and market women is deeply personal. What drives it?
My 2021 autism campaign opened my eyes to the stigma families face, especially in Nigeria. And market women? They are the backbone of our communities. In addition, I’ve expanded into cancer and sickle cell outreach, as well as women empowerment programs in collaboration with NGOs and the government. Ultimately, advocacy for me is about ensuring no one is left behind.
Motherhood and Its Impact on Storytelling
9. You paused to focus on motherhood. How has that shaped your work today?
Motherhood with my two girls, Ari and Ani, has been my greatest adventure. It has made me more intentional about the stories I tell. Whether through EG Studios or The Elma Podcast, I now see storytelling as a legacy I want to leave for them.
Elma Godwin Returns with The Elma Podcast
10. Now you’re returning with The Elma Podcast. What stories are you most excited to tell?
I’m eager to share real, raw stories, women breaking ceilings, families navigating autism, and everyday heroes creating change. Furthermore, we’ll discuss empowerment, mental health, and African culture with honesty and heart. I want listeners to feel part of the conversation.
Dream Guests and Future Goals
11. Who is your dream guest?
Michelle Obama—right after my mum! She inspires me with her grace, intelligence, and commitment to empowering others.
The Word for 2025
12. What’s one word to describe your 2025?
Revival. I’m stepping back into the spotlight, recharged and ready to make a bigger impact through The Elma Podcast and EG Studios.
Creative Team
Photography: Sunmisola Olorunnisola & Samuel David Visualz
Makeup: Beauty by Yvon
Hair: Ajaj Sari
Outfits: LeVictoria by Zephans & Co RTW
Creative Direction: Elma Godwin
Editorial Team
Publisher: Anita Adeokhor
Editor: Jovworie Tanshi
Editor in chief: Omolara Cole
