By Oluchi Obiahu
Samla International Race 2026, January 24, Qatar
What a beast of an event! The inaugural international edition of the Samla International Race took place on 24 January 2026, drawing 336 tough athletes from 50 nationalities for Qatar’s ultimate endurance test – a non-stop 100km challenge that pushed every limit. Athletes tackled six brutal stages back-to-back: a 3km open-water swim, 21km run, 22km mountain biking, kayaking, more trail running (up to 49km total running), and everything in between – all under the harsh Qatari sun and across stunning natural landscapes. It was grueling, inspiring, and full of epic battles. Rooted in Qatari heritage symbolizing strength, the race lived up to its name – “Samla” meaning endurance and purpose.
Beyond the competition, it showcased Qatar’s push for sports tourism, hosting a world-class event that highlighted the country’s diverse terrain and hospitality. Here are some highlights from the action-packed day for your pleasure – athletes grinding through swims, runs, bikes, and finishes.
Ready To Wear Your Skin?
HOSTED BY TAC
The Aesthetic Clinic UK (TAC UK) is set to host WEAR YOUR SKIN, an intimate, invite-only fashion pop-up and studio opening that explores the intersection of fashion, identity, and skin confidence.
Scheduled for Saturday, 21 February 2026, the experience will take place at TAC UK’s new North London studio and will bring together a curated audience of creatives, professionals, and culture-led individuals with a shared interest in fashion, beauty, and self-expression.
WEAR YOUR SKIN is built around a simple yet powerful concept: you don’t just wear clothes – you wear your skin. While fashion serves as the visual entry point, the experience encourages a deeper conversation around confidence, craftsmanship, and personal identity. The event is designed to feel calm and immersive, favoring a gallery-style presentation over a traditional runway format.
The pop-up will feature selected fashion houses whose aesthetics align with storytelling, confidence, and intentional design. Guests will engage directly with curated fashion displays alongside TAC UK’s approach to skin health and confidence, creating a seamless dialogue between what we wear and how we feel.
In addition to the fashion showcase, the studio opening offers an immersive, fashion-forward experience designed to engage guests in a relaxed yet premium setting. Attendees will explore a curated fashion gallery from partner brands, guest will enjoy signature curated drinks/ canapes while participating in interactive moments including the anonymous Skin Loop Wall, which highlights shared skincare challenges, and the Wear Your Skin editorial portrait corner, where guests can opt in for professional photography.
The evening will also include a concise expert-led talk and Q&A focused on melanin-rich skin, take-home skincare rule cards, optional brand story spotlights, and a calm, concierge-style booking lounge for private consultations. The experience concludes with a collective moment designed to leave guests informed, inspired, and confident.
To maintain exclusivity and guest comfort, attendance will be limited and structured into two timed sessions: an early experience from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, and a late experience from 5:00 PM to 7:00PM.
By positioning fashion and skincare within the same experiential space, WEAR YOUR SKIN reflects a growing cultural shift towards holistic self-expression, where style, wellness, and identity are no longer treated as separate conversations.
The event is by special invitation only, with post-event editorial content and professional visuals to be released following the experience.
MEDIA CONTACT
For press enquiries and further information:
Email: departments@worldprmedialimited.co.uk
Raising Women Webinar
The Raising Women Initiative will host an upcoming webinar introducing the First Daughter Agenda, its 2026 thematic focus. The session will open a vital conversation on the realities, responsibilities, and strength of first daughters and first-facing women.
Through shared stories and guided dialogue, the webinar will explore identity, emotional labour, leadership, and visibility, creating a reflective space for women and allies to listen, learn, and engage. This conversation sets the tone for a year of advocacy, storytelling, and collective action.
INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL ROTTERDAM (IFFR) 2026 (Netherlands)
Date: January 29 – February 8, 2026
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands (various venues including De Doelen, Lantaren Venster, and Cinerama)
We featured this gem before, and it’s still going strong. The 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2026 continues its legacy as one of Europe’s most influential independent film festivals since its founding in 1972. This 11-day celebration of innovative cinema attracts 350,000+ attendees, filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles worldwide. The program features 300+ films across categories like Tiger Competition (emerging directors), Big Screen Competition (mainstream premieres), Voices (bold international narratives), and Focus sections spotlighting experimental and regional cinema. Expect world premieres, Q&As, masterclasses, VR installations, and the IFFR Pro industry hub for networking and co-production deals. A cultural cornerstone in Rotterdam’s creative hub, it blends cutting-edge storytelling with the city’s modern architecture and industrial heritage.
SAPPORO SNOW FESTIVAL 2026 (Japan)
Dates: Wednesday 4 February – Wednesday 11 February 2026
Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan (three main sites: Odori Park, Susukino, and Tsudome)
Japan’s most famous winter festival turns Sapporo into a magical snow and ice wonderland every year! For 2026, from 4 to 11 February, you can enjoy huge, detailed snow sculptures (some as tall as buildings), sparkling ice carvings, and colourful lights that make everything look like a dream at night.
- Odori Park: The biggest snow sculptures here – recreating famous characters, landmarks, and more. Super pretty when lit up after dark. Great for photos!
- Susukino (nightlife area): Cool ice sculptures plus a fun ice bar where you can drink from ice glasses.
- Tsudome (family spot): Snow slides, rafting on snow, and lots of playful activities – perfect for kids and families.
Millions of people come every year to walk around, take photos, play in the snow, and feel the real magic of a Japanese winter. Whether you love art, photos, or just want to have fun in the cold, this festival has something for everyone. Highly recommended – dress warm, bring your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable snowy adventure!
CARNIVAL OF ORURO 2026 (Bolivia)
Dates: Saturday 14 February
Location: Oruro, Bolivia
This is Bolivia’s most famous carnival – a UNESCO Masterpiece of Intangible Heritage that’s full of colour, faith, and energy! Every year, the city of Oruro comes alive with a massive religious and cultural festival honouring the Virgin of Socavón, mixing ancient traditions with Christian roots. Over 28,000 dancers and 10,000 musicians take part in incredible parades. The highlight is the famous Diablada (Devil Dance) – dancers in stunning, handmade costumes and masks act out the battle between good and evil. You’ll see elaborate floats, folk dances from different regions, beautiful embroidery, and non-stop music and rhythm for days. It’s not just watching – the streets fill with people in costumes, open-air performances, and a real sense of community and devotion. If you love authentic culture, music, dance, and big celebrations, this is one of the world’s top carnivals. Come ready to feel the magic, take photos, and join the joyful vibe! See you in Oruro – bring your spirit and comfortable shoes for all the dancing.
POWERELEC NIGERIA 2026 (Nigeria)
Dates: Tuesday 3 February – Thursday 5 February 2026
Location: Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
Nigeria’s biggest and most important event for power and energy is back! POWERELEC Nigeria 2026 is the top international exhibition and conference focused on solar, energy storage, renewables, electric vehicles (EV), power, and the electrical industry. Over three days, it brings together global companies, tech providers, government leaders, investors, and experts from across Africa and beyond. You’ll see the latest innovations on display from over 300 exhibitors (many from countries like India, China, Turkey, and more), join high-level talks and conferences with 50+ speakers, network with thousands of professionals, and explore real solutions for Nigeria’s clean energy future. It’s all about sustainable power – think solar panels, batteries, EV tech, smart grids, and ways to make energy more reliable and green for homes, businesses, and the region. Expect great chances to meet decision-makers, find new partners, and learn about upcoming opportunities in Nigeria’s growing energy sector. Perfect for anyone in renewables, power generation, electrical supply, EVs, or just interested in Africa’s energy transition. Free registration for visitors is open – come see the future of energy up close!
See you at Landmark Centre – let’s power up Nigeria together
BIG WALK: CANCER NO BE KING – WORLD CANCER DAY AWARENESS 2026 (Nigeria)
Date: Wednesday 4 February 2026
Time: Starts at 7:00 AM prompt (morning to afternoon)
Location: Federal Ministry of Women Affairs Headquarters, FCT Abuja
Join this powerful, free community walk in Abuja to mark World Cancer Day and say loud and clear: Cancer No Be King! Organized by Equitable Medicaid and Clinical Research Ltd, it’s all about raising simple, clear awareness on early signs of cancer, breaking myths, and encouraging people to get checked without fear. Thousands will come together for a meaningful walk through the city streets
It’s open to everyone – families, friends, colleagues – no cost to join, This is a step toward saving lives by helping people spot cancer early, seek care, and reduce deaths over time. Perfect for anyone in Abuja who wants to support health education, community outreach, and the fight against cancer in a fun, public way.
NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL ENERGY SUMMIT (NIES) 2026 (Nigeria)
Dates: Monday 2 February – Thursday 5 February 2026
Location: Presidential Banquet Hall, Aso Villa / Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre (BAT ICC), Abuja, Nigeria
This is Africa’s premier energy event – Nigeria’s top international summit for shaping the future of energy on the continent! Under the high patronage of H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it brings together ministers, CEOs, global leaders, investors, policymakers, and experts from oil, gas, renewables, and the wider energy sector. Over four days, expect powerful keynote speeches, panel discussions, technical sessions, an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations and technologies, high-level networking (including VIP events and mixers), an official opening ceremony, gala nights, and real opportunities for deals, partnerships, and policy talks. It’s a federal government-backed platform focused on sustainable energy, energy transition, investment, and Africa’s growing role in global energy – perfect for NGOs working on renewables, energy poverty, green initiatives, or advocacy. Great visibility, chances to connect with funders, influence policy, and explore grants or projects in clean energy. It’s a must for anyone serious about Nigeria’s and Africa’s energy future. See you in Abuja
RIO CARNIVAL 2026 (Brazil)
Dates: Friday 13 February – Saturday 21 February 2026
Location: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (main highlights at the Sambadrome Marquês de Sapucaí, plus streets all over the city)
Get ready for the world’s biggest party. Rio Carnival is pure energy, music, and colour! From 13 to 21 February 2026, the whole city explodes with samba, dancing, and joy before Lent starts. It’s a huge celebration mixing Portuguese, African, and Indigenous roots into one massive cultural party. The star of the show is the Sambadrome parades – watch top samba schools compete with incredible floats, amazing costumes, thousands of performers, and non-stop drumming. The main Special Group parades happen on Sunday 15, Monday 16, and Tuesday 17 February, with the Champions’ Parade on Saturday 21. Then there are the blocos – over 400 free street parties everywhere! These are fun, chaotic, open-to-all gatherings with live music, costumes, and crowds singing and dancing in neighbourhoods like Copacabana, Centro, and more. Millions come every year – come join the fun.
MARLBOROUGH WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL 2026 (New Zealand)
Date: Saturday 14 February 2026
Location: Renwick Domain, Uxbridge Street, Renwick, Marlborough, New Zealand
Come celebrate New Zealand’s longest-running wine and food festival right in the middle of beautiful Marlborough wine country. It’s all about tasting amazing local wines (especially those famous Sauvignon Blancs), enjoying delicious food from top chefs and producers, listening to great music, and soaking up the relaxed, fun atmosphere with friends. Meet the winemakers, try lots of different wines and bites, dance a bit, and just have a brilliant day out in the stunning landscapes. It’s the perfect way to experience what makes Marlborough special – great wine, tasty food, friendly people, and gorgeous views. Great for wine lovers, foodies, or anyone wanting a sunny summer day out.
LAGOS TECH FEST 2026 (Nigeria)
Dates: Monday 17 February – Tuesday 18 February 2026
Locations:
- Nigeria’s Tech Leadership Roundtable – Four Points by Sheraton, Victoria Island, Lagos (17 Feb)
- After Dark Hours (Industry Party) – The Garden, Ikoyi, Lagos (17 Feb)
- Main Event – Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos (18 Feb)
Now in its 6th year, Lagos Tech Fest is the biggest gathering for Nigeria’s tech world. It brings together top tech leaders from companies, fast-growing startups, investors, innovators, government people, global tech names, and anyone excited about tech in Nigeria and Africa. Over two days, you’ll find serious talks and roundtables on the future of tech, networking sessions to meet the right people, live pitch battles for startups, exhibitions showing the latest innovations, and a fun industry party to close out the first day. It’s the place where ideas turn into real opportunities, investments get discussed, and everyone works together to grow Nigeria’s tech ecosystem stronger. Perfect if you’re building a startup, investing, leading a tech team, or just passionate about where African tech is heading. Expect real conversations, new connections, and a clear look at the big opportunities ahead. See you in Lagos – come ready to connect and build the future.
PANAF SUMMIT 2026 (Ethiopia)
Date: February 6 – 8, 2026 Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The Pan-African Network for Artistic Freedom (PANAF) Summit 2026 starts from February 6-8. Organized by Selam in partnership with the Artist at Risk Connection, it convenes artists, activists, policymakers, funders, and cultural leaders to champion artistic expression amid digital and economic pressures. Building on the 2025 Zanzibar edition’s focus on civic engagement and movement building, this third gathering explores “Free to Create: Power, Pressure, and Possibilities within Digital and Economic Landscapes.” Expect keynote dialogues, workshops on censorship reform and artist residencies, networking sessions, and advocacy strategies to foster safe spaces for creativity. A vital platform for Africa’s cultural resilience, it amplifies diverse voices and inspires cross-continental collaboration.
WEAR YOUR SKIN (UK)
Date: February 21st, 2026
Location: TAC UK’s new North London studio
The Aesthetic Clinic UK (TAC UK) is set to host WEAR YOUR SKIN, an intimate, invite-only fashion pop-up and studio opening that explores the intersection of fashion, identity, and skin confidence.
Scheduled for Saturday, 21 February 2026, the experience will take place at TAC UK’s new North London studio and will bring together a curated audience of creatives, professionals, and culture-led individuals with a shared interest in fashion, beauty, and self-expression.
WEAR YOUR SKIN is built around a simple yet powerful concept: you don’t just wear clothes – you wear your skin. While fashion serves as the visual entry point, the experience encourages a deeper conversation around confidence, craftsmanship, and personal identity. The event is designed to feel calm and immersive, favoring a gallery-style presentation over a traditional runway format.
