‘Push and Start’  – Reaktor Energy Drink spotlights resilience in female keke drivers in new films

By Enitan Abdultawab

Reaktor Energy Drink, through its latest short films themed ‘Push and Start’, has highlighted the grit and ambition of Nigeria’s female keke (tricycle) drivers by telling stories of resilience and empowerment in the face of daily challenges.

The films, a fictional narrative and a non-fictional documentary, follow several women navigating the chaotic streets of Lagos, where each journey behind the wheel mirrors a larger struggle for survival, independence, and success. In one story, a young driver named Folake dreams of using her skills and hustle to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering abroad, seeing a street race competition as an opportunity to rewrite her story.

In another plotline, three women take control of their destinies by acquiring tricycles to help their husbands in financing the family and raising the kids. Both short films, produced in collaboration with EbonyLife Creative Academy and Planet Bottling Company, celebrate courage, determination, and the drive to succeed against all odds.

“For us, the documentary was a way to showcase the hustling spirit of Nigerians and the spirit that refuses to give up,” said Franklyn Eluagu, Reaktor Marketing Communication Manager. “Every day, Nigerians step out without knowing what the day brings, yet they move forward regardless. As an energy drink, Reaktor aims to be a partner in that journey, inspiring people to push their limits. That’s why we decided to tell these stories through both a documentary and a short film.”

Naji Awada, Reaktor Marketing Director, added, “Many Nigerians are struggling, especially given last year’s economic challenges. Each person is trying to find their way to put food on the table. As a brand, we feel it is our responsibility to support them. This is just the beginning ; we plan to create more documentaries and films that highlight people who inspire and motivate others, showing that anyone can push themselves to achieve their dreams.”

Producing such an ambitious project required careful planning and coordination even if their lengths are not more than 15 minutes each.

Bemigho Bella Nadia, producer of both films, explained, “We had a cast and crew of over 70 people, including actual Keke drivers who trained our actors. Managing that many people and resources was challenging, but it taught me a lot about handling large teams and complex productions.”

The films were brought to life by Zorah Callistus, director of the documentary. “From conception to completion, the process took about two weeks. That included pitching the story to the brand, selecting characters, and traveling to locations like Ikotun. It was an intense but rewarding journey,” she said.

At the heart of the fictional story is Folake, portrayed by Ebunoluwa Olarinwa, whose character embodies resilience and determination.

“Folake is unique, but she also represents every Nigerian willing to go the extra mile to achieve their dreams,” Ebun noted. “Learning to drive a Keke was exciting, and I’m grateful to the drivers who taught me everything from changing a clutch to handling the streets. Beyond the physical challenge, it was important to understand Folake’s background – how she pushes herself and makes a name for herself in a male-dominated space. Roles like this are vital for sharing empowering narratives.”

Through ‘Push and Start’, Reaktor Energy Drink continues its mission to celebrate and inspire the “social climbers” of Nigeria who are hardworking individuals striving for a better future. The company operates under Planet Bottling Company which takes pride in manufacturing diverse affordable quality beverages with a unique taste that cater to all. From refreshing carbonated soft drinks to functional energy drinks, Planet Bottling Company’s purpose is “thoughtfully crafted to provide a delightful beverage experience” to all enthusiastic consumers.

The films combine entertainment and empowerment, creating a vivid portrayal of courage, determination, and the drive to succeed against all odds.

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