The Disney+ animated series Iwájú, co-created by Nigerian animation studio Kugali Media and Disney, has received three prestigious nominations at the upcoming third Children’s and Family Emmy Awards. This groundbreaking series, inspired by Nigeria and its rich culture, is a testament to the rising prominence of African storytelling on the global stage.
Lead voice actor Simisola Gbadamosi has been nominated in the category of Younger Voice Performer in a Preschool, Children’s, or Young Teen Program. The series is also contending for two additional awards: Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series and Directing for an Animated Series for its third episode, Kole.
Set in a futuristic Lagos, Iwájú tells the story of Tola and Kole, two characters from starkly different worlds whose paths cross in unexpected ways. Tola, voiced by Gbadamosi, is a young girl from the affluent Lagos Island, while Kole, portrayed by Siji Soetan, is a self-taught tech prodigy. Together, they embark on a thrilling adventure of secrets and self-discovery, navigating societal contrasts and embracing innovation.
Critics have lauded Iwájú for its fresh perspective. In a glowing four-star review, The Guardian’s Leila Latif praised the series, describing it as “an unashamedly optimistic look at Nigeria’s future and a celebration of the talents of the diaspora.” Latif further noted how the show “illuminates parts of Nigerian identity that are rarely celebrated on a global stage.”
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The Children’s and Family Emmy Awards highlight exceptional creativity in children’s entertainment. Scheduled for March 25, 2025, in Los Angeles, the ceremony will celebrate Iwájú alongside other acclaimed productions. Previous winners include projects like Zootopia, I Am Groot, and Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight.
Lala Akindoju, the casting director for Iwájú, expressed her excitement over the nominations. “It’s such a beautiful thing to see a production you worked on receive this kind of global recognition. I am particularly proud of star girl Simisola and honored to have cast her in this role!” Akindoju emphasized her dedication to amplifying African stories, stating, “This is just the beginning of showcasing our talent and telling our stories to a global audience, one production at a time.”
In addition to Gbadamosi and Soetan, the series features the voices of notable Nigerian actors such as Femi Branch and Bisola Aiyeola. With its vibrant storytelling and authentic representation, Iwájú is a shining beacon of African creativity, now celebrated on one of the world’s biggest stages
