At just 13 years old, Simisola Gbadamosi has etched her name in history as the youngest Nigerian to receive an Emmy nomination. Her voice performance as Tola in Iwájú, an animated miniseries set in a futuristic Lagos, has earned her a spot in the “Outstanding Younger Voice Performer in a Preschool, Children’s, or Young Teen Program” category at the prestigious Children’s and Family Emmy Awards.
Reflecting on the unexpected honor, Simisola expressed her excitement and gratitude.
“Being nominated for this Emmy is truly an honor. I’m so grateful to be recognized alongside such incredible talent—many of whom I’ve admired for years. This moment is a dream come true, even one I didn’t know I had.”
Simisola’s nomination is part of a larger milestone for Iwájú, which has also been recognized in two other categories: “Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series” and “Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series.”This marks a groundbreaking moment for Nigerian storytelling, as Iwájú is the first-ever Nigerian production to receive nominations at the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards.
Also, read: Tinubu: Fuel Subsidy Removal Secures Future for Unborn Generations In Nigeria
Premiering on February 28, 2024, Iwájú tells the compelling story of Tola, a young girl from Lagos’ affluent island, and her best friend Kole, a self-taught tech genius from the mainland. The show explores themes of class, ambition, and the complexities of a rapidly evolving world through a uniquely African lens.
The animated series, a product of Kugali Media, showcases African excellence both in front of and behind the scenes. Directed by Nigerian filmmaker Olufikayo Ziki Adeola, with a musical score composed by Ré Olunuga, Iwájú stands as a testament to the rich storytelling and creative potential within the African continent.
Kugali Media, co-founded by Adeola, Tolu Olowofoyeku (Nigeria), and Hamid Ibrahim (Uganda), has long been dedicated to bringing African narratives to a global audience. With this nomination, the company’s vision of telling authentic African stories on an international stage is becoming a reality.
Iwájú is currently streaming on Disney+ and airing on DStv Channel 303, bringing its captivating story to audiences worldwide.
The Children’s and Family Emmy Awards ceremony is set to take place on March 15 in Los Angeles, California, where the world will watch to see if Simisola Gbadamosi and Iwájú can bring home these historic wins.
