Iwájú: A Futuristic Journey Through the Soul of Lagos, Nigeria to Walt Disney Studios
In the bustling heart of Lagos, Nigeria, a groundbreaking animated series has emerged, captivating audiences with its rich storytelling and powerful depiction of African culture. “Iwájú,” a collaboration between Kugali Media and Walt Disney Studios, has released energetic storytelling into the global entertainment landscape.
Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Mastery.
After nearly five years of continuous craftsmanship, the animation team at Kugali Media has brought their comic book series to life in a spectacular fashion, and they offer viewers around the world a glimpse into a futuristic Lagos.
What Is Lagos?
Lagos, the bustling metropolis situated in Nigeria, remains Africa’s economic prowess and the largest city on the continent. Serving as the primary financial nucleus not only for Lagos State but for Nigeria as a whole, the city exerts a profound influence across multiple sectors.
The city interweaves commerce, entertainment, technology, education, politics, tourism, art, and fashion, making it a dynamic epicenter of activity on the continent.
The bustling streets of Lagos hum with the energy of a city in constant motion, reflecting its status as a pivotal player in Africa’s economic landscape. As one of the world’s fastest-growing cities and urban areas, Lagos pulsates with innovation and opportunity.
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One fact that has remained unchanged about Lagos is that it draws ambitious individuals and businesses seeking to harness its immense potential for growth and development.
The Making of “Iwájú”
The journey of “Iwájú” began in 2017 when Hamid Ibrahim, along with his friends Tolu Olowofoyeku and Olufikayo “Ziki” Adeola, co-founded Kugali Media. Driven by a passion for sharing African stories with the world, the trio embarked on a mission to create high-quality content that would resonate with audiences globally.
Two years later, their vision crystallized into “Iwájú,” a coming-of-age story set in the futuristic city of Lagos.
Hamid Ibrahim, CEO of Kugali Media, reflects on the inception of “Iwájú” as a pivotal moment in the company’s journey. He shares, “Creating ‘Iwájú’ was a labor of love for us. We wanted to showcase the beauty and diversity of African culture while also telling a compelling story that transcends borders.”
Their efforts caught the attention of Walt Disney Animation Studios, leading to a groundbreaking collaboration that would bring “Iwájú” to audiences worldwide.
Embracing the Soul of Lagos
At the heart of “Iwájú” lies the vibrant spirit of Lagos, Nigeria. From its bustling markets to its colorful streets, the city serves as a backdrop for Tola and Kole’s epic journey. Tolu Olowofoyeku, the cultural consultant for Kugali Media and a Lagos native, played a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity of the series.
He recalls, “Lagos is more than just a setting; it’s a character in its own right. Our goal was to capture the essence of the city and portray it in a way that felt genuine to its residents.”
To achieve this authenticity, the team enlisted the talents of Nigerian voice actors Simisola Gbadamosi and Siji Soetan to voice the lead characters, Tola and Kole. Their performances breathe life into the dynamic duo, infusing the series with an unmistakably Nigerian flair. Of course, you don’t want to underestimate that.
Simisola Gbadamosi, who lends her voice to Tola, expresses her excitement about bringing the character to life. She shares, “Tola is a strong, resilient character, and I’m honored to be a part of her journey. I hope viewers see a bit of themselves in her.”
Pushing the African Story Forward
While “Iwájú” premiered on Disney+ to international acclaim, its impact extends far beyond the confines of the streaming platform. In Africa, where access to Disney+ is limited, the series found a home on the Disney Channel, reaching audiences across the continent. Hamid Ibrahim emphasizes the importance of representation and accessibility in African storytelling.
He remarks, “Our goal was never just to create a show; it was to inspire a generation of storytellers and creators. By making ‘Iwájú’ available to viewers in Africa, we hope to spark a renewed interest in African narratives.”
Christine Service, general manager for Walt Disney Company Africa, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing Disney’s commitment to authentic representation.
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She explains, “At Disney, we believe in the power of storytelling to shape culture and inspire change. ‘Iwájú’ is a prime example of how diverse voices can come together to create something truly special.”
The role of Nigerian artists in shaping a new global African narrative
Nigerian artists play a pivotal role in shaping a new global African narrative by infusing their work with authentic cultural perspectives and experiences.
Through their music, literature, film, and visual arts, Nigerian artists offer a window into the diverse fabrics of African identity. By doing so they help to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions while celebrating the richness of the African heritage.
With their bold creativity and unwavering dedication, these artists serve as ambassadors for African culture on the world stage, breaking barriers and forging connections across borders. Here are some of those popular Nigerian artists you might have heard about:
- 2 Face,
- Davido,
- Burna Boy,
- Wizkid,
- Ruger,
- Ayra Starr,
- Tiwa Savage,
- Adenkule Gold,
- Olamide,
- Yemi Alade,
- Kizz Daniel,
- Johnny Drille,
- Rema,
- And Asake among others.
Nigerian artists also serve as catalysts for social change, using their platforms to amplify marginalized voices and advocate for greater inclusivity and representation.
By sharing stories that reflect the realities of everyday life in Nigeria and beyond, these artists foster empathy and understanding, fostering a sense of shared humanity that transcends geographical boundaries.
Beyond the Series: Cultural Expansion
“Iwájú” is more than just a television series; it’s a cultural phenomenon that extends beyond the screen. Accompanying the show is a soundtrack featuring music by Nigerian composer Ré Olunuga, whose enchanting melodies transport listeners to the streets of Lagos.
Additionally, fans can immerse themselves in the world of “Iwájú” through the “Disney Iwájú: Rising Chef” game, which celebrates the rich culinary heritage of Nigeria.
Hamid Ibrahim envisions “Iwájú” as just the beginning of a larger movement to showcase African talent on the global stage. He shares, “Our goal is to continue pushing boundaries and challenging stereotypes. We want to see more African stories told and funded within Africa, and then shared with the world.”
What Other African Creators Can Learn From Iwájú Story
There is no doubt that the story of “Iwájú” offers valuable lessons for other African creators looking to make their mark on the global stage. Firstly, it underscores the importance of authenticity in storytelling.
By embracing their cultural roots and drawing inspiration from their own lived experiences, creators can craft narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide. “Iwájú” serves as a testament to the power of representation, showcasing the richness and diversity of African culture in a way that is both accessible and relatable.
Secondly, the success of “Iwájú” highlights the potential for collaboration and partnership in the creative industry and we in AClasses tend to sing the importance of this almost all the time.
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By joining forces with established entities like Walt Disney Studios, African creators can amplify their reach and impact, bringing their stories to audiences far beyond their own borders.
Through strategic partnerships and alliances, creators can leverage their unique perspectives and talents to create truly groundbreaking work that transcends cultural boundaries and inspires audiences around the globe.
Conclusion on Iwájú: A Futuristic Journey Through the Soul of Lagos, Nigeria to Walt Disney Studios
As “Iwájú” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it should be seen as a pillar of hope for African storytellers everywhere. With its vibrant characters, rich storytelling, and celebration of African culture, the series testifies to the power of representation and authenticity in entertainment.
In the words of Hamid Ibrahim, “This is just the beginning. The future of African storytelling is bright, and we’re only getting started.”
Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Mastery.
