David Oyelowo, the renowned actor known for his roles in films such as “Selma” and “The Lion King,” recently took on a different kind of role as a leader at the Creative Arts Summit in Nigeria. This exclusive event was held in Enugu, Nigeria, where Oyelowo hosted discussions on various creative arts disciplines, including acting, music, photography, AI, and digital art, at the Brightland Academy from January 29 to February 2, 2025. The summit was part of the David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship for Girls, in collaboration with the GEANCO Foundation, aiming to empower and uplift young women through the creative arts.
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During the summit, Oyelowo emphasised the importance of creative expression beyond traditional career paths, stating that the skills gained through engaging with the arts are versatile and applicable to various aspects of life. The scholarship provided full tuition, medical care, and emotional support to young women who are victims of terrorism and gender inequality in Nigeria. Many of these girls come from challenging backgrounds, facing issues such as sexual violence, political violence, and terrorism. Oyelowo’s initiative aims to break barriers and provide opportunities for these young women to access quality education and develop into well-rounded individuals.
The involvement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle added significant support to Oyelowo’s efforts in Nigeria. The royal couple, during their visit to the country in May 2024, participated in a Mental Health Summit hosted by the GEANCO Foundation, solidifying their partnership with the organisation through their Archewell Foundation. Afam Onyema, the CEO of the GEANCO Foundation, highlighted the positive impact of Meghan and Harry’s involvement, raising awareness and bringing attention to the foundation’s work, leading to increased support and engagement from the public.
Approximately 50 young women and girls participated in the Creative Arts Summit, where they had the opportunity to explore and engage in various creative activities under the guidance of Oyelowo, his wife Jessica Oyelowo, and other industry professionals. The summit aimed to showcase the potential of creative arts in shaping not only career paths but also life skills such as effective communication and presentation. Oyelowo expressed his belief in the creative talents of Nigeria, highlighting the country’s contributions to music, fashion, literature, and film, particularly in Nollywood, one of the largest film industries globally.
The summit provided a platform for the young women to unleash their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds. Oyelowo stressed the importance of empowering women in Nigeria, acknowledging the untapped potential and resources within the nation. By focusing on education and skill development through the arts, Oyelowo’s initiative aims to broaden the horizons of these young women and equip them with tools for personal and professional growth. The summit also featured guest speakers such as actress and musician Folake Olowofoyeku, who shared her insights and experiences with the participants, further enriching their learning experience.
As the summit concluded, Oyelowo and the GEANCO Foundation affirmed their commitment to continue supporting the young women in Nigeria, with ongoing initiatives focused on mental health and menstrual health. The collaborative efforts of Oyelowo, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle symbolize a collective dedication to creating positive change and addressing systemic inequities through education and empowerment. The impact of such initiatives extends beyond the summit, laying the foundation for a brighter and more inclusive future for the young women of Nigeria.