The Disney+ animated series Iwájú, co-produced by Nigerian animation company Kugali Media and Disney, has been nominated for three Emmy Awards at the 3rd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards.
The series’ lead voice actor, Simisola Gbadamosi, was nominated for the Young Voice Actor Award in a Preschool, Child, or Youth Program. Okay Africa reports that the series was also nominated for Best Animated Series for Children or Young Teens and Best Director for an Animated Series for episode 3, “Call.”
Disney Animation posted on Instagram, “Congratulations to the cast and crew of #Iwaju on their three Children’s and Family Emmy® nominations, including Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series. #Emmy Award for Young Voice Actor in an Animated Series.
Hamid Ibrahim, co-founder of African entertainment company Kgali Media, commented: I feel humbled. ”
Ibrahim co-founded Kugali Media after graduating from the University of Hertfordshire in 2017 with a study in 3D animation and visual effects. Born in Uganda, he worked on feature films such as the remake of The Lion King before co-founding a company that tells stories about African culture.
After the series’ release in February 2024, Iwaju said he wanted to “give something back to the rest of the world and the first idea that came to mind was to tell the story of Africa.” It can be done and Iwaju will do it,” he told the BBC.
As the first African original animated series by Walt Disney Animation Studios since its founding in 1923, these nominations not only represent a pan-African animation company, but also a number of Nigerian-inspired actors in key roles. This is also historic for a story that uses Nigerian actors.
The 2024 animated drama series depicts the lives of Tora and Cole, who meet in a futuristic Lagos, despite their vastly different backgrounds. Gbadamosi plays Tola, who lives on the luxurious island of Lagos, while Siji Soetan plays Cole, a self-taught specialist. Together, they embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery and secrets.
Lala Akindoju, the series’ casting director, said she was excited about the nomination, saying: “It’s great to see the work you’ve done being recognized globally like this.” . I am especially proud of Simisora from Stargirl and am so honored to have cast her in this role!!”
She reiterated her dedication to “telling our stories and showcasing our talents to audiences around the world, one work at a time.”
The Children’s & Family Emmy Awards recognize and recognize the most innovative and groundbreaking achievements in the children’s entertainment industry.
Last year’s best projects included shows like Zootopia, I Am Groot, and Kung Fu Panda: Dragon Knight.
The awards ceremony is scheduled to be held in Los Angeles on March 25, 2025.
