Children’s Spotlight of the Week: Simisola Gbadamosi – A Rising Star Making History

At just 13 years old, Simisola Gbadamosi has made history as the youngest Nigerian to be nominated for an Emmy Award. She has been nominated in the category of Outstanding Younger Voice Performer in a Preschool, Children’s, or Young Teen Program at the 3rd Children’s & Family Emmy Awards for her role as Tola Martins in the Disney+ animated series Iwájú.

This nomination is a groundbreaking moment for African animation and storytelling. Iwájú, a six-episode miniseries set in a futuristic Lagos, was created through a first-of-its-kind partnership between Disney Animation and Nigerian studio Kugali Media. The show bravely explores socioeconomic disparities, family dynamics, and the power of innovation, all while embracing African culture and storytelling.

Simisola’s nomination is one of three Emmy nods for Iwájú, which has also been recognized in the categories of Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series and Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series.

Speaking on this milestone, Simisola shared:
“Being nominated for this Emmy is truly an honor. I’m so grateful to be recognized alongside such incredible talent, whom I’ve actually watched, and to be part of a project that means so much. This moment is a dream (that I didn’t know I had) come true!”

Her performance as Tola has resonated deeply with audiences, capturing the essence of a young girl navigating a divided society with curiosity and courage.

Beyond the individual nomination, Iwájú marks another historic achievement, it is the first Nigerian television show to ever be nominated for the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards.

Simisola’s journey is a highlights the power of African storytelling and the bright future of young talents breaking barriers on the global stage. We celebrate her achievement and look forward to the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards ceremony on March 15 in Los Angeles, California.

Congratulations, Simisola! You are an inspiration to young African creatives everywhere.