David Oyelowo, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle Empower Nigerian Girls Through Creative Arts

In an inspiring collaboration, celebrated British-Nigerian actor David Oyelowo, alongside Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Archewell Foundation, is using creative arts to empower young women in Nigeria. Oyelowo, renowned for his roles in Selma and Lawmen: Bass Reeves, recently hosted a groundbreaking creative arts summit at Brightland Academy in Enugu, Nigeria, through his David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship for Girls in partnership with the GEANCO Foundation.

From January 29 to February 2, Oyelowo and his wife, actress-producer Jessica Oyelowo, led interactive discussions on acting, music, photography, AI, digital art, and performance. More than just a creative outlet, the summit aimed to equip young women with essential life skills applicable beyond the arts.

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“What I'm really trying to instill in them is that engaging with the creative arts doesn't mean you're gonna go on to be an actor or a photographer or a writer or a fashion designer,” Oyelowo told PEOPLE. “But it gives you a skill set that is applicable to so many avenues in life.”

Education and Empowerment Against All Odds

The David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship provides full tuition, medical care, and emotional support to young Nigerian girls facing gender inequality, terrorism, and financial hardships.

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"Many of these girls are from financially challenged situations," Oyelowo shared. "Sometimes there's sexual violence, sometimes it's political violence, and sometimes they've been dealing with terrorism in their area. They are all dealing with issues and circumstances that really challenge the notion of them being well-educated, well-rounded, and having access to the kind of education that will make them well-rounded young women."

By providing a safe space for learning and creative expression, the initiative aims to dismantle systemic barriers and create opportunities for young women to thrive.

The Sussexes' Continued Commitment to Nigerian Youth

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s involvement with the GEANCO Foundation has significantly amplified its reach. During their visit to Nigeria in May 2024, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex participated in a Mental Health Summit hosted by GEANCO, deepening their partnership. Afam Onyema, CEO of the foundation, highlighted the impact of their support.

"We're humbled by the spotlight and the attention [it brought]," Onyema told PEOPLE. "So many people have reached out to learn more about GEANCO. They've asked how they can help and how they can be involved. Just having our profile raised in that way and our work affirmed in that way has been terrific."

This ongoing commitment extends beyond summits, with long-term initiatives focused on menstrual health, mental well-being, and educational support for young Nigerian women.

Nigeria’s Creative Industry: A Catalyst for Change

Oyelowo emphasized Nigeria’s vibrant creative landscape, from Afrobeats to Nollywood, as a powerful tool for empowerment. However, he acknowledged the cultural pressure to prioritize traditional academic careers over artistic pursuits.

“Nigeria is such a creative country. It's at the forefront of music with Afrobeats, fashion, literature, and one of the biggest film industries in the world in terms of Nollywood. And yet, traditionally, our parents, from an aspirational point of view, are always pointing us towards academia,” he observed.

Oyelowo’s goal is to shift the narrative, demonstrating that creative expression is not only a viable career path but also an essential skill set for personal and professional development.

A Life-Changing Initiative for Young Women

Approximately 50 young women participated in the recent leadership summit, including alumni of the scholarship program. Actress-musician Folake Olowofoyeku (Bob Loves Abishola, Mufasa: The Lion King, she plays Amara, one of Kiros' sisters) also joined the event, reinforcing the message that creative expression can lead to greater confidence and opportunities.

"Seeing the girls light up as they get to dance and draw and act and then learning from one of the best there is—both in terms of words, general words of insight and wisdom," Onyema reflected. "David's like getting his hands dirty very practically about certain shots and moving and trying this and that."

Oyelowo remains optimistic about the program’s impact:

“This is about opening the aperture of possibility for them in order for them to go from incredibly challenged circumstances to situations whereby the world is essentially their oyster.”

This initiative is a reminder that change starts with action. Nollywood Spotlight encourages its readers to support GEANCO Foundation’s mission, amplify the voices of these young women, and recognize the power of creative arts in shaping lives.

Stay tuned for more Nollywood news and exclusive updates on impactful initiatives like this one. Don't forget to share this article and bookmark Nollywood Spotlight for more inspiring stories about Africa’s thriving entertainment industry!