Disney’s Iwájú, the animated series created in conjunction with Nigerian-based Kugali Media, has earned three nominations at the Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, a significant moment for African animation.
The Children’s and Family Emmy Awards is an award ceremony dedicated to recognizing excellence in children’s and family television programming. It is organized by the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) and was introduced in 2022.
Iwájú which premiered on Disney+ on February 28, 2024, Iwájú is set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria, and follows the story of Tola, a young girl from an affluent background, and her best friend Kole, a self-taught tech expert. The series explores themes of class divide, ambition, and innovation, blending traditional Yoruba culture with Afrofuturism.
The series has been nominated for Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series, a category that recognizes excellence in storytelling and animation. Young Nigerian actress Simisola Gbadamosi, who voices the lead character Tola, also secured a nomination for Outstanding Younger Voice Performer in an Animated or Preschool Animated Program. In addition, director Olufikayo Ziki Adeola has been nominated for Outstanding Directing for an Animated Program for his work on the episode Kole, a recognition of his creative vision and contribution to the series.
The Children’s and Family Emmy Awards ceremony is set to take place on March 15, 2025, in Los Angeles, California, where Iwájú will compete among other top animated productions.
