The 16th edition of the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE) is set to hold across two continents, in Abeokuta and London on July 13 and July 25-25, 2025, respectively.
This year’s programme, which explores youth leadership and post-colonial expression, continues its legacy as a platform for cultural dialogue, artistic innovation, and intellectual engagement inspired by the enduring influence of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka.
Themed “Decolonisation of Nigerian Youth: Agenda for Our Future Leadership,” the 2025 programme reflects on the dynamics of postcolonial identity and interrogates how young Africans can reclaim agency and reimagine leadership in ways that honour cultural roots while engaging global realities.
Cross-Continental Programming
In Abeokuta, Nigeria.
The celebration in Abeokuta on July 13 will include:
– A Youth Talent Showcase (DYOT – Do Your Own Thing), featuring music, dance, spoken word, indigenous drama, and visual storytelling by young performers.
– A Female Talking Drummers Showcase, spotlighting young girls exploring leadership and expression through traditional rhythms.
– Cultural exhibitions, mentorship, and a celebratory gathering in honour of Professor Soyinka’s 91st birthday.
– The Africa Youth Literature, Communication and Arts Workshop, co-led by Ayo Aladekomo and Abolore Sobayo, fosters creative learning and cultural exchange among young African participants.
In London, events will be held on July 24 and 25 in partnership with The Africa Centre.
Programming includes:
– A high-level Advocacy Session titled:
“The Artist as Postcolonial Agent: Canvas of Leadership Nuances”
This dialogue will explore the artist’s role in shaping leadership narratives and sociopolitical discourse in contemporary African societies.
– Keynote speakers include:
- Professor Wilson Mano
- Dr. Vanessa Iwowo
– Anchors:
- Chief Olu Alake, CEO, The Africa Centre
- Dr. Samantha Iwowo, Bournemouth University
– A vibrant Cultural Night celebrating African creativity through live music, performance, and visual art. Featured creatives include:
- Kayefi – Singer and Afro-folk performer
- Aduke – Neo-soul and African fusion artist
- Segun Akinduro – Visual artist and performer
- Abolore Sobayo – Multidisciplinary artist and cultural advocate
- Eyinju Eledumare – Performance poet and storyteller
Honouring a Global Legacy
WSICE 2025 is produced by ZMirage Multimedia Company, under the leadership of Dr. Olateju Kareem (Executive Producer), and co-executive producers Prof. Segun Ojewuyi and Dr. Kareem, in collaboration with national and international cultural institutions.
The Nigeria-based production is led by:
- Mr. Jahman Anikulapo – Cultural Consultant & Head of Communications
- Dr. Tunde Awosanmi – Creative Director
- Prof. Razinat Muhammed – Head of Adjudication
- Mrs. Linda Olowokere – Youth Producer
- Ayo Aladekomo and Joy Nweye – Associate Producers
- Lilian Amah-Aluko – Production Lead
Across all activities, WSICE continues to honour Professor Soyinka’s life work by championing youth empowerment, cultural pride, and critical thought. As Africa and the global African diaspora navigate a complex and changing world, WSICE 2025 offers a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of art, heritage, and leadership rooted in truth and integrity.
Dr. Olateju Kareem, Executive Producer and MD/CEO of ZMirage Multimedia Company Ltd, reaffirmed the programme’s mission thus:
“As culture continues to be our pride, let a better understanding of each other’s cultures yield respect and tolerance, leading to unity and the advancement of our shared humanity.”
Dr. Kareem also expressed heartfelt appreciation for Professor Wole Soyinka:
“We deeply thank Professor Soyinka for lending not just his name to this initiative, but for personally receiving youth participants each year at his home, and for attending both the Nigerian and UK editions of the programme. His presence at our sessions—from Abeokuta to The Africa Centre in London—reinforces his enduring role as mentor to generations of young thinkers, writers, and artists.”
Credit: The News
