Nigerian actress Simisola Gbadamosi has made history as the youngest Nigerian to receive an Emmy nomination.
At just 13 years old, she has been nominated in the ‘Outstanding Younger Voice Performer’ category at the 3rd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards for her role as Tola Martins in the Disney+ animated series Iwájú.
Her nomination is a significant milestone for Nigeria’s entertainment industry, which continues to gain global recognition. Iwájú, a six-episode series that premiered on February 28, 2024, follows Tola, a girl from a wealthy island in a futuristic Lagos, and her friend Kole, a self-taught tech genius.
A collaboration between Disney Animation and Kugali Media, the series blends Nigerian culture with compelling storytelling while addressing themes of inequality.
Gbadamosi’s portrayal of Tola has been praised for its emotional depth and authenticity, making her a relatable and inspiring character.
In addition to her nomination, Iwájú has received two more nods for ‘Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series’ and ‘Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series.’
Reacting to the news, Gbadamosi expressed her excitement, saying, “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.”
