The Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange (WSICE) returns this July for its 16th edition, continuing its legacy as a vital platform for cultural dialogue, artistic innovation, and intellectual engagement, all inspired by the enduring influence of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka.

This year’s theme, “Decolonisation of Nigerian Youth: Agenda for Our Future Leadership,” sees the programme unfold across two continents—Nigeria and the United Kingdom—with events scheduled for 13 July in Abeokuta and 24–25 July in London.

The 2025 edition reflects on the complexities of postcolonial identity, examining how young Africans can reclaim agency and reimagine leadership that honours cultural heritage while navigating global realities.

Cross-Continental Programming

In Abeokuta, Nigeria, celebrations on 13 July will feature:

– A Youth Talent Showcase (DYOT – Do Your Own Thing) with 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 sessions, and a celebratory gathering marking Professor Soyinka’s 91st birthday.
– The Africa Youth Literature, Communication and Arts Workshop, co-led by Ayo Aladekomo and Abolore Sobayo, designed to foster creative learning and cross-cultural dialogue among young African participants.

In London, events take place on 24 and 25 July in partnership with The Africa Centre. The programme includes:

– A high-level Advocacy Session titled:
“The Artist as Postcolonial Agent: Canvas of Leadership Nuances”
This session explores the artist’s role in shaping leadership narratives and socio-political discourse in contemporary African societies.

– Keynote speakers:
• Professor Wilson Mano
• Dr Vanessa Iwowo

– Anchors:
• Chief Olu Alake, CEO, The Africa Centre
• Dr Samantha Iwowo, Bournemouth University

– A lively Cultural Night showcasing African creativity through live music, performance, and visual art. Featured creatives include:
• Kayefi – Afro-folk singer and 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.

WSICE 2025 is produced by ZMirage Multimedia Company, led by Dr Olateju Kareem (Executive Producer), alongside co-executive producers Prof Segun Ojewuyi and Dr Kareem, in collaboration with both national and international cultural institutions.

The Nigerian arm of the 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

WSICE continues to champion youth empowerment, cultural pride, and critical thinking. As Africa and the global African diaspora navigate an ever-evolving world, WSICE 2025 offers a timely reminder of the enduring power of art, heritage, and principled leadership.

Dr Olateju Kareem, Executive Producer and MD/CEO of ZMirage Multimedia Company Ltd—the founding body of WSICE—reaffirmed the mission of the initiative:

“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 offered deep gratitude to 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.”