Meet The 2021 Authors & Speakers
Adeola Eze
Adeola Eze works with children to help develop and enhance children's reading and writing skills. She runs a social enterprise organisation, Jordan Hill Creative Writing & Reading Workshop for Children and organises workshop for children from time to time. Through her vision and the organisation's efforts, she boasts of publishing, promoting and celebrating over thirty young Nigerian authors, being the first publishing firm to promote child authors in Nigeria. In the same vein, as a prolific facilitator, she offers pieces of training for teachers in Creative Writing and other related topic areas to enhance teachers' proficiency and productivity in the delivery of their educational services and promoting the literary in Nigeria. Adeola Eze has been featured in numerous newsprint, radio and TV interviews bordering literature and the youths.
Adeola Eze won the National APEN award for English Teacher of the Year, 2014 and the Greensprings Elementary School Outstanding Teacher of the Year, 2014.
She is presently the Learning Director at Discovery House Montessori School, Lekki.
Adeola is married to her soul-mate, and the marriage is blessed with three lovely children, two of whom are graduates and working in the media industry.
I will be speaking on
10 Golden Rules Of Writing
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 7-8pm
Alex Unusual
Alex Amuchechukwu Asogwa is a writer, model, dancer, creative director, content creator, and brand influencer. Popularly known as Alex Unusual, her on-screen debut occurred when she first appeared on a baby food advert at just 6-months old. Alex would later venture into many other creative activities, including the Miss Eastern Nigeria pageant which she won in 2016 as an undergraduate at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and also participated in the 2018 Big Brother Naija reality TV show where she emerged to continental reckoning and fame as third runner-up and most fun housemate. Alex recently made the bold move to debut her first film production titled Nucleus.
I will be the festival host
Amy Abu
Amy Abu as always found an escape in writing; her vivid and intensely creative imagination could only be expressed through a pen on paper; often times in words and images at times.
She wrote her first story at the tender age of 6, her passion for writing has produced several unpublished manuscripts, aged 8 years old, she eventually published her debut book, titled ‘Iremide, The Singing sensation’ a captivating and inspiring story about an unknown girl who is determined to live her dreams, a story loosely based on Amy’s relentless pursuit of her flamboyant dreams. As a budding writer and highly academic scholar, Amy’s creativity spans across different genres, she spends her spare time writing, playing dress up, singing and playing the piano.
Amy is set to publish her second book later this year.
I will be reading my book
Iremide The Singing Sensation
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 7-8pm
Awele Chukwudi-Okonkwo
Awele Chukwudi-Okonkwo is currently in Year 3. She is an interesting child, very outspoken and caring, she loves to read and make presentations on different subject matters.
She loves to sing, bake and swim. She has won numerous awards in her school and is always picked for a presentation. She was once tagged "Popular Jingo" in her preschool because she always had a smile for everyone.
She is a doting big sister to her only brother. Above all she is an amazing daughter to Daddy and Mummy....She is Mummy’s best friend.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 11am-12pm
Ayo Oyeku
Ayo Oyeku is a writer of prose, poetry and screenplay. He made an early mark in 2004, when his first children's book, First among Equals, was selected by World Bank for distribution across schools and libraries in the country. In 2015, his young-adult novel, Tears of the Lonely, won the Ezenwa Ohaeto Prize for Fiction, by the Society of Young Nigerian Writers. In 2016, his poem, Reeds on the Rivers, was nominated for the Pushcart Prize. In 2018, he emerged as one of the multiple winners of the Golden Baobab Prize. In 2019, he won the ANA prize for Children's literature for his book, Mafoya and the Finish Line. He recently published his seventh children's book, The Legend of Ataoja. Ayo Oyeku is a member of Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). Asides writing, he loves traveling and telling stories.
I will be sharing a story from
The Legend Of Ataoja
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 8-9am
Baroness Lola Young
After an extensive career in acting, Lola became a professor of Cultural Studies, a writer, broadcaster and cultural critic.
She has been an independent Crossbench member of the House of Lords since 2004, after serving as Head of Culture at the Greater London Authority for two years.
Since 2018, Lola has been Co-Chair of the Foundation for Future London. She was appointed Chancellor of the University of Nottingham, and a Non-Executive Director of Bloomsbury Publishing in 2020.
I will be doing a book reading of
Tobi Learns To Swim
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 10-11am
Bolanle Ogunnaike
My name is Bolanle and I am the author of the Yoruba Children's book titled- Tani Mo Jé? An Interior Architect and Designer by profession, with great passion for community development and culture preservation. I am particular about connecting the younger generation to their Nigerian heritage by reading fun and relatable story and activity books through a modern and creative lens, which is the true representation of today's Nigeria.
I will be speaking on
Who Am I?
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 12-1pm
Bowale Agboade
Bowale is a serial entrepreneur with a deep passion for empowering female entrepreneurs with skills and knowledge to help them succeed in life and business.
She is the Founder of Entrepreneur Girl Africa, a thriving community of African business women.
She is also the founder of Kid Entrepreneurs , Nigeria's foremost entrepreneurship academy for kids aged 5 to 15 years with presence in primary schools and weekly segments in The Guardian Newspaper.
Bowale's work in Entrepreneurship has earned her multiple awards including Inspiration Award by Symbol of Hope foundation in Association with United Nations, British Council Award for Business Acceleration, and so on. and Media features by Business Day, Arise Tv, Wazobia TV, Guardian Newspaper etc
She is a Mentor and Associate Member of WIMBIZ and also serves as Director on the board of several companies.
Bowale is a Lawyer by profession , she is Married to Deji and they have 3 amazing kids.
I will be speaking on
How To Develop Entrepreneurial Streak In Your Children
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 4-5pm
Carrol Nelson
Carrol is a published author of children’s books, with an extensive background in Personal Development Coaching and Mentoring as well as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist.
Her passion for writing was reignited whilst she was working with disadvantaged children and young people in the care system. Her books captivates children’s imagination whilst providing cultural diversity in an enchanting way. So you can give children access to books you wish you had as a child!
She wishes for children and young people to feel empowered to pursue their dreams and transform their lives.
I will be speaking on
I Can Be Great!
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 5-6pm
Chigozie Mbadugha
Chigozie Anuli Mbadugha is a Nigerian writer and ophthalmologist. Chigozie wrote her first unpublished novel at the age of six. The first edition of her debut publication - Beyond the Trial was awarded the Samuel Ajayi Crowther prize in 2017. She has written six children and young adult books with the help of her hyperactive muses. When Chigozie is not performing eye surgeries, she tries to write “eye-popping” fiction, listen to music, and spend quality time with her family.
I will be speaking on
Overcoming Peer Pressure
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 4-5pm
Chinyere Ifediora
Chinyere Evelyn Ifediora is a lawyer and author. She is an enthusiast of early childhood development and supports community causes for children's well-being.
I will be doing a book reading of
Adventures Of Mister Sweet Potato
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 4-5pm
Chioma Momah
Chioma Momah is a lawyer, writer and inspirational /parenting blogger.
This mother of four is the author of the children's books "First day at the Big School" and "Fun Day at the Museum" as well as the Goals, Gratitude and Growth Journal. Chioma is also the founder of Let's Encourage A Reading Nation" (L.E.A.R.N) which is aimed at improving literacy among children.
She holds an L.L.B from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria, as well as an MBA from Anglia Ruskin University and an MPA from the University of Exeter (both in the UK). She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.
Chioma also enjoys speaking on parenting, gender issues and literacy.
Follow her on Facebook at Chiomah's Blog, Instagram @chiomahmomah and read her posts on www.chiomah.net.
I will be speaking on
Podcasting For Authors
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 5-6pm
Coco Anetor-Sokei
Coco is a media professional who is passionate about telling stories through visual media, and skilled at leveraging digital communities to boost brand awareness, and build loyalty. When she isn't working, she is binging on Netflix shows while wolfing down dried fruits, or getting life and Indian drama updates from her daughter.
I will be speaking on
The Dangers Of Self Editing
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 4-5pm
Craig Heaton
Craig Heaton has over 25 years educational experience, as a schoolteacher and Head Teacher. During the course of his career he has taught across the educational age range in seven different schools. He was appointed to his first headship position at the age of 30 and has held successful headship positions in a further five schools.
Mr. Heaton's headships have been diverse in nature ranging from a small UK inner city primary school to a 650 strong international school in South East Asia! Currently, he is the HeadTeacher of St. Saviour's School Ikoyi in Lagos, Nigeria. Additionally, he sits on the Council of British International Schools (COBIS) Board and is a qualified School inspector.
He believes every child has the potential to excel through the development of individual talents and it is the responsibility of educators to create the optimum learning environment for children to succeed.
I will be speaking on
Raising Independent And Resilient Learners
Friday July 2, 2021 — 3-4pm
Davidsyn
Davidsyn is an MC, standup Comedian, Actor and Content creator. He holds a bachelor's degree in Entrepreneurial and Business Management from the prestigious National Open University.
Comedy For Kids
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Deborah Ahenkorah
Growing up in Accra, Ghana, as a young girl who read voraciously, Deborah Ahenkorah Osei-Agyekum often wondered why the storybook characters she loved did not look like her. Starting as a teenager, she has built and led several organizations all of whose goals have been to give children across Africa culturally-relevant books to fall in love with. Her publishing house, African Bureau Stories, is committed to providing increased opportunities for African writers and illustrators to publish locally and internationally. Deborah also established the Golden Baobab Prize, the prestigious literary award which over the past ten years has discovered and supported children's book authors and illustrators across Africa.
Deborah has championed and advocated for the African children’s literature industry from grassroots levels to large global stages such as the World Economic Forum. She is an award-winning entrepreneur and her work has been celebrated by international organizations such as Echoing Green, the Aspen Institute and the Grinnell Prize for Social Justice.
She is a recipient of the 2019 Global Pluralism Award given by His Highness the Aga Khan and the government of Canada recognizing her efforts to promote African children's literature as a way to build a more inclusive world. Deborah is a graduate of Bryn Mawr College and lives in Accra with her husband and little boy.
I will be speaking on
Write Like A Pro! & Why You Need A Literary Agent
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 10am-2pm
Dorcas Ikya
Hi! My name is Dorcas Ikya. You can call me the bookfairy, the booklady, reading specialist, book whisperer!
My love of literacy started at an early age. I grew in a bok loving home. I'm also a trained educator with 17 years of work experience as a school teacher and head of school.
My work experience and passion for books has helped me start up and run this amazing bookstore called Tabithas Kids. We are fun children's book and giftstore. Offering children a range of books and literacy activities that help them fall in love with books and reading!
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 11am-12pm
Edirin Metseagharun
Edirin Metseagharun is a teacher, public speaker, and a counselor with strong passion for children’s health and fitness. She is a certified Health Coach and has a degree in Educational Management with bias for Primary Education.
She also has a certificate in Diet, Nutrition and Exercise for children. She is the founder and coordinator of Passion for Healthy Kids Initiative (PHKI), a non-governmental organization that addresses childhood undernourishment, obesity prevention and helping children to eat right and be active every day.
Since 2011, PKHI has been working with children across Nigeria with the message of Healthy Kids Learn Better. She is also in the frontline advocacy for healthy nutrition for children in Nigeria schools. She is married and blessed with three adorable children. She is based in Lagos.
She is the author of three books in the Ola & Bisi book series.
I will be speaking on
Super Fit Me!
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 1-2pm
Elizabeth Okeyele
Okeyele Elizabeth is a graduate of textile technology from yaba college of technology and a certified knitting teacher recognized by the craft yarn council of america. Elizabeth is the author of knitting ABC Book, 22 inspired patterns for the young to explore and the founder of tunnize creation. In 2019, her knitting group was featured in the best UK knitting magazine, titled ‘lets knit“, and in the year 2020, she was featured in BBC pidgin and also instructor spotlight in CraftYarnCouncil, US.
I will be speaking on
Crafty Creations: Knitting 101
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 6-7pm
Enajite Efemuaye
Enajite is an editor, freelance writer and former graphic artist. She gets paid to read: a fact that does not cease to amaze her. She tweets about dodo and other randomness from @jyte12 and will edit your work for a reasonable fee.
I will be discussing
The Importance Of African Children's Books Locally And Globally-1
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 2-3pm
Farida Ladipo-Ajayi
Farida is a social impact entrepreneur advocating for literacy in Nigeria. She is the founder and literacy leader at The Bookworm Cafe. The Bookworm Cafe is a children's literary consultancy that owns a children's library/bookstore and facilitates several impactful literacy programs for improving literacy outcomes for Nigerian children.
Farida is passionate about children's literature especially literature that are mirrors for African children. She is also passionate about literacy and loves helping educators and parents become aware of its importance.
She is a Tony Elumelu entrepreneur and a Cherie Blair mentee.
I will be discussing
The Importance Of African Children's Books Locally And Globally-2
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 2-3pm
Gbemi Shasore
is the Executive Publisher of Quramo Publishing Limited, an indigenous media company dedicated to producing quality content for its diverse audience. In a bid to contributing to the publishing industry, Gbemi Shasore established the Quramo Writers’ Prize, which honours new, emerging and unpublished writers, and Qfest (a festival of words), which encourages human interaction, literary expression and creative growth.
Gbemi Shasore has authored several books, which include In Her Own Right, Our Money Our People and The Money People, published by Quramo Publishing Limited.
As a creative and a longtime patron of the arts, in 2010, she conceived and produced the epic and well-received stage play Ajai – The Boy Slave and has produced other stage productions to her credit since then: Ajai – The Boy Slave 2; A Past Came Calling and The Write to Freedom. She is also the Chief Executive Officer of Quramo Productions and the executive producer of the movie titled Journey of an African Colony, currently on Netflix.
As an advocate for the girl-child/women empowerment, Gbemi Shasore is an ambassador of The Olave Baden-Powell Society(OB-PS), which supports girls and young women to develop their full potential as leaders and active citizens of the world. She is also a member of the Committee Of Wives Of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) and a past chairperson of the annual conference committee.v
She is happily married with children and lives in Lagos
I will be discussing
Insights Into Being A Publisher
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 3-4pm
Glowreeyah Braimah
Glowreeyah Braimah is a versatile and globally-acclaimed Kingdom Personality. As a distinct Worship-Leader and Music Minister, Glowreeyah has graciously been on various ministry, corporate, political and international platforms around the world.
Apart from singing duets and hymns with her as he played the piano, Glowreeyah’s Father fondly nick-named her 'The Bridge’. Perhaps, he foresaw her innate ability to relate with ease and connect with people, irrespective of their gender, age, race or circumstance.
Glowreeyah has been known to write all her songs based on her personal devotion and life experiences. Her website www.glowreeyah.com is rife with the inspirational experiences that have birthed most of her songs in her faith-journey. She says-'I may never have the force and prowess of the world's greatest armies or the vast reserves of the super-powers but what I have is heart, life and love enough to change my generation; with one word, one song, one expression, one person at a time'!
Some of her well-known songs from The Expression album are the evidence of her remarkable testimony. Songs such as 'Covenant-Keeper', 'Angel-Armies', 'Eze' and the beautiful worship-anthem 'Miracle-Worker'.
Currently working on her sophomore album, her new singles 'Open Heavens', Jesus is here', 'Jehovah' and 'Exalted' are a total blessing. Glowreeyah is very colourful in her expression and in the demonstration of her love for The Lord. She is graced for such a time as this as a Worshipper with a difference.
Ibrahim Suleiman
Ibrahim "CaptainQuest" Suleiman is a Nigerian-based Architect, Digital Artist, Actor, Voiceover artist, Choreographer, Writer, Model and Filmmaker. He has garnered recognition for his contribution as a creative in many different formats of television, film and advertising.
He was born and raised in Kaduna and Abuja (cities in Northern Nigeria), and moved to Lagos fully in 2016 after working as an Architect, Choreographer and Writer for 8 years. He has since gone on to be a prominent Nollywood face seen at least 5 times a week by millions of households across Africa on Multichoice/Africa Magic's Tinsel. He has also featured in Nollywood Cinema blockbusters, and a couple of Netflix feature length films.
As an Artist, his works have begun to speak very well of his undeniable talent. And has had collectors from all over the world commission or collect his works.
He is currently working on his first solo exhibition (tentatively titled "IX.XXV") which should open in September 2021, in Lagos, Nigeria.
Ibrahim is married to Actress, Model, Producer and Director, Ihuoma Linda Ejiofor and they have a son, Keon together.
I will be doing a book reading of
Diary Of A Toddler
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 7-8pm
Ifeyinwa Omesiete
She is a certified Nutritionist with a Bsc in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, USA.
She consults at various hospitals for children of all ages; where she treats medical and dietary ailments. She creates and introduces innovative recipes designed to improve a child’s diet based on their diagnosis, physical activity and age requirements. Her experience ranges from picky-eaters to the management of genetic and chronic diseases.
She co-founded Nutrition4kidsng; which is an online platform that educates parents on the importance of proper nutrition, effective feeding techniques and must-have skills designed to introduce a child to a variety of wholesome meals between the ages of 6 months-6 years.
Through her social media platforms, she educates and shares her personal experiences on how to live in the modern world,whilst raising healthy and well-nourished children.
One of her many goals is to relieve parents of the stress and guilt of wondering how to feed their children the right way, while cultivating a healthy family lifestyle
I will be speaking on
Feed Them Right: Superfoods For Children
Friday July 2, 2021 — 6-7pm
Izehi Anuge
Izehi Anuge, a Trainer, Speaker and Author is driven by excellence in every aspects of life. There are four intrinsic paradigms that drive her in her pursuit of excellence; her passion, her values, her beliefs and her aspirations.
Izehi is fascinated with Service Excellence and the mark it makes in the psyche of every individual that embraces it. This fascination stemmed from a deliberate choice to see people succeed, propelled by a craving for excellence that is not just controlled or “performed”, but learned and lived continuously.
Izehi pursues and lends her expertise in multiple areas of Values Based Education and Learning. She is an Author of a children’s book series (Captain Excellence), which focuses on triggering a Values-Based consciousness in children and creator of Gen Z Personal & Creative Excellence workbook.
Izehi Anuge is the Managing Director at Shape-A-Child and the Founder of Inspire Excellence and National Service Excellence Initiative expressing her expertise by creating a Values-Based Framework for Institutions.
Izehi daily acknowledges that values build character in individuals, businesses and Nations and helps them rise above the crowd.
When she is not working, Izehi pursues her other passions, which include music, food, having deep conversations with people and love.
Izehi Anuge’s life mission is to ensure that millions of young individuals are ingrained from an early age with the values that makes for excellence in personal, communal and National living.
I will be sharing a story from
Captain Excellence And The Little Big Orange
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 11am-12pm
Jemima
A violinist and football fan, Year 2 student Jemima loves reading, learning and swimming. Jemima assisted the Editorial Board of the 2021 Akada Children's Book Festival by reading and reviewing many of the books submitted. She also assisted the festival planning team by providing feedback on product development from the perspective of the intended audience, children.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 8-9am
Jennifer Nwokeji
Jennifer Nwokeji is an educator and author who is passionate about making positive impacts in the lives of young children, especially struggling children. As a second career educator, her life’s goal is to see that young children believe in themselves and reach their full potential. She is happily married and blessed with two biological children.
I will be speaking on
Use Your Words
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 5-6pm
Joseph Aderoju
Joseph Aderoju, self-published author, illustrator, educator, screenwriter, copywriter, business development consultant, producer and TV director. His peculiar passion is teaching the next generation of writer's the rudiment of writing. He has been honoured with many invitations as a visiting author from various schools.
I will be doing a book reading of
Bundi
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 12-1pm
Jude Idada
A winner of the NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature, an AMAA best screenplay award, ANAA prize for Drama, a nominee for the prestigious University of Iowa International Writing Program, a Goethe Institut Afrika Projekt finalist and a long-listed and short-listed nominee of the NLNG Nigeria Prize for Literature for his plays Sankara and Oduduwa – King of the Edos, he has continually blazed a trail in the local and international art scene.
He was also a finalist in the New Directions Filmmakers of the future project by MNET in addition to being selected as one of the playwrights for the British Council’s Lagos Theatre Festival. Amongst many, Jude was also selected as one of the screenwriters for the Toronto International Film Festival’s ‘ADAPT THIS!’ and the Afrinolly/Ford Foundation ‘Cinema4Change’ projects. Jude was also an inaugural participant in the Relativity Media/AFRIFF Filmmaking project.
As a filmmaker, he has written several screenplays for various production companies spread around the world. He wrote and produced the critically acclaimed film “The Tenant” which won several awards, including the Hollywood Black Film Festival’s ‘Audience Choice’ award, and the Mid Atlantic Black Film Festival’s ‘Best Film’ award amongst several others . He has also directed the documentary “Blaze Up the Ghetto,” the short films “Chameleon” and “The Queen of the Night,” in addition to the feature film “Kofa”.
He lectures widely on prose writing, playwriting, screenwriting, acting and directing particularly in indigent communities in Nigeria and is a lover of nature, a humanist, art lover and explorer of the various psyche of the human constitution, as it exists socio-culturally and psycho-spiritually across borders and cultures.
He lives in Lagos, Nigeria and Toronto, Canada.
I will be sharing a story from
Boom Boom
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 12-1pm
Juliana Olayode
Olayode Juliana Oluwatobiloba is a multiple award winning Actor, Bestselling Author, Public Speaker and Brand Ambassador. She started her acting career in Nollywood in 2014 when Featured in a Television Series Tittled "ME, MYSELF AND MY DIARY".
Her big break came when she acted in The popular Nigerian Television Series Titled "Jenifa's Diary", this TV series was watched in every part on Nigeria and aired on different Terrestrial Television Station in Nigeria such as AIT(African Independent Television), NTA (Nigerian Television Authority), STV (Silverbird Television), TVC (Television Continental) and a lot more. She featured on Jenifa's Diary series for Ten (10) seasons. Some of the episodes can be seen on YouTube on SceneOneTV.
She has received a lot of award recognitions and nominations such as FUOTAMSA AWARD as The Best Actress Of The Year In 2016, KRISTIEOPE FOUNDATION AWARD in 2017, 19ROM AWARDS IN 2017, THE CORPORATE CREATIVE EXCELLENCE AWARD in 2018, THE NIGERIAN MERITORIOUS AWARD IN 2018 and a lot more.
She has acted in other movies such as COUPLE OF DAYS which can be seen on Netflix, RIVERS BETWEEN, WHERE DOES BEAUTY GO, CLICK NOW. She has also acted in ROYAL OUTLAW, BAD DAY, BENSON'S VILE, they can all be seen on YouTube. She has also acted in different Stage Play productions which were staged in different states in Nigeria such as MAGIC TIME, THE BLOOD THAT SPEAKS AND MAN ENOUGH.
She is also a lead actor in the movie "STEPPING INTO MAGGIE 'S SHOES", in which there would be a Premiere Tour to The UK, Europe and different Cinemas across Nigeria and a lot more. Asides being an Actor, she is a published author with a book to her credit.
"REBIRTH" is an Autobiography about her Rise to fame.
She has been invited to speak on different platforms such as: Ted X Adankolo; Live Your Dreams Africa; Do It Afraid Conference; Lagos State University
To mention but a few.
She is also a highly sort after brand Ambassador, she has represented quite a number of Corporate brands in the last 7 (Seven) years. Some of which include: Perfection Real Estate, Lagos; Tpumpy Real Estate, Abuja; Darling Hair Nigeria; Wiggit UK; Ashanti Cosmetics UK; DubaiAfrika; Travelbay.co
She has an enormous social media following, amounting to over 2.5 million followers from all over the world across all her social media platforms.
I will be doing a book reading of
Tobi Visits The Conservatory
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 3-4pm
Katie Manley
Katie Manley made her break into the entertainment industry at age 19 as a Production Coordinator in New York City. At age 20, she landed her first feature film job on Learning to Drive, starring Sir Ben Kingsley and Patricia Clarkson. She has worked on several films, television shows and Broadway shows such as Little Monsters (film), While We're Young (film), "The Elephant Man" (Broadway show), Power (show), Broad City (show), and The Black Panther (film). Since then, she has used her background to become an expert in marketing, sales and partnerships and a mentor to those wanting to break into and navigate the film industry.
Currently, she is on the advisory board of nonprofit Vidiots, working as a Court Appointed Advocate with CASA-LA and launching her company, Young Cinephiles Club. Ms. Manley currently resides in Los Angeles, California.
I will be speaking on
A Day In The Life Of A Filmmaker
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 10-11am
Kemisola Adetola
Kemisola Adetola is the founder of Book Hangout, a socially engaging community of readers, channelled towards redefining the reading narratives in Nigeria and Africa at large, as well as fostering self improvement through reading, and promoting social interactivity among creatives and business professionals.
Kemisola is a PR consultant at ADVerb Agency where she is working with businesses, personal brands with authors to create valuable social engagements around the theme of their books, as well as driving sales and distributions.
With her educational background in Psychology, Kemisola is passionate about applying the principles of human psychology to build an active and engaging community for brands across various walks of life.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 5-6pm
Kimberley Ajayi-bembe
Kimberley Ajayi-Bembe is a British Citizen who relocated to Lagos 12 years ago, she has been an early years professonal in both Scotland and Nigeria for 14 years, she is the School Director at The Nurturing Tree which started in 2017. Kimberley has a passion for building the right foundation and giving the children the necessary skills for an easy transition to school, her personal goal is to ensure the children adopt a love for books as books help develop a childs brain and aids in concentration, attention span and their social skills while helping develop early literacy skills.
Kimberley believes in mentoring her staff and encouraging them to be the best educator that they can be, she also likes to volunteer her spare time; she was previously the Chairperson for the Education Board for Meadow Hall School and is also dedicated to the Lagos Caledonian Society and the Nigerwives Organisation.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 6-7pm
Lara David-Odufuwa
Lara David-Odufuwa is a best-selling author of "Why Do We Have To Move". She holds a BSc in Biochemistry, a MSc in Human Resources Management from Walden University, USA and a Diploma in Business and Digital Marketing.
She is also a Founder of KidzAspire, a global platform that publishes educational materials and inspires parents to raise children and teenagers to achieve their highest potentials and live fulfilling lives.
She is currently working as a Project Manager in Canada.
I will be doing a book reading of
Why Do We Have To Move?
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 1-2pm
Maje Ayida
Maje Ayida is a Nigerian Wellness Coach and CEO of the award winning Health and Fitness Brand, Eden Lifestyle. The brand's Corporate Wellness program services various industries in Nigeria, from Banking to Oil and Gas. Maje spent 10 years in banking in the UK, having gone through the full education system there. He has been a columnist for two national newspapers and makes numerous television and radio appearances, educating and motivating Nigerians on healthy living. He is an accomplished international speaker, influencer, Mental health advocate and writer, and is the Vice Chair of The Spa And Wellness Association Of Africa.
Maje was named as 1 of 60 Influential Nigerians making Nigerians lives matter in 2020 by The Guardian Newspaper.
Ndidi Chiazor-Enenmor
Ndidi is a versatile and prolific writer. She writes for both adults and children.
Her debut children’s book, I will Always Eat my Food, a picture book, was published in 2006. Ever since, Ndidi has gone ahead to create a niche for herself, displaying mastery in children’s books; from picture books to short chapter books and to pre-teen fiction. Her books are beautifully crafted with themes that children could relate with.
Her best-selling children’s book, A Hero’s Welcome, made the first shortlist of the Nigeria Prize for Literature, 2019. Her earlier book, One Little Mosquito, published in 2008 won the Association of Nigeria Authors prize for children’s writing, 2009.
Stories of our Land is Ndidi’s collation of folktales from different tribes in Nigeria. Her story, Timi and the Barber, featured in the Nal’ibali radio programme in Cape Town, South Africa. The story has also been translated into several African languages. The book is now published and available in Nigeria.
Ndidi was a participant of the 2017 edition of Book Dash workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa. During the programme, participants drawn from different countries of Africa produced 12 new picture books. Mina and the Birthday was written by Ndidi during the workshop.
My Fruits My Alphabet is a book that introduces children to the beneficial world of fruits. They learn about fruits while learning the letters of the alphabet. This book is especially important this year because 2021 has been declared by the UN as the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables.
For Ndidi, writing stories is an amazing world of raw talent and endless discoveries. She constantly seeks for opportunities to write more beautiful stories. Prose remains her preferred choice of creative expression.
I will be doing a book reading of
My Fruits My Alphabet
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 5-6pm
Nnenna Ochiche
Nnenna is a medical doctor with a bias for Community Medicine. Her love for writing enables her use it as a tool for health education, as well as to motivate her readers to embrace African stories. She is also a wife, mom of four, a blogger and an aspiring movie maker.
Her books for children are inspired by her memories of the child she was, as well as the antics of her own children who are her muses, biggest critics and biggest fans.
Ginika’s Adventures is her second book. It was on the long list for the NLNG Prize for Literature in 2019. She has two new books in the works and hopes to get them into the hands of her teeming fans this year.
I will be sharing a story from
Ginika's Adventure
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 10-11am
Obioma Maduekeh
Master Obioma Maduekeh (popularly known as #ProfObioma) is a multi-talented 6 years old prolific reader, presenter, and storyteller. He is a kidpreneur and the CEO of SmartKidObi Media. Through his IG page @smartkidobi, he regularly reviews diverse children's books and produces content that encourages kids to read books, and models good behaviors and values.
Prof Obioma enjoys physical exercise such as running and playing football. He also enjoys creative drawing, playing piano and watching his favorite TV programmes. He started reading fluently at the age of 4. His personal goal in 2021 is to read and review 75 books amongst others.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 9-10am
Oladele & Louisa Olafuyi
Dele and Louisa are both marketers with experience working for top businesses. The couple met in London in 2013 and moved to Cambridge in 2017 where Dele completed his MBA at Cambridge University, Judge Business School, and Louisa worked as a senior product marketer at Cambridge University Press. The MBA sparked an entrepreneurial bug and they knew they wanted to start a business at some point.
Whilst they had not published a book before, they leveraged their experience in marketing and business strategy to build a business plan and roadmap for the business.
Kunda Kids is a publishing and creative media studio. We are a team of writers, illustrators, editors, musicians and animators, with a single purpose to inspire the next generation of young people about ancient and modern African history and culture.
We will be doing a book reading of
Shaka Zulu Learns To Dance
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 1-2pm
Olatunde Lawal-Solarin
Bjorn Olatunde Lawal-Solarin is the Chief Executive Officer of Lantern Books, Literamed publications and founder of the Book Swap Foundation.
He is an award winning writer, trained in filmmaking, web design, graphic design and 3D animation.
I will be discussing
The Importance Of African Children's Books Locally And Globally-3
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 2-3pm
Olayemi Ejemai PhD
Olayemi Ejemai, Ph.D.; FCCA; FCA; FCIT; is an author of children’s picture storybooks and the CEO of BooksbyEMO. She`s a mother of 3 wonderful children (2 girls and a boy who happen to be special), and a wife to Oluwaseun Ejemai. She is also a fellow of Association of Chartered Accountants, Institute of Chartered accountant of Nigeria, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria.
She has a day job and lectures on a part-time basis. Her working experience spans over several industries including Entertainment, Oil and Gas, and Public Sector. She hopes to move into academia, full time. Olayemi is at her best when she is reading and writing. She loves to spend time with her family, visiting places, traveling the world, and learning new things.
She recently published two articles titled: Companies Income, Custom, and Excise Duty Tax Gap and Infrastructural Development in Nigeria; and Value Added Tax Gap and Capital Expenditure over Economic Services in Nigeria. Olayemi is passionate about empowering everyone around her, particularly children. She believes in grooming children to be confident, independent and responsible adults.
Her children’s books are morally conscious and inclusive, bearing in mind the Nigerian culture and International environment. They strive to communicate deep messages concisely and in an interesting way. Olayemi presently has fourteen (14) published children’s picture books, including Nigeria’s first picture book trilogy. She also has several unpublished books that she hopes to publish in the nearest future.
I will be doing a book reading of
My Dad Is A Superhero
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 4-5pm
Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi
CONVENER
Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi
Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi is an author; the publisher of Clever Clogs Books; and the convener of the Akada Children's Book Festival. She is passionate about creating visually-engaging, culturally-relevant content for children, and has a desire to see steadily increasing literacy rates within her community and others. Olubunmi is also the immediate past Executive Council Chairperson of Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ); the Chairperson, Board of Trustees, of the OA Foundation; and was a Member of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee for the 2019 Nigerian Economic Summit. Olubunmi also sits on the board of Punch Nigeria Limited; Punch Commercial Printing and is a Trustee of the Punch Media Foundation.
Olubunmi has written a number of articles in the areas of commerce, agriculture, resource maximization, sanitation and land use in Nigeria. Her passion for writing developed into collaborating with talented artists to create beautifully-illustrated children's picture books designed to make reading attractive, inspire innovation and excite children, parents and teachers. Her published works include: Tobi Visits the Conservatory; Kob the Antelope; Diary of a Toddler; Tobi Bakes A Cake; Tobi Learns To Swim and Why Do You Wash Your Hands? (www.cleverclogsbooks.com). Olubunmi has read her books and given keynote speeches at numerous conferences; schools; book clubs; and events in various parts of Nigeria and internationally.
Olubunmi, has a Bachelor's degree in Economics from City University London, and has also completed the General Management Program at Harvard Business School as well as the Advanced Management & Leadership Program at Oxford University Said Business School. Olubunmi is a member of the Institute of Directors Nigeria; the Young Presidents' Organization; the Corporate Governance Society of Nigeria and the Harvard Business School Alumni Association of Nigeria.
Articles written by Olubunmi have been published in several national daily newspapers, such as PUNCH, BusinessDay, Guardian, Nation, Vanguard, New Telegraph, Sun, This Day and others.
I will be doing a book reading of
Kob The Antelope
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 6-7pm
Olufunke Oluyemi
Olufunke Oluyemi is the founder of Infant and Toddler's Corner, an early childhood education resource and consultancy organization. With a background in Information and Communication Technology, she gained experience in the financial services and Information Technology sector before starting up the early childhood organization. In pursuit of her passion and quest for knowledge on rounded education and development of the child, she certified as a Montessori early childhood educator and a Professional Early Years Consultant. She is married and their marriage is blessed with two young boys.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 4-5pm
Olusegun Akande
As well as being a fantasy fiction novelist, Olusegun Akande is the author of the Amazing Adventures of Izi and Larry the Dinosaur children's books series (www.iziandlarry.com).
As a result of his passion for empowering people to succeed, through his company, OA Empowerment (www.oaempowerment.co.uk), he teaches creative writing and drama at a number of primary schools in London and also mentors and coaches young people.
I will be sharing a story from
Izi And Larry Visit Nelson Mandela
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 9-10am
Oluwadarasimi Fagbayi
Oluwadarasimi Fagbayi is eight years old and presently in Year 4. His dream is to play football for his favorite Premier League Footballers one day.
I will be reading my book
Max The Footballer
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 10-11am
Omotayo Oyetayo
Omotayo Oyetayo is a chartered accountant by profession. She writes fictional stories and novels that help children improve their interpersonal skills and promotes the importance of good morals with the belief that her story books will change the life of one child at a time.
She has written three children's books, namely The Canary That Couldn't Sing, Fudu The Lonely Hedgehog and the recently released title No Color For The Peacock. She draws her inspiration from her children and children around the world that do not have access to quality education.
I will be doing a book reading of
The Canary That Couldn't Sing
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 3-4pm
Omowunmi Benson-Ajila
Wunmi is a Banker with one of the leading financial organizations in Africa. With over 15 years’ experience in the financial services industry; she has played lead roles in Private and Offshore Banking, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Sustainability Management, Project Management and Customer Relationship Management (CRM). She has received several awards and recognition for her outstanding performance and impact.
Wunmi has an Msc. in Global Human Resource Management from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom. She is a Certified GRI Sustainability Manager and Certified Customer Service Professional by Service Quality Institute, USA. She is a lead facilitator at Pink- Paws Global Groomers and also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Call To Love Initiative.
I will be speaking on
Money: Spend It Or Save It?
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 9-10am
Onyinye Odih
Onyinye Odih is an early childhood, author and speaker. She expresses herself in several ways to fulfil her desire to build stronger families. As a teaching practitioner, she has worked with families for many years and her understanding of parents and their involvement with their children ,has been an outstanding achievement for her.
Her book A mother's love was borne out of her observation of the relationship between families and their children; she wrote the story for children but also hopes that parents can relate with the hidden message and continue to provide the love and care that children need.
I will be speaking on
Parent Appreciation
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 1-2pm
Sade Fadipe
Sade majorly lived and schooled in Kent with her English foster mother, for the first six years of her life, before relocating to Nigeria with her parents. After a first degree in English (Linguistics) and a bag of cultural accessories, she returned to England. There she attained a Post-graduate in Education and taught at schools within London and Essex. In 1996, a Guest-Author visited her school: the world acclaimed Quentin Blake. Thereon, her inspiration to one day write for children was ignited.
Twenty years later, she released her very first picture book A Fun ABC published by Cassava Republic Press. She has since been a Guest-Author at the prestigious The Royal Festival Hall, Africa-Writes, The British Library, The Malcolm x Centre - Bristol, libraries, children’s book clubs and schools across the UK and Nigeria.
I will be doing a book reading of
A Fun ABC
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 3-4pm
Safari Fitness
Safari® is a unique African inspired fitness program.
The rhythms include Afrobeats, Bhangra, Calypso, Latin & Soca
We are headquartered in Nigeria, UK & Belgium with Safari® Instructors in different countries worldwide
Sarah Odedina
While at University Sarah met her husband the Nigerian artist, Abe Odedina. They have two daughters and when their children were small they struggled to find books and stories that they felt offered their London based family a realistic and positive portrayal of the African continent. Now 30 years later the need for a wider range of voices remains. Sarah sees her work as a publisher and as a Director of Accord as an opportunity to bring African writers telling their stories of life on the continent to readers worldwide. Sarah Odedina has worked in publishing for more than two decades.
As the Publishing Director of the children’s list of Bloomsbury Publishing, she oversaw the publication of the Harry Potter series as well as published many other best-selling prize-winning novels and picture books. In 2011 Sarah founded the successful and award-winning Hot Key Books.
Sarah is now Editor-at-Large for Pushkin Press commissioning titles for the children's and YA list.She is the co-founder of Scoop Magazine for children. Sarah travels around the world giving talks and hosting workshops about publishing and children’s literature. She also teaches creative writing focusing on books for young readers.
I will be speaking on
Write Like A Pro! & Why You Need A Literary Agent
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 10am-2pm
Semilore Okojie
Semilore Okojie is a 5-year-old multitalented boy.
He is an avid child reader, book reviewer and story-teller in the making. He started reading and reviewing books at the age of two with a preference for his favorite African Author –Bunmi Aboderin Talabi; an influence that amassed his interest in African books.
He is extremely playful, witty and can talk the hind legs off a horse like a mini-consultant. He loves math, science & technology and is passionate about wild life and ancient animal history (with a specific interest in dinosaurs). He is a good gamer and is quite open minded; always willing to learn about anything and everything.
He is a contortionist/gymnast in training, potential child model and sportsman with energy levels that exhibit consistent enthusiasm and a passion for the things he loves.
His hobbies are swimming, running, cycling, cooking, inventing and imaginative play. His career goals for now are to be a pilot, engineer, super hero and fly a rocket to the moon.
I will be having a book chat about
My Favorite Children's Books
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 7-8pm
Seyi Oni
Oni Oluwaseyi is an artist. He had his training at Ahmadu Bello University and a Masters degree from the University of Ibadan, Institute of African Studies. He began his career teaching Fine Art in his 300 level while also mentoring under Prof. Jerry Buhari in ABU, Zaria. He then went on to work at PictureWorksExtra and FramShopExtra where he worked on several art printing and photo framing projects for Clients like Sunmi Smart-Cole, TY Bello, Center for Contemporary Art, Leke Alder, Punch Newspaper and many more. His relationship with the Ojeikere family and Late J.D Okhai Ojeikere drew his interest to photography.
His artworks have been used both locally and internationally for promotions. His artistic style ranges from abstract to experimental and also landscape painting. Currently he is a Principal designer at the Federal University Oye-Ekiti and also a Co-Founder at MuMo Studios, a creative space that provides creative direction for a variety of people and companies.
Artist In Residence
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 5-6pm
Supreme Education Foundation School
Supreme Education Foundation School – a tradition of care and excellence since 1991
What makes a child stand out in a 21st century world where life, work and society are so different from what we imagined? What kind of education prepares your child to be one of those who will transform Nigeria into the country of our dreams?
At Supreme Schools, we impact your child in knowledge, skills and character, developing core areas such as academics, leadership, service, entrepreneurship, life skills.
Our journey towards building the total child starts as early as 3 months, from our Creche, then to the Early Years Foundation, and Key Stages 1 & 2. Students then progress to Middle and High Schools of the secondary stage. We offer a blend of the Nigerian and British curricula.
Supreme Schools was founded in 1991 as a co-educational and multi-cultural institution.
We Are The KidTheatrics Performers For The 2021 Akada Children's Book Festival And Our Play Is Titled
My Happy Place
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 2-3pm
Temiloluwa Modele
Temiloluwa Modele is an eleven year–old. His love for books have been greatly inspired with the vibrant reading programs and activities he enjoyed in school. This love for books has motivated him to write his book , The Life of an Exciting and Brilliant Boy.
Temiloluwa loves sport. He enjoys playing basketball and football with his friends. He is fascinated with Minecraft. He is presently the library prefect in his school.
I will be reading my book
The Life Of An Exciting And Brilliant Boy
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 12-1pm
Temiloluwa Adeshina
Temiloluwa Adeshina is a seasoned British Curriculum Teacher and a consultant with more than a decade old experience. She cut her tooth as a teacher while working with other curriculums in the Nigerian system of education. The behavioural patterns of children over the years laced with the rich African culture inspire her works with fun and drama.
She reviews educational textbooks and re-writes them for leading publishing firms in Africa like Learn Africa (formerly called Longman). All of these books have been approved and adopted into the Lagos State Curriculum. She lives in a fairy world where stories are written and flow endlessly from diaries of dreams and pages of excitement. She is a prolific writer and author. This is what she is committed to.
Her published books include Lagos State Approved Bantu the Big Fat Bully, an Award winning Anti-Bullying Book Series, arguably the first Anti-Bullying Book Series in Africa. Her books are usually strategically revolved around moral activities and
projects that fix the moral and value system challenges in children. Such activity includes the Award-Winning, Lagos State Approved Anti-Bullying Programs mandated for all schools in the State. Hence the adoption of the book Bantu as the resource material. Other published books include Farmer Bami Series, Happy Jappy Series, Mini Mani Mo, Dark Arises and more. She churns out book day in day out. This is her lifelong passion. Temiloluwa’s style of writing is a creative blend of David Walliam’s and Francesca Simons’ humour and wit laced with Enid Blyton’s mild, fairylike enchanting world yet heavily and deeply rooted in her strong African heritage and culture.
She is the Chief Reading Guide at Love Africa’s Readland Book Club and community Library powered by Vast Vision Global.
I will be doing a book reading of
Risi Recycle
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 8-9am
The Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson
The Duchess of York is a global humanitarian, businesswoman, best selling children's book author, speaker, producer, wellness advocate and now novelist with her first novel to be published in August.
The Duchess has published over 70 books including two autobiographies and titles dealing with health, empowerment, history, art, as well as children's stories. Alongside this, she has launched a new daily YouTube Storytime show 'Fergie & Friends', reading a series of different children's books, sometimes with guests, to help keep children entertained during lockdown. To date, there have been over 2 million views.
In addition, these stories have been distributed to children's hospitals throughout the UK and US, accompanied by personal recorded messages from The Duchess.
I will be doing a book reading of
Why Do You Wash Your Hands?
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 2-3pm
Tola Okogwu
Tola Okogwu is a British-Nigerian Author, Journalist and Hair Care Educator. Born in Nigeria but raised in London, she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism. Through her books and wider writing, she constantly seeks to create 'mirrors and windows', allowing everyone the opportunity to read books that are reflective of their own experiences, backgrounds and cultures.
Her self-published picture book series, DADDY DO MY HAIR is a firm family favourite. The books were inspired by the relationship between her husband and daughters and are designed to challenge some of the perceptions and preconceptions around race and gender roles within parenting. Her books have become an excellent way of encouraging diversity and inclusion from an early age.
Tola's new middle grade series with Simon & Schuster is set in a futuristic Nigeria, powered by solar energy, fed by vertical farms and where re-greening initiatives are thriving. Against this backdrop, a young British-Nigerian girl discovers she has mutant powers and must unravel the secrets of her families past in order to save herself and her kind. The first book, ONYEKA AND THE ACADEMY OF THE SUN will be published in June 2022. Tola also writes as Lola Morayo and the first book under this name, AZIZA'S SECRET FAIRY DOOR will be published by Pan Macmillan in June 2021.
Tola lives in Kent, England with her husband and two daughters.
I will be doing a book reading of
Daddy Do My Hair
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 6-7pm
Tolu Shofule
Tolu Shofule is an illustrator, an author, a creative designer, and a publisher of children's books. For his background in Architecture, Illustrations and Character Animation, Tolu has had the pleasure of working on a myriad of projects ranging from children's books, merchandise and interactive games.
He is deeply passionate about producing quality and relevant content for children. Based on his works and illustrations, Tolu has garnered a lot of awards and praises.
I will be speaking on
Creating Dynamic Illustrations For Children's Books
Thursday July 1, 2021 — 6-7pm
Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie
Tonye Faloughi-Ekezie is a wife, mother and entrepreneur. As the head of TEEOF Media, she consults on media and entertainment projects for a range of clients.
In her early years Tonye attended school and university in the UK and USA, before eventually relocating back to Nigeria, working on, and commissioning major projects for such companies as Endemol South Africa, MNet and Storm 360. Imbibed with an entrepreneurial spirit from her father, Tonye started her own company, TEEOF Media, in 2011.
In 2012 Tonye married her best friend Ugo Ekezie and in 2013 they welcomed their first child, a boy, Ugo Jr., and in 2015 their second child, a girl, Simone. However, Simone had life threatening heart complications resulting from a late diagnosis of Down syndrome. As a result, Tonye and her family had to relocate to save her daughter’s life.
In May 2018 with the good news of Simone’s heart functioning as normal, Tonye was able to return to Nigeria.
With the life lessons learnt and the experience of being a mother, she created the book series “Ugo and Sim Sim”. She has now turned her entrepreneurial drive to not only raising awareness about special needs, but also to children’s content after noticing a severe lack of entertainment representing black African children, special needs children and those who fall into both categories.
Hence, the creation of “Simone’s Oasis”, a hub dedicated to black African children. Currently on all social media platforms and YouTube, kids can enjoy fun stories, books, music, videos, cartoons and more that have them fully represented! Parents are included too! Grown-ups will be able to join the Simone's Oasis community on everything parenting from how to potty train, to home schooling, to caring for a child with special needs.
The full Simone’s Oasis platform launches in the near future.
I will be speaking on
Reading To Children With Special Needs
Friday July 2, 2021 — 2-3pm
Toyin Onigbanjo
Oluwatoyin Onigbanjo is an award-winning child nutrition advocate and Founder of Augustsecrets, a fast-growing innovative child nutrition company based in Nigeria.
She is a children’s recipe developer, author, family enthusiast and gender & growth advocate for women. Toyin holds a Masters’ Degree in International Affairs from the University of Lagos, A Bachelor’s Degree in English & Literature from Kogi State University and a Diploma Certificate in Child Nutrition from the Stanford University (Online)
She is the recipient of the Graca Machel Gender Lens Award for her innovative strides in child nutrition and women empowerment in West Africa.
She is the author of the Augustsecrets Meal Plan, which has arguably been the best-selling recipe book for children in West Africa along with feeding thousands of children with the cereals manufactured at Augustsecrets-Jaden’s Meals.
Her company, Augustsecrets is a recipient of several awards including the Food Safety Award by Royal DSM International in 2018. Jaden’s Meals are African-inspired, natural cereals for children sold in more than 300 stores within Nigeria, Ghana & Canada.
Toyin was listed as one of Ynaija & Leading Ladies Africa’s Most Inspiring Women 2018, and one of Nigeria’s Most Innovative Women Entrepreneurs by SME100, and also the Her Network Woman of the Year 2018. She has been featured in various publications including The Guardian Woman, Business Day and many others.
Oluwatoyin was the 2nd Runner up at the first Samsung Nigeria’s Food Art Competition in 2016.
She is a sought-after speaker and facilitator on issues relating to child nutrition, personal & family development, and growing scalable, women-owned businesses from scratch. She has represented Nigeria at various global panels and programmes, one of which is the ‘Accelerating the SDG Goal 2 of ending hunger and malnutrition’ in Thailand.v
She has a handful of published articles and papers to her credit, one of which is “Curbing Child Malnutrition using traditional recipes and foods” was published in the Kenyan International Journal of Nutrition & Dietetics in Nairobi.
Oluwatoyin is happily married to Olawale and they have two beautiful children; Jaden and Joanna.
I will be speaking on
Creating Endearing Memories With Your Children
Friday July 2, 2021 — 5-6pm
Ugo Anidi
Ugo Anidi's writing career began in primary school where she wrote and illustrated chapter books and sold them to her classmates. Her head basically floats around in the clouds except when she has to act as a referee between her sons and/or work as Regional Advisor of the Nigerian chapter of the SCBWI. She is currently an MFA student of the Writing for Children and Young Adults Program at the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She lives in Lagos with her husband, 3 sons, an imaginary dog and 200+ books.
I will be doing a book reading of
Half Hour Hara And The Case Of The Broken Eggs
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 1-2pm
Yejide Kilanko
Yejide Kilanko was born in Ibadan, Nigeria. A writer of fiction and poetry, Kilanko's debut novel, Daughters Who Walk This Path, a Canadian national bestseller, was longlisted for the 2016 Nigeria Literature Prize. Her work includes a novella, Chasing Butterflies (2015), two children's picture books, There Is An Elephant In My Wardrobe (2019), and Juba and The Fireball (2020). Kilanko's short fiction is in the anthology, New Orleans Review 2017: The African Literary Hustle. Her second novel, A Good Name, is forthcoming in September 2021. Kilanko lives in Ontario, Canada, where she practices as a therapist in children's mental health.
I will be speaking on
Worry, Go Away!
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 11am-12pm
Yvonne Ogbechie
-Won a creative writing award in Year 5 [2013]
-Wrote and illustrated my first children's book for a class project in Year 12 [2020]
-Won a Silver Key in the Comic Art section of the Scholastic Art and Writing awards [2021]
I will be speaking on
Artistic Achievement: Illustration 101
Saturday July 3, 2021 — 8-9am