THE 2024 CULTURATI FESTIVAL, 18th edition wraps up in grand style WITH DINNER , AWARDS And cultural display in music ,dance spoken words exhibition and drama.
The evening event also witnessed Culturati iconic award presentations to distinguished personalities who have continually contribute enormously to the development of culture, art and tourism not only in Lagos, Nigeria but Africa at large.
The festival which started on the 5th of December and continued Friday 6th December have witnessed about 100 Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) showcasing their products and services at an exclusive trade fair in partnership with NaijaBrandChick, providing participants with visibility and access to new markets.
The convener Adetola Bakinson in her short closing remarks reiterated that Culturati Festival is a vibrant celebration of African culture, heritage, and diversity showcasing the African distinctiveness and it was intentional choosing freedom park also tagged as freedom edition as we want this venue to be continually remembered not for Incarnation but emancipation for culture and promises to bridge creativity Commerce and culture, in Nigeria and Africa at large .
The designated venue for this year 18th Edition Freedom Park, will also receive a unique attention to enhance its appeal as a cultural landmark. It known to be a colonial-era prison, the park is now a thriving hub for arts and culture, symbolizing freedom and resilience.
The continuous restructuring plan is aim to attract more tourists, cementing its place as one of Lagos’ premier cultural destinations.
She also emphasized the significant collaboration the festival is having with the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture in order to achieve a unique blend of cultural, creative, and economic initiatives.
Mrs Adetola Bakinson, CEO of Culturati Africa, Speaking at the press briefing, described the event as a movement committed to promoting cultural diversity and driving creative and economic development across the African continent.
The 18th Edition of will feature the Culturati Community Library, an initiative advocating for literacy and cultural education amongst Children and Young Adults bringing onboard record holders who have showcase exceedingly greatness not only in Africa but the world at large.
Musical presentation by alartica who bring alive the Nigerian old school moon light songs withAfrican embellishments Dr Adetoun also know as Just adetoun Instagram presented a drama coupled with Spoken words.
The gala and award night an avenue to showcase and recognize distinguished individuals for their continuous contribution to the creative and tourism sector.
AWARDS SESSION •
Cultural icon award was given to Mrs– Lola shoneyin
Lola Shoneyin is a Nigerian poet and author who launched her debut novel, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, in the UK in May 2010.
Shoneyin has forged a reputation as an adventurous, humorous and outspoken poet (often classed in the feminist mould), having published three volumes of poetry.
Her writing delves into themes related to female sexuality and the difficulties of domestic life in Africa, she was named on the Hay Festival’s Africa 39 list of 39 Sub-Saharan African writers aged under 40 with potential and talent to define trends in African literature.
Iconic Award in Culinary Chief Mrs Iyabo Lawani
Iyabo Lawani is a renowned Nigerian food expert, consultant, nutritionist, home economist, food stylist, and photographer.
She is best known for hosting the popular cooking shows Maggi Family Menu and Maggi Good Food Moments from 1999 to 2008. She is also a pioneer and a leader in the Nigerian food industry, promoting the quality and originality of Nigerian cuisine.
Iyabo Lawani’s passion for food stems and runs her own catering business, where she has trained and influenced many chefs and food bloggers in Nigeria and beyond.
Iyabo Lawani believes that to cook a great dish, one must first understand the food, its origin, the ingredients, spices, and the best method used. She is passionate about keeping the history and heritage of Nigerian food alive and believes that no shortcuts can achieve the same results when it comes to cooking Nigerian dishes.
Iconinc Award in Arts to Tayo Bello waasere
Tayo Bello (aka Waa Sere) is an educator and artist who discusses Yoruba culture and language on his social media platforms. He is based in Ibadan.
• The Iconic Literacy award given to Mrs Helen prest Ajayi
She is a Nigerian lawyer, writer and beauty pageant titleholder she was crowned Miss Nigeria at the age of 19 in 1979, she represented Nigeria at the Miss World 1979 pageant She was also active as a columnist in the 1990s.
She is currently the CEO of Media Business company. Helen Prest stopped practicing law and became a writer and has authored many books which include “The Complete English Guide.
At her acceptance speech she reiterated the need for collective action towards enhancing the reading culture in our society and she appreciated deeply the organizer for this recognition.
With high-profile dignitaries and international guests who attended, Culturati 2024 is poised to elevate African culture on the global stage while driving innovation and empowerment in the cultural and creative industries in Nigeria and Africa at large.
