The African Studies Centre (ASC) and the Department of Afroamerican and African Studies (DAAS) at the University of Michigan are delighted to welcome the acclaimed actress, Omowunmi Dada, as their 2023 Global Artist in Residence.
Funded through a Title VI grant from the U.S. Department of Education and administered by the ASC in collaboration with DAAS, the Global Artist in Residence programme will entail the actress collaborating with DAAS language instructors to create audio-visual materials for teaching African languages. Furthermore, she will engage with the broader University of Michigan (U-M) campus community.
In addition to her campus involvement, Omowunmi Dada will also connect with elementary, middle, and high school students and teachers in Southeast Michigan. She will give presentations on Nollywood and African filmmaking at events organised in partnership with various U-M schools, departments, and local organisations, with a focus on educating the next generation about Nigerian culture.
The movie star expressed her honour at being named the Global Artist in Residence, representing Nollywood, one of Africa’s most vibrant film industries. She shared her enthusiasm, stating, “Through this unique opportunity, I am excited to engage with faculty, staff, and students at the University of Michigan, sharing the rich tapestry of African culture and the incredible journey of the Nigerian movie industry, of which I am proud to be a part. Together, we will explore the captivating stories, diverse traditions, and creative spirit that define Africa, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Africa and Africans in ways that promote the culture of collaboration between the United States and the continent of Africa.”
ASC Director, Prof. Omolade Adunbi, described Dada as a phenomenal actor whose presence in the Nigerian and African film industries has introduced a new flair to how we perceive Nollywood and filmmaking on the continent. “Visiting our classrooms to share her wealth of experience with our students will further make Africa and its rich traditions, along with the burgeoning film industry in Nigeria, more visible on our campus,” he added.
Omowunmi Dada holds a Bachelor of Arts (B.A. Hons.) in Creative Arts from the University of Lagos. The Nigerian-born, award-winning Nollywood actress, presenter, and model has been gracing screens and stages for nearly a decade.
