About WSICE

Since 2009, the Wole Soyinka International Cultural Exchange has served as a global platform promoting creativity, critical thought, and cultural dialogue. Named in honour of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, WSICE engages youth, scholars, and artists across Nigeria and the diaspora.

Youth Essay Competition

Theme: ‘Decolonisation of the Nigerian Youth: Agenda for Future Leadership’ as well as ‘Decolonisation of the African Youth’ Open Mic Session, Ijegba Forest Amphitheatre, Abeokuta, Nigeria and The Africa Centre, London, United Kingdom

This contest invites students to explore identity, liberation, and civic responsibility, with participation from across Nigeria and internationally.

Highlights of WSICE 2025 Youth Essay Competition
– Essay Competition: Entries for the competition, which is open to secondary school students across Nigeria ends on Tuesday, June 17. Earlier, the producers of WSICE had announced call for entries for submission of original essays on the topic: “Decolonisation of Nigerian Youth: Agenda for Our Future Leadership.” 91 finalists will be selected to participate in the main celebration in Abeokuta.

– Youth Talent Showcase: “Do Your Own Thing” (DYOT): Four selected schools will each present 25 students showcasing creative performances in music, dance, drama, spoken word, and indigenous art forms.

– Honouring WS@90 Winner: WSICE 2025 will feature and host the winner of the 2024 WS@90 Essay Competition.

– Female Talking Drummers Showcase: A special highlight celebrating female student drummers through a traditional Talking Drums performance.

International Advocacy Panel (UK)

Theme: ‘The Artist as Postcolonial Agent: Canvas of Leadership Nuances’ in partnership with The Africa Centre, London, in addition to scholars from Bournemouth University and the University of Westminster, this panel explores how artists shape leadership narratives in postcolonial societies.

Keynote Speakers
• Professor Wilson Mano
• Dr. Vanessa Iwowo

Anchors for Advocacy Sessions
• Chief Olu Alake, MD/CEO
• Dr. Samantha Iwowo, Bournemouth University

Nigeria Programme Team
• 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 & Joy Nweye – Associate Producers
• Lilian Amah-Aluko – Production Lead

Organisers
WSICE is produced by ZMirage Multimedia Company Ltd, under the leadership of Executive Producer Dr. Olateju Kareem, and co-executive producers Prof. Segun Ojewuyi and Dr. Kareem.

Executive Producer’s Statement
Dr. Olateju Kareem, Executive Producer and MD/CEO of ZMirage Multimedia Company Ltd, the founding organisation of WSICE, reaffirmed the programme’s mission:

“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 expressed heartfelt appreciation for 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, wrrs, and artists.”