Simisola Gbadamosi, a 13-year-old Nigerian voice actress, has made history as the youngest Nigerian to receive an Emmy nomination. She is nominated in the Outstanding Younger Voice Performer category for her role as Tola Martins in *Iwájú*, a Disney+ animated series. The nomination is for the 3rd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards, set for March 15, 2025, in Los Angeles.
Iwájú, a six-episode series that premiered on February 28, 2024, follows Tola, a wealthy girl from futuristic Lagos, and her tech-savvy friend, Kole. The show, created by Disney Animation and Kugali Media, explores themes of inequality and Nigerian culture through vibrant storytelling.
Gbadamosi’s performance has been widely praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, making her a standout among nominees. Social media, particularly X, is filled with excitement, with many calling her a trailblazer and celebrating the global recognition of Nigerian talent.
In addition to Gbadamosi’s nomination, Iwájú secured two more nominations: Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series and Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series for the episode Kole. This marks a significant milestone for Nigerian animation at the Emmy Awards.