Popular skit maker and actor, Folagade Banks, alongside renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan and the Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, were among the distinguished guests at an empowering youth programme organized by the Noella Foundation in Lagos.
Held under the theme “Inspiring the Next Generation,” the event brought together a diverse group of young Nigerians, providing a platform for them to hear from accomplished leaders and pioneers in various industries. The programme, which took place in Lagos state, aimed to encourage the youth to pursue their dreams and realize their potential.
The Noella Foundation, founded by Seyi Tinubu (son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu) and his wife, Layal Tinubu, is a non-profit organization dedicated to youth empowerment, mentorship, and community development across Nigeria. In addition to its mentorship initiatives, the foundation runs outreach programs that focus on child welfare, youth development, and capacity-building.
Sharing His Journey: Folagade Banks' Story of Passion and Resilience
During the event, Folagade Banks, whose real name is Abiri Tobi Festus, captivated the audience with his personal journey to stardom. The popular skit maker, known for his beloved "Mama Deola" character, encouraged Nigerian youths to stay focused and pursue their passions relentlessly.
Banks spoke candidly about the challenges he faced early in his career, revealing how his love for acting pushed him to take significant risks. “There were times I would travel from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, to Lagos just to shoot a scene for N20,000. It wasn’t about the money; it was about passion and purpose,” he recalled.
He emphasized the importance of consistency in achieving success, noting that despite the early uncertainty and difficulties, his unwavering dedication allowed him to evolve beyond his comedy roots. “I started with Mama Deola, and many thought that was all I could do. But with time and consistency, I’ve been able to evolve into different roles — as a matron, a mother, and even beyond comedy,” Banks added.
Kunle Afolayan Stresses the Importance of Authentic Storytelling
Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan also addressed the audience, urging aspiring creatives to preserve the authenticity of Nigerian culture in their storytelling while also embracing innovation. Afolayan, known for his cinematic contributions to Nigerian culture, highlighted the importance of storytelling as a tool for cultural preservation and national growth.
He encouraged young filmmakers to stay true to their roots and not be swayed by fleeting trends, but to find ways to adapt and create relevant content that resonates globally.
The Minister for Youth Development, represented at the event by a senior official, commended the Noella Foundation for its role in providing platforms that inspire and empower young Nigerians. The official stressed the importance of collaborations between government and private sector initiatives in tackling the challenges of youth unemployment and fostering creativity as a driver for national development.
Interactive Session: Engaging the Next Generation of Creatives
The event concluded with an interactive session where participants had the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers. The session focused on practical ways to harness opportunities in the creative and entrepreneurial sectors, equipping young Nigerians with the tools they need to succeed.
By bringing together industry leaders, creatives, and young Nigerians eager to make a difference, the Noella Foundation’s event not only inspired but also empowered the next generation to take bold steps toward achieving their dreams.