13-year-old Simisola Gbadamosi Makes History as Youngest Nigerian Emmy Nominee

Nigerian actress Simisola Gbadamosi has made history as the youngest Nigerian nominated for an Emmy Award. The 13-year-old earned a nomination in the Outstanding Younger Voice Performer category at the 3rd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards for her role as Tola Martins in the Disney+ animated series “Iwájú”.  

Simisola’s nomination is a major milestone for Nigeria’s entertainment industry, reflecting the country’s growing influence in global animation. “Iwájú,” which premiered on Feb. 28, 2024, is a six-episode series set in a futuristic Lagos. It follows Tola, a young girl from a wealthy island, and her friend Kole, a self-taught tech genius. The show, a collaboration between Disney Animation and Kugali Media, combines Nigerian culture with innovative storytelling while addressing social themes such as inequality.  

Her portrayal of Tola has received praise for its authenticity and emotional depth, making her a standout among young voice actors. The series has also earned nominations in two additional categories: Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series and Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series for the episode “Kole.”  

The 3rd Annual Children’s and Family Emmy Awards winners will be announced on Mar. 15, 2025, in Los Angeles, where Simisola’s nomination highlights the increasing global recognition of Nigerian talent in the entertainment industry.