Children are indeed a special gift, celebrated for their unique potential and pure joy. Yet, they become even more fascinating when they display exceptional talents from a tender age, earning the title of prodigies. These young individuals possess unusual skills and gain early mastery in various fields, captivating the world with their brilliance. As we commemorate this year’s International Day of the African Child, we highlight seven African child prodigies who have amazed the world with their extraordinary talents.
Tanitoluwa Adewumi (Nigeria)
At just eleven years old, Tanitoluwa Adewumi, known as Tani, has already made a name for himself in the chess world. He first garnered attention in 2019 when he won the New York State K-3 Chess Championship while living in a homeless shelter. Tani’s journey from fleeing Boko Haram in Nigeria to becoming a national chess master exemplifies resilience and determination. Practicing for 8 to 10 hours a day, Tani aims to become the youngest-ever grandmaster. Beyond chess, he leads the Tanitoluwa Adewumi Foundation, supporting refugees and immigrants, and has authored best-selling books sharing his inspirational story.
Sheilah Sheldone (Kenya)
Eleven-year-old Sheilah Sheldone is a multi-talented artist, known for her exceptional skills in painting, modeling, singing, poetry, and fashion design. She began her artistic journey at the age of five and has since had her work admired by notable figures, including the President of Kenya. Sheilah’s initiative, Sheilah Sheldone Arts for Social Change CBO, aims to support children with neurodevelopmental disorders through creative expression. Her accolades include the Youngest Lioness of 2018 award, the Nina Simone Artistic Excellence Honoree, and the Global Child Prodigy Award.
Joshua Agboola (Nigeria)
Joshua Agboola, an 11-year-old tech prodigy, has been a trailblazer in the technology field since the age of six. As the founder of Joshfortech, Joshua is proficient in multiple programming languages and has developed innovative projects such as ‘Kagukar Study Buddie,’ an AI-powered educational tool. His achievements include winning the MTN mPulse Hackathon and delivering a TED Talk. Joshua’s work emphasizes the importance of curiosity and continuous learning.
Elias Mothomi Gitonga (Kenya)
Five-year-old Elias Mothomi Gitonga is known for his extraordinary reading abilities. He captured global attention by winning an international competition showcasing his intelligence and passion for aviation. Elias can identify 16 different helicopters and their parts, a skill discovered by his parents when he was just one year old. His remarkable talents have earned him visits to military airstrips and universities, and he is a recipient of the Global Child Prodigy Award.
Kareem Olamilekan Waris (Nigeria)
Kareem Olamilekan Waris, Africa’s youngest hyperrealism artist, gained international fame at eleven after drawing a portrait of French President Emmanuel Macron in just two hours. Kareem’s passion for art began at six, and his hyperrealistic works often explore socio-cultural and political themes. He has received numerous awards, including the Global Love of Lives Award from Taiwan’s Chou Ta-Kuan Foundation, and serves as an ambassador for Ecobank Nigeria.
Oraltiwe ‘DJ Arch’ Hlongwane (South Africa)
Oraltiwe Hlongwane, known as DJ Arch, started his music career at the age of one and became the world’s youngest DJ at three. Now ten, he has performed at numerous international events and appeared on several Got Talent shows worldwide. DJ Arch’s achievements include winning South Africa’s Got Talent and holding a Guinness World Record, making him a prominent figure in the music industry.
Stycie Waweru (Kenya)
Thirteen-year-old Stycie Waweru is an emerging star in the film industry. She began acting in school dramas at four and landed her breakthrough role in the critically acclaimed film “Supa Modo” at nine. Stycie has continued to shine in films like “Lusala” and the Netflix feature “Just In Time,” often portraying characters that empower young girls and reflect contemporary African life. Her performances have earned her widespread recognition and admiration.
These young prodigies remind us of the boundless potential within every child. Their stories inspire us to nurture and support the talents of all children, ensuring they have the opportunities to thrive and make their mark on the world.
