Zaia Ventures, the venture studio founded by former Prime Video chief marketing officer Ukonwa Ojo, has invested in Taeps Animation Studios, a rising Nigerian company dedicated to telling powerful African stories through animation.
Taeps Animation Studios, co-founded in 2017 by friends and animation enthusiasts Adeoyin Okuboyejo and Ayobami Bello, seeks to celebrate African culture and heritage through innovative animation. The studio gained recognition for its short film “Ewa,” which was nominated for Best Animation Short Film at the African Film Festival (AFRIFF) in 2023.
The studio is currently developing its first feature film, “Adétóún and the Heart of Time.” This CG animation tells the story of Adétóún, a young descendant of an ancient warrior, who embarks on a journey that explores themes of ancestry, heritage, and bravery. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of an ancient relic and a battle for supremacy that could change the course of time.
Ukonwa Ojo will join the studio’s advisory board, bringing her expertise in marketing and brand strategy to support the company’s growth. With her experience in launching top shows for Prime Video, Ojo is poised to help Taeps Animation Studios inspire global audiences with the richness of African culture.
Ojo, who left her role at Amazon in 2022 after leading successful campaigns for shows like “The Boys” and “Wheel of Time,” founded Zaia Ventures to build and scale businesses serving underrepresented communities. “I am thrilled to join forces with Taeps Animation Studios to amplify African voices and narratives in the world of animation,” said Ojo. “Their commitment to authenticity and excellence in storytelling aligns perfectly with our vision at Zaia Ventures. Together, we will showcase the beauty, complexity, and diversity of African culture to a global audience.”
Adeoyin Okuboyejo, CEO of Taeps Animation Studios, expressed excitement about the partnership: “This collaboration with Zaia Ventures is evidence of our shared vision of celebrating African heritage through animation. With Ukonwa Ojo’s expertise and support, we are embarking on our most ambitious project yet: ‘Adétóún and the Heart of Time.’ Together, we will not only entertain but also inspire and educate audiences on the uniqueness of African storytelling.”
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