Move over, Hollywood—there is a new star on the rise, and she’s rewriting the rules of global animation. Simisola Gbadamosi, a 13-year-old Nigerian voice actress, has just become the youngest Nigerian ever to receive an Emmy nomination for her enchanting performance in Disney+’s futuristic Lagos-set series, Iwájú.
The talented teen has been recognised in the “Outstanding Younger Voice Performer in a Preschool, Children’s or Young Teen Program” category at this year’s Children’s & Family Emmy Awards (set for 15 March 2025 in Los Angeles). Born on 17 April 2011, Simisola has been a creative force since childhood—launching her own business, Simi’s Bakehouse, at just three years old. When she’s not bringing animated characters to life, she fills her time with reading, drawing, cooking, playing the violin, and soaking up precious moments with family.
Her groundbreaking role as Tola Martins in Iwájú—a six-episode series following two friends navigating a futuristic Lagos—has not only put her on the map but also marks a major milestone for African storytelling. Premiered on 28th February, 2024, the show is a historic collaboration between Disney Animation and Pan-African studio Kugali Media, making it the first Nigerian-produced series ever nominated at the Emmy Awards.
But Simisola is not the only one making waves—Iwájú itself has scored two additional nominations for Outstanding Children’s or Young Teen Animated Series and Outstanding Directing for an Animated Series, proving that Nigerian creativity is taking its rightful place on the world stage.
This is not just a win for Simisola—it is a triumph for inclusive storytelling, proving that fresh, authentic voices can reshape global entertainment. And at just 13, we’ve got a feeling this is only the beginning.
Could she be Nigeria’s next big export to Hollywood? We are certainly rooting for her!
