AGOS —  MMELI Arts Foundation, in partnership with Alliance Française de Lagos, has brought together women writers and creatives for an intensive storytelling workshop designed to strengthen their creative voices and open pathways to professional publishing.

Held in Ikoyi to commemorate International Women’s Day 2026, the Women, Words and Wealth workshop focused on three key areas: Creative Identity, Developing Your Voice, and Publishing Pathways.

The practical sessions were facilitated by storyteller and filmmaker Phoenix Ezendu; actor, writer and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo; and award-winning author and journalist Nina Anyianuka.

Speaking on the importance of the programme, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Chairman of MMELI Arts Foundation, said the organisation was committed to creating structures that could move African creative voices “beyond potential into tangible influence.”

He stressed that creative talent must be supported by strong institutions if African creatives are to compete effectively on the global stage.

Also speaking, Victor Mark-Onyegbu, Head of Grants and Community Building at Africa No Filter, encouraged participants to recognise the power of storytelling in shaping how Africa is perceived globally. He urged them to tell authentic, grounded stories capable of challenging long-standing stereotypes about the continent.

Founded by award-winning author and journalist Nina Anyianuka, MMELI Arts Foundation is focused on cultural renewal and the professional development of creatives across Africa.

Anyianuka said the foundation was committed to bringing greater discipline and rigour to creative practice.

“The goal is not simply to encourage expression, but to equip women with the tools to produce work that can stand in professional and global spaces,” she said.

She added that Women, Words and Wealth was created to help women writers transition from private expression to public authorship, with emphasis on discipline, structure and intentionality.

The programme was supported by Nestlé Nigeria, Rite Foods, Alliance Française Lagos and Africa No Filter.

Participants described the workshop as a timely intervention for women in the creative sector, noting that it combined cultural grounding with practical strategies for building sustainable careers in storytelling.

Dorothy Ughenu, a television and screenwriter, described the programme as a first-of-its-kind initiative that created a safe and supportive space for women in the storytelling community.

She said the lessons and structures shared by the facilitators would help participants amplify their voices while strengthening their earning potential.

MMELI Arts Foundation said details of upcoming workshops and opportunities for writers would be announced in the coming weeks. Writers, creatives and potential partners are encouraged to follow the foundation’s official channels for updates on future programmes and collaboration opportunities.

About MMELI Arts Foundation

The MMÉLÌ Arts Foundation (MAF) is a pan-African nonprofit organisation committed to advancing creative excellence, cultural enrichment and community development through the arts.

The foundation supports African creatives with resources, opportunities and recognition across disciplines including craft, design, literature, dance, music, film, theatre and visual arts.

Nina Anyianuka, an award-winning author and journalist, is the founder and CEO of MMELI Arts Foundation.

Editorial Contact:
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Email: heymmeli@mmeliartsfoundation.com
Website: mmeliartsfoundation.com