https://blackgirlnerds.com/an-all-star-nigerian-cast-celebrates-west-african-culture-with-iyanu/

Lion Forge Entertainment, the studio behind “Iyanu,” the epic superhero animated-series steeped in Nigerian culture and mythology, debuting on Cartoon Network and Max, has set a sponsorship pact with Nigeria’s famed The Voiceover Conference, Africa’s premiere voiceover summit.

Lion Forge will come on board as a leading sponsor for the biggest voiceover event in Africa. The relationship highlights a shared commitment from Lion Forge Entertainment and The Voiceover Conference (TVOC) to amplify and uplift diverse, global voices within the entertainment industry. The 2024 edition of The Voiceover Conference takes place June 25-26 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Lion Forge’s “Iyanu” is an adaptation of Dark Horse Comics/YouNeek Studios’ popular graphic novel series Iyanu: Child of Wonder by award-winning Nigerian creator and producer Roye Okupe, and the series is already groundbreaking in that it features an all-African cast. 

Okupe and previously announced cast member Serah Johnson, who voices the title role of Iyanu, will be featured in discussions at TVOC. Paula Gammon Wilson, “Iyanu” Casting Director and Voice Director, is also a special guest and will teach a class on the audition process, giving attendees a chance to practice their talents. 

TVOC’s founder and seasoned voiceover artist King E. Afemikhe, is among the newest “Iyanu” cast members and is set to voice Abbey. Other new additions include convention co-host Femi “Bakes” Olugbade, who voices Uwa; special guest and award-winning voiceover artist Tolulope Kolade (Everything Voiceovers Podcast) who voices the character Siju; broadcaster turned voice actor Femi Sowoolu as Chancellor Nuro; Lord Frank as The Fallen One; multilingual voice actress Rashidat Fawehinmi Raji as Omolola; and voice actress Iheanetu Edith Chidinma as Teju.

Set to debut on Cartoon Network and Max next year, “Iyanu” is an epic superhero tale set in the magical kingdom of Yorubaland, which draws from Nigerian culture, music and mythology. The series follows Iyanu, a teenage heroine who must uncover the mystery behind her newfound powers to save her people from an ancient curse threatening to destroy humanity.

Founded by David Steward II, Lion Forge Entertainment is a mission-driven entertainment company focusing on content that is both authentic and appealing to a broad audience. The company develops and produces animated and live action content targeting the kids & family and young adult audiences.

Steward II stated, “We are thrilled to enter a partnership with The Voiceover Conference, a staple in Africa’s budding voiceover scene helping young artists break into the entertainment industry and thrive. This collaboration is a testament to our mission of amplifying authentic, diverse voices. It’s especially exciting that these talented individuals will now be featured in our upcoming animated series ‘Iyanu,’ bringing fresh and genuine perspectives to our audiences.”

King E. Afemikhe founded TVOC in response to the escalating unemployment rates across Africa. With the intent to empower the continent’s youth and ultimately prepare these African voices for global recognition and success, the annual conference provides a nurturing platform for aspiring voice-over talents to not only succeed but find relevance and employment through the use of voice. TVOC seeks to transform voiceover into a thriving sector that generates profitable business opportunities for young Africans in and outside the continent.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lion Forge as a sponsor for the Voiceover Conference 5.0. Their support is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication. Lion Forge’s commitment to our event not only validates our efforts but also inspires us to strive for greater heights. We believe that collaboration is key to growth and progress, and we are grateful for Lion Forge’s partnership in bringing together the pioneer and biggest voiceover conference in Africa,” said King E Afemikhe, Founder, Voiceover Workshop & Media and Convener of The Voiceover Conference.

The 2024 Voiceover Conference takes place virtually on June 25 and as a hybrid event on June 26 at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Nigeria. Register at thevoiceoverconference.com.