Friday, August 18, 2023

UDENTA @ 60: Panel Discussion and Birthday Celebration to be Held Tomorrow

 UDENTA @ 60: PANEL DISCUSSION, BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION TO BE HELD TOMORROW



By Wole Adedoyin


The much-anticipated 60th birthday celebration of the distinguished academic, Prof. Udenta Udenta, is set to take place tomorrow, on the 19th of August, 2023.


Organized by the Confluence of Future Arts in collaboration with Rovingheights Bookstore, the event has garnered significant attention for its upcoming intellectually stimulating discourse entitled "CULTURAL PRODUCTION, POLITICS AND NIGERIA’S FAMISHED POSSIBILITY."


This exceptional event marks a tribute to the illustrious academic journey of Prof. Udenta O. Udenta, commemorating his 60th birthday. 


The discourse is scheduled for Saturday, August 19, 2023, at the esteemed Rovingheights Bookstore situated on Gimbiya Street in Garki Area 11, Abuja. The proceedings are set to commence at 11 am.


Distinguished luminaries from various intellectual domains will converge at this event to deliberate on the intricate dynamics between cultural production, politics, and the potential of Nigeria's future. This enlightening discourse aims to illuminate both challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, underscoring the influential role of cultural expressions in shaping the nation's trajectory.


The highlight of the occasion will undoubtedly be the keynote address delivered by the esteemed Prof. E. E. Sule, an eminent figure in Nigerian literature and academia. Prof. Sule's profound insights are poised to set the stage for a day of enriching conversations and self-reflection, captivating the hearts and minds of all attendees.


The discourse boasts an impressive lineup of esteemed personalities, including Tomisin Faoye, Mallam Denja Abdullahi, Prof. Razinat T. Mohammed (Moderator), Prof. Emeka Aniagolu, Prof. Mabel I E. Evwierhoma, and Arch. Chukwudi Eze. With each panelist bringing a unique perspective to the table, attendees can anticipate a vibrant exchange of ideas that promises to ignite intellectual fireworks.


In a fitting tribute to Prof. Udenta's 60th birthday, a pivotal highlight of the event will be the presentation of a complete set of Udenta O. Udenta’s six-volume Collected Boyhood Works to the first 30 young writers in attendance. 


This gesture underscores the commitment to nurturing the next generation of literary talents, ensuring that Prof. Udenta's legacy continues to thrive.


Participants can look forward to an interactive and engaging experience, brimming with opportunities for networking and the exchange of knowledge. 


The event aims to cultivate meaningful connections among attendees, fostering the cross-fertilization of ideas and the establishment of collaborative partnerships that will contribute significantly to Nigeria's intellectual and cultural landscape.


The "CULTURAL PRODUCTION, POLITICS AND NIGERIA’S FAMISHED POSSIBILITY" discourse presents an unmissable opportunity for those passionate about the convergence of culture, politics, and Nigeria's future direction. 


This gathering guarantees a day of intellectual exploration, celebration, and inspiration that resonates deeply with the visionary spirit of Prof. Udenta and his enduring contributions.

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest: IHRAF Calls For Entries

 

AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST: IHRAF CALLS FOR ENTRIES


 

The African Secretariat of the International Human Rights Art Festival proudly announces the launch of the "African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest." This innovative contest aims to provide a platform for poets, artists, and activists across the African continent to creatively express their perspectives on critical human rights issues. With a deadline set for October 30th, 2023, this contest calls upon all passionate advocates of social justice, environmental sustainability, and gender equality to make their voices heard.

In a statement by the Director of IHRAF in Africa, Wole Adedoyin said the African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest serves as an essential opportunity for marginalized voices to rise and be heard. By channeling the power of spoken word, participants are invited to explore and confront pressing concerns such as climate change, immigration, police brutality, gender inequality, and more. This artistic initiative seeks to engage individuals in meaningful dialogue and encourage positive change through creative expression.

In the spirit of fostering a more just and equitable society, the contest offers attractive prizes for outstanding contributions. The first-place winner will be awarded $100, the second-place winner will receive $75, and the third-place winner will be granted $50. Additionally, five honorable mentions will be acknowledged for their exceptional submissions.

Selected entries that rise above the rest will also take center stage at the esteemed International Human Rights Art Festival, scheduled to take place from December 4th to 10th, 2023. These thought-provoking pieces will be showcased, celebrating the impactful role of spoken word in advocating for human rights and fostering positive change.

In alignment with its commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue, the contest invites entries from individuals worldwide, provided that their submissions address human rights issues specific to Africa. Entries are expected to reflect the intrinsic values of human rights, offering innovative perspectives on themes such as government violations, gender inequality, terrorism, and more.

Participation in the contest is as simple as submitting a captivating 1-minute video showcasing an original spoken word poem. Entrants are encouraged to create unique pieces that delve into their chosen human rights theme while adhering to contest guidelines. These include filming in a quiet environment, ensuring stable camera work, and submitting original, previously unpublished content.

The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest underscores its commitment to nurturing emerging talents by awarding Certificates of Participation to all entrants, and Certificates of Excellence to shortlisted participants. Furthermore, the contest invites diverse, untraditional, and unheard voices to join the conversation and contribute their unique perspectives.

Entries can be submitted via email to ihrafafrica@ihraf.org, with the subject line "AFRICAN HUMAN SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST." Alongside the 1-minute video, entrants are requested to provide their name, age, gender, country, address, phone number, and a brief profile. It is essential to confirm the originality of submitted work and accept the Conditions of Entry as outlined by IHRAF.

For more information and inquiries, interested parties can contact: Wole Adedoyin at +2348072673852 or woleadedoyin@gmail.com.

The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest is an initiative of the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF), USA, dedicated to amplifying voices, sparking dialogue, and promoting the realization of human rights across the African continent.

 

Call for Entries: African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest

 

CALL FOR ENTRIES: AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST:


 

DEADLINE: 30TH OCTOBER, 2023

The African Secretariat of the International Human Rights Art Festival is proud to announce the upcoming "African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest," a transformative platform that harnesses the power of spoken word artistry to address pressing human rights issues. The contest aims to bring together poets, artists, and activists from across the African continent to creatively express their thoughts and perspectives on critical matters such as social justice, climate change, women's empowerment, immigration, human trafficking, police brutality, and violence against women.

In an era where dialogue and advocacy hold the key to positive change, the contest seeks to amplify the voices of those often marginalized and unheard. Through the art of spoken word, participants will have the opportunity to shed light on the urgent need for social justice, a sustainable environment, and equal rights for women. The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest will serve as a powerful catalyst for awareness, empathy, and action, encouraging participants to delve into these multifaceted issues and inspire others to do the same.

The African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest is set to unleash a wave of creative expression, advocacy, and solidarity across the African continent. Poets, spoken word artists, and all individuals passionate about human rights are encouraged to participate and contribute to this vital dialogue. Together, we can harness the power of spoken words to pave the way towards a more just, equitable, and compassionate future.

Submit a captivating 1-minute video where you passionately recite a unique and artistic poem crafted by you. This is your opportunity to shine and potentially be showcased on our vibrant social media platforms.

Demonstrate and elucidate the potent utilization of spoken language as a catalyst for the advancement and bolstering of human rights across the African continent. To merit rightful acknowledgment, submissions should inherently encapsulate the essence of human rights.

PRIZE(S)

·         First Prize - $100

·         Second Prize - $75

·         Third Prize - $50

·         Five honorable mentions

 

The selected works that emerge victorious will take center stage at the International Human Rights Art Festival, set to unfold between December 4th and 10th, 2023.

OTHER BENEFITS

· Award of Certificates of Participation to all Entrants.
· Award of Certificates of Excellence to only the shortlisted entrants.

GUIDELINES

1.      Upload a 1-minute video of yourself reciting your original poem of not less than 20MB.

2.      Entries are welcomed from anywhere in the world, but must address human rights issues in Africa

3.      Stories must have Human Rights at heart.

4.      Only one Video per entrant

5.      Your video can explore any of the following human rights themes: Freedom of Expression, Government Violations, Police Brutality, corruption, forced Eviction, terrorism, Gender Inequality, LGBT Rights, Child Labour, Child Marriage, Domestic Violence, violence and discrimination against women; child abuse; female genital mutilation, ethnic, regional, and religious discrimination, child trafficking etc.

6.      Record yourself in a quiet place (no music or background noise). Listen to your audio before you upload to make sure we can hear you well. No other persons are allowed in the video.

7.      Make sure the video is not shaky, the camera must be still while filming.

8.      Ensure your video is artistic, original, and creative. Videos must not have been previously published or used for a commercial purpose such as private sale or used in monetized platforms. All content to be used must be original, including any music.

9.      Do not add any graphics, text, or captions. If you need to perform your poem in sign language, you are welcome to do so.

10.  Film in landscape mode.

11.  We strongly encourage diverse, untraditional, and unheard voices to enter this competition

12.   The 1-minute Video must be a new and original piece of work. The Story must not have been published in any form or awarded previously.

13.  Deadline for submissions is 30th October, 2023

14.  Winners will be announced on the November 25th, 2023

15.  Any signs of plagiarism will disqualify the contestant.

16.  IHRAF reserves the right to withdraw and reclaim the financial value of the contest if it is discovered that a Spoken Word Artist has fabricated any information in their submission. 

17.  Organizers’ decision is final

18.  All entrants agree to offer IHRAF first world rights, with the right to upload selected videos on its media and streaming platforms.

19.  All entries must be submitted to: ihrafafrica@ihraf.org

20.  Title of your mail should be addressed as “AFRICAN HUMAN SPOKEN WORDS CONTEST”

21.  Entrants are advised to send the following information alongside their entries

22.  Name, Age, Gender, Country, Address, Phone Number, Where you heard about the Contest, Short Profile about yourself, Name of school or university if any

23.  It is your responsibility to ensure that your submission is eligible for the Contest. By entering your work for the Contest you are confirming to us that the work that you are submitting is your own original work, and that you have read and agreed to the Conditions of Entry of the Contest.  

24.  We will write to everyone who entered for the Contest and inform them of the outcome of their application once the judging process has concluded. 

 African Human Rights Spoken Words Contest is an initiative of the International Human Rights Art Festival (IHRAF), USA aimed at promoting and supporting the realization of human rights in Africa.

 

For more enquiries contact: Wole Adedoyin +2348072673852 (woleadedoyin@gmail.com)

 

Tuesday, August 15, 2023

Denja, Prof. Mohamed, Prof. Aniagolu, Prof. Evwierhoma, Others to Headline Udenta@60 Celebration

 

DENJA, PROF. MOHAMMED, PROF. ANIAGOLU, PROF. EVWIERHOMA, AND OTHERS TO HEADLINE UDENTA@60 CELEBRATION


 

By Wole Adedoyin

The Confluence of Future Arts, in collaboration with Rovingheights Bookstore, is thrilled to announce a thought-provoking event titled CULTURAL PRODUCTION, POLITICS AND NIGERIA’S FAMISHED POSSIBILITY, dedicated to celebrating the 60th birthday of the esteemed Prof. Udenta. The event promises to be an insightful and intellectually stimulating conversation on the intersection of cultural production, politics, and Nigeria's potential, featuring a lineup of distinguished panelists and keynote speakers.

The event will feature an exceptional lineup of individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. The keynote address will be delivered by the renowned Prof. E. E. Sule, whose profound insights and expertise in literature and culture promise to set the tone for an engaging discourse.

The panelists for this event represent a diverse range of perspectives and expertise. Among them is the highly respected Mallam Denja Abdullahi, former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), whose rich experience in arts and culture is sure to provide valuable insights. Prof. Razinat T. Mohammed, a prominent figure in academia, will serve as the moderator, guiding the discussion with her depth of knowledge and critical thinking.

Adding to the intellectual vigor of the panel are Prof. Emeka Aniagolu, an author of 17 acclaimed books: nine works of fiction and eight works of non-fiction., and Prof. Mabel I. E. Evwierhoma, whose expertise in the realm of arts and society promises a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter. Architect Chukwudi Eze, the current Chairman of ANA Abuja will contribute a unique perspective to the discussion.

The event will take place at the prestigious Rovingheights Bookstore, located at Gimbiya Street, Garki Area 11, Abuja, on Saturday, August 19th, 2023, starting at 11 am. Attendees can look forward to a captivating and enlightening dialogue that delves into the complex relationship between cultural production, politics, and the potential for growth and progress in Nigeria.

As the celebration of Prof. Udenta's 60th birthday, this event promises to be a testament to his enduring commitment to intellectual discourse, cultural enrichment, and the advancement of Nigeria's artistic and societal landscape.

 

Udenta @ 60: Stakeholders to Engage in Profound Discourse on Culture, Politics, and Nigeria's Potential

 

DENJA, PROF. MOHAMMED, PROF. ANIAGOLU, PROF. EVWIERHOMA, AND OTHERS TO HEADLINE UDENTA@60 CELEBRATION


 

By Wole Adedoyin

The Confluence of Future Arts, in collaboration with Rovingheights Bookstore, is thrilled to announce a thought-provoking event titled CULTURAL PRODUCTION, POLITICS AND NIGERIA’S FAMISHED POSSIBILITY, dedicated to celebrating the 60th birthday of the esteemed Prof. Udenta. The event promises to be an insightful and intellectually stimulating conversation on the intersection of cultural production, politics, and Nigeria's potential, featuring a lineup of distinguished panelists and keynote speakers.

The event will feature an exceptional lineup of individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. The keynote address will be delivered by the renowned Prof. E. E. Sule, whose profound insights and expertise in literature and culture promise to set the tone for an engaging discourse.

The panelists for this event represent a diverse range of perspectives and expertise. Among them is the highly respected Mallam Denja Abdullahi, former President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), whose rich experience in arts and culture is sure to provide valuable insights. Prof. Razinat T. Mohammed, a prominent figure in academia, will serve as the moderator, guiding the discussion with her depth of knowledge and critical thinking.

Adding to the intellectual vigor of the panel are Prof. Emeka Aniagolu, an author of 17 acclaimed books: nine works of fiction and eight works of non-fiction., and Prof. Mabel I. E. Evwierhoma, whose expertise in the realm of arts and society promises a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter. Architect Chukwudi Eze, the current Chairman of ANA Abuja will contribute a unique perspective to the discussion.

The event will take place at the prestigious Rovingheights Bookstore, located at Gimbiya Street, Garki Area 11, Abuja, on Saturday, August 19th, 2023, starting at 11 am. Attendees can look forward to a captivating and enlightening dialogue that delves into the complex relationship between cultural production, politics, and the potential for growth and progress in Nigeria.

As the celebration of Prof. Udenta's 60th birthday, this event promises to be a testament to his enduring commitment to intellectual discourse, cultural enrichment, and the advancement of Nigeria's artistic and societal landscape.