The MMELI Arts Foundation, in partnership with Alliance Française de Lagos, has convened women writers and creatives in Lagos for a storytelling intensive to mark International Women’s Day 2026.
The workshop, titled Women, Words and Wealth, was held in Ikoyi and brought together participants from across the creative sector for a hands-on programme focused on strengthening storytelling craft, developing authentic voice, and exploring pathways to publication.
Organisers said the initiative was designed as a practical engagement aimed at equipping women with the tools required to transition from creative expression to professional authorship. Sessions at the workshop covered key areas including creative identity, voice development, and navigating the publishing landscape.
The training was facilitated by a lineup of prominent industry figures, including veteran actor and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo, storyteller and filmmaker Phoenix Ezendu, and award-winning author and journalist Nina Anyianuka.
Speaking at the event, Mofe-Damijo, who chairs the MMELI Arts Foundation, emphasised the need to build sustainable structures that can amplify African voices on the global stage. He noted that while talent is abundant, institutional support remains critical to translating creative potential into measurable impact.
Also addressing participants, Victor Mark-Onyegbu of Africa No Filter highlighted the role of storytelling in shaping global perceptions of Africa. He encouraged participants to produce authentic narratives that challenge stereotypes and reflect the continent’s realities.
Founded by Anyianuka, the MMELI Arts Foundation focuses on cultural development and professional growth within the creative industry. She explained that the workshop was designed to instil discipline and intentionality in 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, adding that the programme seeks to help writers transition from private creativity to public authorship.
The event drew support from corporate and institutional partners, including Nestlé Nigeria and Rite Foods, alongside Alliance Française Lagos and Africa No Filter.
Participants described the workshop as impactful, citing its blend of creative inspiration and practical guidance. Television and screenwriter Dorothy Ughenu noted that the programme provided a supportive space for women storytellers while offering frameworks to strengthen both creative output and earning potential.
Organisers said additional workshops and opportunities for writers will be announced in the coming weeks, as part of ongoing efforts to deepen engagement within Nigeria’s creative ecosystem.