Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) and the Mastercard Foundation have trained about 50,000 youths in theatre and creative arts.
Joseph Umoibom, Academy Lead at TAFTA, while speaking at the TAFTA Action Learning Project (TALP-X), stated that with the support of the Mastercard Foundation, TAFTA has trained approximately 50,000 youths across Lagos, Ogun, and Kano States.
“Many of our participants have never stood on such a platform before. To now see them write, script, and perform their own productions on Nigeria’s biggest theatre stage is proof of their boldness and growth,” Umoibom said.
He described the initiative as a celebration of talent, creativity, and teamwork, while highlighting the scale of the impact.
The creativity and achievements of young Nigerians trained in theatre and the creative arts were deployed through two original plays written and performed by Nigeria’s rising creative stars. The second play was performed by 400-level LASU students in the Department of Theatre and Creative Arts.
Speaking at the event, Afeez Oyetoro, Head of the Department of Theatre Arts at LASU, underscored the importance of bridging academic learning with real-world stage experience.
“TAFTA gives them the opportunity not only to learn theory, but also to experience professional stage performances. There’s a difference between having talent and having proper training, and that is what they are gaining here,” Oyetoro said.
The event also featured inspiring stories from TAFTA alumni who are already leaving their mark on the Nigerian creative space.
Happiness Adegbite, now an actor, filmmaker, and content creator, shared how the academy transformed his directionless beginnings into a purposeful career.
“TAFTA gave me structure. I went on to produce Broken Korean Steel Corridor, Letter to My Father, and The Last Boss to Freedom. Today, I mentor others, speak at career summits, and have even received recognition from the U.S. government. TAFTA made me believe the sky is only the starting point.”
Iluyasi Faith, a visual artist who transitioned into animation and digital arts, said, “I discovered TAFTA on Instagram, and what caught my attention was that it was free.
“I stayed consistent and today I’ve built a brand that inspires young women by combining arts and entrepreneurship. TAFTA and Mastercard Foundation gave me that platform,” she said.
Peter Friday, an aspiring filmmaker, emphasised TAFTA’s role in shaping his career, “I’ve always loved performing arts, but TAFTA gave me the structure and blueprint to create. My vision is to tell impact stories that not only entertain but also educate and resonate with society.”
Salma Hamlina, who overcame stereotypes to build an art business, said, “My experience at TAFTA was transformative. I now see myself not just as an artist, but as a businesswoman empowering other women.
“Women’s stories and skills are vital in building a richer, more inclusive creative economy. Your talent is your power, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise,” she noted.
