The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, emphasized the critical role that culture, art, and creativity play in shaping societies during her opening remarks at the eighth edition of the Quramo Festival in Lagos. She underlined that these elements are foundational not only in sustaining traditional societies but also in determining the trajectory of future societies. Describing the Quramo Festival, or Qfest, as more than just a celebratory event, she articulated its essence as a movement that unites individuals from various backgrounds to engage in the art of storytelling. This festival represents a convergence of cultures that collectively enrich the tapestry of human experience, echoing the belief that art and storytelling are potent vehicles for social cohesion and enlightenment.
Gbemi Shashore, the Chief Executive Officer of Quramo Publishing, reinforced the transformative power of storytelling, a central theme of the festival. He articulated the view that stories can challenge and inspire individuals while offering deeper insight into the human condition. Shashore pointed out that the Quramo Writer’s Prize serves a dual purpose: it honors and celebrates the resilience, creativity, and bravery of young African writers and storytellers. By recognizing their contributions, the prize fosters a culture of artistic expression and acknowledges the importance of nurturing young talent in the creatively rich continent.
Highlighting the personal journeys of writers, self-taught illustrator Oluwalànu Agusto encouraged aspiring authors to pursue their craft with unwavering dedication. She reassured them that success does not come overnight and that perseverance is key in mastering any skill, including writing. Her experience informs her belief that talent is often developed through consistent practice rather than inherent ability. Agusto’s insights serve as a motivational call to action, urging emerging writers not to be disheartened by challenges or comparisons with others but to commit to their growth and development over time.
Reinforcing the commitment to the arts and creative sectors, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently reiterated the government’s support for these industries. His administration’s dedication is manifested through various initiatives aimed at training, workforce development, and the promotion of artistic endeavors. The governor’s attendance at the stage play “Kurunmi,” written by the late Prof. Ola Rotimi, showcased his personal investment in the arts while signaling the importance of cultural appreciation within the state’s governance strategy. His support reflects a broader understanding of the arts not only as a platform for entertainment but as a means to foster community and economic development.
The Quramo Festival stands as a testament to the ongoing transformation and celebration of narratives that resonate within post-colonial African contexts. By engaging diverse audiences through storytelling, this event facilitates cross-cultural exchanges and dialogues important for collective identity while also serving as a platform for emerging voices in the literary scene. The festival’s role in promoting artistic engagement highlights its potential to spark vital conversations around identity, creativity, and the power of individual stories in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Ultimately, events like the Quramo Festival underscore the significance of the arts as a resource for cultural expression and societal advancement. As noted by both Awoyinka and Shashore, storytelling has the power not just to entertain but to challenge societal norms and inspire change. Through continued investment in the arts by local governments, as demonstrated by Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitments, the creative sectors can thrive, providing a foundation for innovation and growth. This commitment to nurturing talent, as echoed by writers like Agusto, is crucial for ensuring that the next generation of storytellers is equipped to contribute to the vibrant cultural narrative of Lagos and beyond.
