Yeye Ajamufua: Driven by passion to celebrate African cultural heritage, empower underrepresented voices

Yeye Funmilayo Emily Ajamufua is an America-based Nigerian artiste with a rich blend of talents as a singer, actor, dancer, director, and costume designer. She is the Programmes Director of Bi-Okoto Drum & Dance Theatre, an esteemed African cultural institute in Ohio. She has significantly contributed to preserving and promoting African heritage through the arts. Recognising her expertise in the field, she was recently invited to serve as a panelist for the Ohio Arts Council’s ArtStart grant programme.

Her artistic journey was not really a cut out path. Though while growing up, she was always drawn to the arts, even when her initial dream was to pursue mass communication and become a broadcaster. Fate had other plans: She found herself naturally gravitating towards the arts, and it felt like a perfect fit.

“I think it’s because arts was already ingrained in me from a young age. My elder brother introduced me to the National Theatre when I was just eight years old, and the experience left an indelible mark on my memory. He was there for a rehearsal, and I was fascinated by the energy and creativity that filled the space. Additionally, my mom was part of an entertainment group during her time at Leventis store, so you could say that art was in my blood. As I grew older, I found it easy to learn and adapt to the world of arts, and I eventually fell in love with it. So, while I didn’t initially plan to become an artiste, I’m grateful that life led me down this path,” she confesses.

Growing up, she was always drawn to the spotlight, and her passion for dance and performance was evident from a young age. “Whenever I attended parties, I would eagerly participate in dance competitions and consistently place in the top 3. My confidence and stage presence were further honed through my involvement in the literary and debating society in secondary school, where I represented my school at various events,” the artist says.

Good music was what often triggered her, and she couldn’t help but dance whenever she heard a
rhythm, regardless of the audience.

“However, it wasn’t until I was older that I received formal training and guidance.”

“My passion for the arts began with dance, and I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to train with the renowned Aunty Sola Sobowale’s dance company, Grassroot. Under her guidance, I honed my skills alongside talented arts ambassadors like Muyiwa Osinaike (Bababe) and later with Gong Beat, led by Debo Alexander. The infectious beats of drummer Isioma Williams would transport me to new heights, fueling my creativity and dedication to my craft,” Yeye muses.

As she continued to grow and evolve as an artist, numerous opportunities presented themselves, and she gave her all to the profession. “With each experience, I refined my skills, paving the way for future successes. The journey eventually led me to audition for the Lagos State Arts Council, marking a significant milestone in my career.”

As a member of the Lagos State standing troupe, she had opportunity to represent the state and country at local and international festivals. Through this experience, she learned the value of discipline, hard work, and dedication.

“Today, I’m proud of the artist I’ve become. I continue to evolve and grow, embracing new challenges and opportunities with an open heart and mind,” she reveals.

The lady says: “When I first embarked on my artistic path, I was met with uncertainty and self-doubt. I questioned my abilities and wondered if my voice was worthy of being heard. Limited resources and cultural expectations added to the struggle, as I navigated the fine line between tradition and innovation. But I persevered, driven by a passion to create and share my story. With time, my confidence grew, and I found my unique voice.”

As an artist, she is driven by a passion to celebrate African cultural heritage and empower underrepresented voices. She retorts: “My art reflects my soul, deeply rooted in the traditions and stories of my community. I believe in the transformative power of creativity, and I strive to inspire, educate, and uplift through my work.”

With every beat, every movement, and every word, she pours her heart and soul into her art. She embraces collaboration and community engagement, knowing that together, “we can create something truly remarkable.”

Yeye Ajamufua attended Abeokuta Girls Grammar School in Ogun State and Titcombe College, Egbe, Kogi State. Afterwards, she pursued her higher education, earning: Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from the Lagos State University, a Certificate in Drama and Music from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ifẹ. She also earned a Certificate in English/Social Studies from the National Teachers Institute.

“My journey to obtaining a formal education was not without its challenges. During my time at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ife, I had to get creative to sustain myself and pay my school fees. I recall racking pool tables at New Buka and assisting my friend, Lady B, with her food business in Old Buka, packing plates, and washing them. My determination to succeed drove me to travel to Lagos every Friday, perform with Kola Ogunkoya’s Afrobeat band at Jazzville or other venues, and return to Ife by Monday morning to attend lectures,” she notes.

Through her art, she aims to leave a legacy that celebrates “our diversity, promotes cross-cultural understanding, and inspires future generations to embrace their creativity and individuality. I am an artist, a cultural advocate, and a storyteller, dedicated to making a positive impact on the world, one creative expression at a time.”

In the early days, she had to rely on her wit and resourcefulness to make ends meet. “I’ve always been mindful of staying true to my artistic vision and not compromising my values for financial gain.”

Just recently, she was honoured to receive an award from the Guild of Theatre Arts Drummers, recognising her contributions to the field. “I’m also proud to serve as the Director of Youth and Women Empowerment, where I can channel my passion for empowering others,” she notes.

“Through it all, I’ve remained committed to my artistic vision, resisting external pressures and staying true to my values. My creative journey has been a winding path, filled with twists and turns, but it’s also been a transformative and fulfilling experience,” she quips.

Her staying power?
She believes that to be a great artiste, you must possess a combination of qualities that fuel your creative journey. She says, “passion is the driving force that sets the artistic process in motion. It’s the spark that ignites the flame of creativity, pushing the artiste to continually produce and improve.”

Yeye explain: “Staying creative and innovative in a competitive industry requires constant learning and adaptation. I have had to continually push myself to innovate and stay relevant. I seek out collaborations and partnerships to expand my reach and impact. Time management becomes crucial, as I balance multiple projects and responsibilities.”

Her journey as a dancer, actor, and manager has been a whirlwind of creativity, growth, and perseverance. On one hand, she has also been blessed to express myself through movement and storytelling, connecting with audiences and communities in profound ways. “I’ve had the privilege of bringing characters to life, evoking emotions, and sparking important conversations. On the other hand, the path has not been without its challenges. Juggling multiple roles and responsibilities can be overwhelming at times. The physical demands of dancing and performing take a toll on my body, while the emotional demands of portraying characters and managing stress can be exhausting,” she says.

Blending African arts in the United States required intentionality, creativity, and dedication. She sought out like-minded individuals and organisations, learned about local culture and artistic traditions, and fused African arts through collaborations, workshops, and performances. By emphasising universal themes and emotions, she bridged cultural gaps and fostered appreciation for African arts, addressing misconceptions and stereotypes through education and cultural immersion.

When she first arrived in the United States, she encountered an array of challenges and cultural shocks that tested her resilience. The language barrier was daunting, as she struggled to adjust to a new language and accent. Adapting to American customs, norms, and values was also a significant hurdle, as she navigated unfamiliar cultural terrain.

Homesickness and loneliness also weighed heavily on me, as I missed the familiarity of family and friends I had known for decades back home. Furthermore, she had to contend with stereotypes and misconceptions about Africa and its cultures, working to overcome preconceived notions and forge a new understanding. Perhaps most importantly, she had to balance her cultural identity, carefully maintaining her African heritage while embracing American culture. Despite these formidable challenges, she persevered, learned, and grew from these experiences, emerging stronger and more resilient.

“Bi-Okoto provided a valuable platform for me to share my passion for African arts and culture. I’ve discovered a genuine interest in this knowledge and am committed to sharing it, viewing each interaction as a teachable moment. My determination helps me maintain patience and passion, even in the face of challenges. By staying focused on my goals and true to my vision, I effectively share the beauty and significance of African culture, inspiring a deeper understanding and appreciation, and creating a more inclusive cultural landscape,” she points out.

Lately, she has been involved in several exciting projects lately! Here are a few highlights:
Okoto Kekere: A pre-professional performance group has been busy preparing for performances as they come. She has also been involved in mentorship programmes. “I’ve been guiding a new cohort of young artists, helping them develop their skills and find their unique voices.”

How do you want to be remembered?
She draws a long laugh and says, “I would like to be remembered as a passionate and dedicated artist, cultural advocate, and mentor who made a positive impact on my community and the world at large. I hope to be remembered for: My contributions to the preservation and promotion of our rich cultural heritage, Inspiring and empowering young artists to find their voice and pursue their dream, Using my platform to raise awareness about social and environmental issues, Fostering cross-cultural understanding and exchange through my work, Leaving a legacy of love, creativity, and resilience that continues to inspire future generations, and most importantly, I want to be remembered as a kind and compassionate person who touched hearts and minds through my art and my presence.”

Any regrets?
“No regrets, as every experience has led me to where I am today,” she admits. Her advice for budding artists, especially the female folk?

My advice for budding artists, especially the female folk? “I guess it would be: Believe in yourself: Trust your vision, voice, and creative expression. Stay true to your art: Authenticity is key to standing out in a crowded industry. Embrace your uniqueness: Celebrate what sets you apart and makes your art distinctive.”

As if she has a long list which she is reeling out, she says: “Be resilient: Face rejection and criticism with courage and perseverance. Support one another: Foster a community of female artists who uplift and empower each other. Take ownership of your craft: Continuously learn, grow, and hone your skills. Break barriers: Push boundaries and challenge societal norms through your art. Stay inspired: Draw from your experiences, culture, and passions to fuel your creativity.”

She concludes, “keep creating: Consistency and persistence are essential to achieving success and making a lasting impact. Remember, your art is a powerful tool for self-expression, empowerment, and change. Own your voice, and never let anyone dull your sparkle!”