The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, has called on members of the creative community to stay attuned to the ever-evolving societal dynamics to remain relevant and impactful. She made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the Quramo Festival of Words held recently at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The yearly festival, which attracted over 1,000 participants, celebrates creativity and cultural exchange among artists, writers, and other members of the creative industry. Since its inception in 2019, the event has served as a platform for showcasing Africa’s evolving cultural and creative landscapes while empowering diverse voices from across the continent. The Quramo Festival of Words continues to inspire creativity and promote cultural dialogue among participants from various parts of Africa.
QFest 2024 was packed with exciting highlights, starting with a tribute to the legendary Wole Soyinka in honour of his 90th birthday. The organiser screened two remarkable films capturing Soyinka’s enduring legacy: ‘Ebrohimie Road: A Museum of Memory’ and ‘The Man Died’. It also hosted Obi Asika in its Spotlight Conversation, where he delved into his journey as a creative leader in the arts and culture space.
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This year’s festival also included masterclasses from industry experts, insightful panel discussions, and film screenings that explore the intersections of storytelling, social impact, and creative innovation. In her speech, the Commissioner stressed that creativity and storytelling are essential tools for driving social change, fostering unity, and inspiring progress across the globe.
Benson-Awoyinka further said the theme of this year’s festival, “The Shifting: Empowering Voices, Inspiring Minds,” as representative of Africa’s dynamic and vibrant creative landscape, especially in the fields of arts, tourism, and culture. She reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the tourism and creative sectors, stating, “By fostering an environment where artists and creators can thrive, the government aims to promote cultural exchange and leverage the arts as a catalyst for social and economic development.”
On her part, the convener of the festival, Gbemi Sasore, expressed her appreciation to the Lagos State Government and the Commissioner for their continued support of the festival. “As we navigate this shifting landscape, we must continue to elevate diverse voices and stories.”
