MAF, Alliance Française host storytelling workshop for women

By Imisioluwa Afunmiso

As part of activities marking International Women’s Day 2026, the MMELI Arts Foundation, in collaboration with Alliance Française de Lagos, has convened a storytelling intensive workshop aimed at empowering women writers and creatives to develop their craft, voice, and access to publishing opportunities.

The programme, titled Women, Words and Wealth, held in Ikoyi, Lagos, brought together female writers, filmmakers, and creatives for a practical training session focused on creative identity, voice development, and pathways to publication.

Facilitators at the workshop included storyteller and filmmaker Phoenix Ezendu; actor, writer and filmmaker Richard Mofe-Damijo; and award-winning author and journalist Nina Anyianuka.

Speaking at the event, Mofe-Damijo, who serves as chairman of MMELI Arts Foundation, said the initiative is designed to build structures that move African creatives from potential to global influence, stressing the importance of institutional support for talent development.

Also speaking, Victor Mark-Onyegbu of Africa No Filter noted that storytelling remains a powerful tool in reshaping global perceptions of Africa, urging participants to focus on authentic narratives that challenge stereotypes.

Founder of the foundation, Nina Anyianuka, said the programme was designed to promote discipline and structure in creative writing, adding that the goal is to help women transition from private expression to professional authorship capable of competing on global platforms.

Participants at the workshop described the session as impactful, noting that it provided both creative inspiration and practical guidance for building sustainable careers in storytelling.

The MMELI Arts Foundation said additional workshops and creative development opportunities will be announced in the coming weeks as part of its broader cultural empowerment programme for African creatives.