In a bid to nurture the creative talents of Nigerian youth and provide them with a platform to shine, the Honourable Okey Joe Foundation held its 2024 Valentine’s Day “Talent Hunt” event. Themed “Grooming Talents and Creating Opportunities for Our Youths to Excel”, the event brought together young individuals from various artistic backgrounds, showcasing their talents in poetry, drama, dance, music, and comedy.

The talent hunt, which was part of the foundation’s broader efforts to empower and support youth development, was graced by the presence of Hon. Prince Okey-Joe Jesse Onuakalusi, founder of the HOJ Foundation, and renowned Nigerian actor Mr. Kanayo O. Kanayo, who served as a guest judge and mentor to the young talents.

A Celebration of Creativity and Youth Potential

Participants from across Oshodi-Isolo and beyond took part in the event, competing in categories such as spoken word poetry, music performances, drama, and comedy skits. The goal was not only to showcase artistic talent but to provide young people with a space to express themselves, build confidence, and receive mentorship from established figures in the entertainment industry.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Okey-Joe emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and creating opportunities for youth to excel in their chosen fields: “Our youth are brimming with creativity and potential. It is our responsibility to give them the tools and platforms they need to succeed. Through this talent hunt, we hope to unlock doors of opportunity for these young talents, inspiring them to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions to society.”

Judges and Mentorship

Mr. Kanayo O. Kanayo, a highly respected figure in Nigerian cinema, offered words of encouragement and practical advice to the participants. He praised the initiative for creating a platform that celebrates the arts and provides young people with a chance to develop their talents.

“Talent is not enough; you must nurture it, work on your craft, and seize every opportunity to grow. This platform is one such opportunity, and I am proud to be part of this effort to uplift our young people,” Kanayo stated.

The panel of judges, which included professionals from the entertainment industry, provided constructive feedback to the contestants, helping them understand how to refine their skills and prepare for future opportunities.

Creating Opportunities Beyond the Stage

While the talent hunt was a competition, the HOJ Foundation’s vision goes beyond simply awarding prizes. The foundation aims to continue supporting the participants through future opportunities, mentorship, and skill-building workshops to help them grow both artistically and professionally. This aligns with the foundation’s commitment to empowering youth in Oshodi-Isolo and other parts of Nigeria, offering platforms for self-expression, personal growth, and economic independence.

Winners and Highlights

The event culminated in the announcement of winners in the various categories, with top performers receiving prizes, scholarships for creative programs, and access to mentorship opportunities. Among the standout performances were heartfelt spoken word pieces about love, resilience, and identity, as well as energetic dance performances and musical showcases that captivated the audience.

The winners were thrilled with the recognition and support, with many expressing their gratitude to the HOJ Foundation for creating an event that not only celebrates talent but also fosters a sense of community among young people.

Looking Ahead: A Future for Youth Empowerment

As the event came to a close, Hon. Okey-Joe reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to empowering the youth and called for continued support from the community and stakeholders to invest in the future of young Nigerians. He promised that the talent hunt would become an annual event, further establishing a tradition of nurturing young talents and providing opportunities for them to shine.

Through initiatives like the Valentine’s Day Talent Hunt, the Honourable Okey Joe Foundation continues to lead the way in fostering youth empowerment, providing them with the tools and platforms to not only dream but to achieve their aspirations.