…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended an invitation to esteemed Nollywood actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD) and renowned filmmakers Kunle Afolayan, Jade Osiberu, CJ Obasi, and screenwriter Shola Dada to join its Oscars voting membership team.
Announcement of Invitation to 398 Individuals Signals Progress in Representation
The prestigious award-dispensing group recently announced the invitation of a total of 398 individuals, which includes the Nigerian talents.
This move reflects the Academy’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity.
Notable Nigerians Invited across Various Categories
Richard Mofe-Damijo received his invitation in the actors category, while Kunle Afolayan, whose film “Anikulapo” was not selected by the Nigerian Official Selection Committee last year, was invited in the writers category.
Jade Osiberu and CJ Obasi were invited in the producers and directors categories, respectively.
Screenwriter Shola Dada, known for her work on Afolayan’s films “Roti” and “Anikulapo,” also received an invitation in the writers category.
Joining Prominent Nigerian Filmmakers and Artists
These five Nigerian talents will join the ranks of notable compatriots such as Newton Aduaka, Tunde Kelani, Funke Akindele, Daniel K. Daniel, Blessing Egbe, Ramsey Nouah, Mo Abudu, Andrew Dosunmu, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Femi Odugbemi, Akin Omotoso, and Genevieve Nnaji as Oscars voting members.
Additionally, diasporan talents including Chinonye Chukwu, Wunmi Mosaku, Ngozi Onwurah, Cynthia Erivo, and Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje have also been invited.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The Academy emphasized that the new member invitations aim to increase representation, inclusion, and equity.
The selection process considers professional qualifications and aims to foster a diverse membership.
The latest additions consist of 40% women, 34% individuals from underrepresented ethnic or racial communities, and 52% from 50 countries and territories outside the United States.
Recognizing Accomplishments and Impact
Among the 398 invitees, there are 22 Oscar winners and 76 nominees, demonstrating the immense talent and contributions of the artists.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang expressed their pride in welcoming these exceptional individuals, acknowledging their profound impact on the arts and sciences of motion pictures and their influence on movie enthusiasts worldwide.
Further Progress in Diversifying the Academy
With the acceptance of all 398 invitees, the Academy’s total number of voting members will rise to 9,375, with 34% being female, 18% non-white, and 20% non-American.
This continued effort to diversify the membership is a response to the #OscarsSoWhite controversy in 2015, reflecting the Academy’s commitment to positive change and inclusivity in the film industry.