Imagine being so good at something that the whole world notices you. That’s precisely what happened to Simisola Gbadamosi.
Simisola Gbadamosi is a young and talented Nigerian voice actress who has made history with her incredible work in animation. Even though she is just 13 years old, she has already been nominated for an Emmy Award!
That’s a big deal because the Emmy Awards celebrate the best performances in television. Her role as Tola in Disney’s animated series Iwájú has captured the hearts of many, proving that young African voices can shine on the world stage.
She started as a regular girl in Nigeria who loved acting and telling stories, and now she is recognised for her exceptional talent. Her story is about hard work, passion, and believing in yourself, regardless of age.
In this article, we will examine her journey, her role in Iwájú, what her Emmy nomination means, and why this moment is so important for African voice actors.
Early Life and Career Journey of Simisola Gbadamosi
Simisola Gbadamosi was born on April 17, 2011, in Washington, D.C., USA, to Nigerian parents, Foluso and Leye Gbadamosi. She is the first of two children and has a younger sibling, Tumininu Gbadamosi.
Even as a child, Simisola displayed a remarkable passion for the arts. At the tender age of five, she embarked on an entrepreneurial journey by establishing “Simi’s Bakehouse,” a small baking business where she crafted delicious cookies and brownies.
Her effort was not just about baking; she generously donated some of her profits to charities supporting underprivileged children, showcasing her compassionate spirit.
Simisola’s entry into the world of entertainment was marked by her natural talent for storytelling and performance. Participating in school plays and local drama clubs, she captivated audiences with her expressive voice and emotional delivery.
Her dedication to developing her skill bore fruit when she auditioned for the role of Tola in “Iwájú,” a collaborative animated series by Disney Animation and the Pan-African company Kugali Media. Despite her young age, Simisola’s audition stood out, leading to her casting as the lead character.
Her outstanding performance as Tola in Iwájú earned her a historic achievement. She became the youngest Nigerian Emmy nominee in history, marking an important milestone in her career.
Simisola Gbadamosi Role in Iwájú and Her Emmy Nominations
In “Iwájú,” Simisola Gbadamosi voices Tola Martins, a young girl from an affluent island in a futuristic Lagos. The series, which premiered on February 28, 2024, follows Tola and her friend Kole, a self-taught tech expert, as they discover the secrets and challenges of their contrasting worlds.
Simisola’s portrayal of Tola has been praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, which brought the character to life.
Because of her exceptional performance, she earned a nomination for “Outstanding Younger Voice Performer in a Preschool, Children’s, or Young Teen Program” at the 3rd Annual Children’s & Family Emmy Awards. The awards ceremony was held on March 15, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. It was indeed a sight to behold.
Simisola Gbadamosi: Emmy Nomination Significance & Career Wins
Simisola Gbadamosi’s Emmy nomination is not just a personal achievement. It is a massive moment for Nigeria, Africa, and young voice actors everywhere. It marks a significant step forward for African representation in international animation.
By being the youngest Nigerian to receive an Emmy nomination, Simisola is proof that talent has no age limit. This outstanding achievement proves that young Africans can shine on big stages and compete with the best in the industry.
Seeing Simisola Gbadamosi succeed sends a clear message: with dedication and the right opportunities, African children can make a global impact in the entertainment industry.
Her Triumphs and Achievements
- Being cast in “Iwájú”: Out of many young actors, she was chosen for the role of Tola, proving her exceptional talent.
- Receiving an Emmy nomination: This is one of the most significant recognitions an actor can get.
- Inspiring a new generation: Many young African actors now look up to her, hoping to follow in her footsteps.
- Bringing African culture to the world: Her work in Iwájú introduces global audiences to Nigerian life, culture, and traditions
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Simisola Gbadamosi’s Emmy Win: Impact on African Voice Actors
Simisola Gbadamosi’s success is a massive moment for African voice actors. Many voice roles in international movies and TV shows were given to non-Africans for a long time. But now, with Iwájú and her nomination, more people see that African actors can tell African stories in the best way possible.
Her nomination will likely encourage big animation studios to create more projects featuring African voices and cultures. It may also inspire more African kids to explore careers in voice acting, knowing that it is possible to succeed on the world stage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Simisola Gbadamosi?
Simisola Gbadamosi is a Nigerian voice actress known for her role as Tola Martins in Disney’s animated series Iwájú. She gained international recognition after receiving an Emmy nomination for her outstanding performance.
2. What is Iwájú About?
Iwájú is a Disney animated series set in a futuristic Lagos, Nigeria. It follows the story of Tola, a wealthy young girl, and her best friend Kole, a tech-savvy boy from the mainland, going through societal divides and exciting adventures.
3. Has Simisola Gbadamosi acted in other movies or TV shows?
Currently, Iwájú is her most notable project, but given her talent and rising fame, she is likely to take on more roles in the future.
4. How old is Simisola Gbadamosi?
As of 2024, Simisola Gbadamosi is 13 years old.
Final Thoughts on Simisola Gbadamosi Emmy Nominations
Simisola Gbadamosi’s journey is inspiring, from a young girl in Lagos who loved acting to an Emmy-nominated voice actress. Her story proves that dreams come true once there’s hard work and determination.
Simisola Gbadamosi’s role as Tola in Iwájú has not only made her a household name but also brought pride to Nigeria and Africa. By lending her voice to a story representing her culture, Simisola has shown the world the beauty of African storytelling.
If you’re a young African child who dreams of acting or storytelling, Simisola Gbadamosi’s journey proves that your voice matters. One day, you too could be nominated for an Emmy, just like Simisola.
