Apostle Abayomi Oduneye, founder of Harvest Point Ministry in Houston, Texas, is on a mission to promote Yoruba language and culture abroad. In an interview with Punch Newspapers, Oduneye discussed his childhood and his passion for preserving indigenous language and culture [aa9a6959].
Born in Jos, Nigeria in 1953, Oduneye later moved to Ghana before eventually settling in the United States. At the age of 16, he accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior and became a pastor in The Apostolic Church. After moving to the United States, he was officially ordained as a minister [aa9a6959].
Oduneye's efforts to promote the Yoruba language and culture in the US have gained recognition. He has translated the American citizenship test into Yoruba and received acknowledgment from the US government. He encourages Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute to Nigeria's economic development and advocates for the preservation of Yoruba language and culture [aa9a6959].
One of Oduneye's upcoming initiatives is a program that combines Yoruba culture and Christianity to educate Nigerian Christians on the use of local languages in worship. He believes that promoting culture is crucial in countering the effects of colonization. Oduneye calls on the media and opinion leaders to support initiatives for cultural preservation and economic development [aa9a6959].
Abe Ogunlende, a Nigerian contemporary artist, is gaining recognition for his unique style and artistic vision. In an interview with MoreBranches, Ogunlende discusses his inspiration and artistic process. He describes his works as simple compositions that capture the essence of something in a simplified way. Ogunlende incorporates polka dots, dark-skin portraiture, and pastel colors into his paintings, with pastel tones having an effect on people's well-being [da2c39b6].
Ogunlende recently collaborated with Nigerian fashion brand Dye Lab on an exhibition titled 'It's Always Beautiful At Home.' The exhibition explores the beauty in everyday moments and showcases Ogunlende's unique style and use of pastel colors. He also shares his plans for an upcoming exhibition in France called 'Early to the Party' and expresses his interest in exploring monumental sculptures in the future [da2c39b6].
Femi Olajire Akande, an artist who creates terracotta female figures that embody gratitude and devotion, is also advocating for peace through art. Akande believes that art has the power to create understanding and inclusivity, and he promotes peacework art programs. He envisions international art exhibitions that foster cultural exchange and collaborative artworks promoting harmony and diversity. Akande plans to involve the community through art-based educational programs, workshops, public art installations, and peace-themed art. He also recognizes the importance of public art installations and curated exhibitions in promoting unity and tolerance. Online platforms serve as a digital canvas for showcasing art that embodies peaceful ideals [7090d08a].