Essence Festival of Culture ’23: New Orleans Mayor Cantrell Welcomes Nollywood

July 2, 2023

Essence Festival of Culture ’23 is well underway and the impressive lineup of activities kicked off with a special invite. Mayor Latoya Cantrell, New Orleans’ first black woman Mayor invited guests to a warm welcome as they kicked off this year’s Essence Fest activities, and took a look at Hip Hop’s 50-year run.

This event is ahead of its first-ever Nigeria Day in partnership with That Good Media, taking place on Saturday 1st July 2023, which seeks to highlight the achievements of Nollywood and foster a working relationship between Nollywood and the rest of the world, starting with New Orleans.

Some of Nigerian entertainment’s finest including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Stella Damasus, Daniel Etim Effiong, Toyisi Etim Effiong, Shade Ladipo, Tosin Ajibade, Yolanda Okereke and more were just a few notable guests.

Speaking on future opportunities, Mayor Cantrell expressed support for initiatives for New Orleans to partner with the Nollywood movie industry and other Nigerians in the diaspora. This spells major advancement for Nollywood and the chance to promote African storytelling.