Ifeoma Fafunwa

Ifeoma Fafunwa is a theatre director, playwright, and creative activist whose work explores the intersection of performance art and social change. As the founder and creative director of iOpenEye Africa Foundation, Fafunwa has led initiatives that utilize theatre to address social, cultural, and political issues, with a particular focus on the experiences of women and girls in Nigeria. Her work, "HEAR WORD! Naija Women Talk True," is a collection of monologues based on true-life stories of Nigerian women. The production has reached more than 120,000 audience members worldwide and has received critical attention from major publications including The New York Times and The Boston Globe.

Fafunwa's career includes international appearances and collaborations. She directed one of Nigeria’s cultural submissions for the London Olympics and has presented her work at venues such as Harvard University, American Repertory Theatre, Tate Modern, and the Edinburgh International Festival. Her creative activism is also featured in the documentary "MrsF" on Al Jazeera, expanding her influence beyond the stage. In addition to directing and writing, Fafunwa facilitates pro-bono acting and storytelling workshops, supporting the development of socially conscious artists.

Fafunwa has received recognition through awards and fellowships, including the McNulty Foundation Catalyst Prize, MIT Media Lab Director’s Fellowship, Aspen Institute Global Leadership Fellowship, and inclusion among the "12 Artists Who Changed the World." Her commitment to gender equality and empowerment, combined with her innovative approach to theatre, positions Fafunwa as a prominent figure in global discussions on social justice and the transformative role of the arts.