David Oyelowo, the renowned award winning actor, has made his mark on the stage and screen. But has made it a life pursuit to put his best effort into his artform and his charity work. Oyelowo hosted the GEANCO Foundation’s Hollywood gala at the 1 Hotel in West Hollywood to raise money for women and children in Nigeria.
The event, co-hosted by Cynthia Erivo, brought together A list celebrities from the entertainment industry, with notable supporters including Oprah Winfrey, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Angelina Jolie, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Oyelowo has been involved with the organization since 2014. The GEANCO Foundation’s mission is to empower young women in Nigeria, particularly those affected by terrorism and gender inequality.
“If I decide to do something, I’m all in,” said Oyelowo. “And once I’m in, it’s less about quantity and acceleration, it’s more about quality and intention.” These young women are coming from dire situations where escape is not likely without help. “They’ve had to endure sexual violence, physical violence, marginalization, poverty, intense misogyny and sexism, coming out of all sorts of things.” The actor was inspired to help after the 2014 Chibook schoolgirl kidnapping in which almost 300 teenagers were taken hostage by the terrorist group Boko Haram.
In 2016, the actor created the David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship for Girls in the hopes it would provide opportunities for at-risk young women of color. The scholarship program offers a comprehensive package, covering full tuition, healthcare, leadership training, mental health support, and menstrual health support. By providing these essential resources, the foundation aims to equip the girls with the skills and knowledge necessary to become leaders in their communities.
The Hollywood event raised $150,000, money that will go directly to benefitting the future of Nigerian women and creating opportunities for higher education and advanced learning environments. The gala featured African-inspired food, Nigerian music, and a fun evening full of culture with a festive vibe.
Oyelowo is inspiring us all with his continued philanthropy and dedication to the support and empowerment of African young girls who strive for knowledge and learning. Education is a valuable tool and through Oyelowo’s tireless charity, he is providing opportunity for those underserved and vulnerable female communities who likely wouldn’t have had a chance to wield it.