Damilola Solesi is an Animation Director, Producer, and Writer. She is also the Creative Director and CEO of Smids Animation Studios, which has significantly affected the global animation landscape through her visionary leadership and commitment to authentic African storytelling. Her critically acclaimed works including Boxed, Uyi, and the award-winning short film Hadu, which she directed and produced have captured international attention. Hadu has been celebrated with prestigious accolades, winning Best Animation at the Fak'ugesi Festival and AFRIFF (Africa International Film Festival). Additionally, her projects have been showcased at global festivals, including the ANIMAGE Festival in Brazil, the Silicon Valley African Film Festival in the United States, and the CINANIMA International Animated Film Festival in Portugal.
Damilola's dedication to pushing creative frontiers is reflected in her role as a Juror for the International Emmy Awards from 2020 to 2022 and her selection as MIPTV's "Producer To Watch" in 2020 and 2022. Her passion for uplifting African narratives continues to drive innovation in the animation industry worldwide.