Akwa Ibom Talent Foundation has concluded plans to bring renowned talent scout Simon Cowell to Uyo to mentor local artists and promote their talents to a global audience.
The foundation, a United States-based charity, aims to support the development of new talent and build a thriving arts community in Akwa Ibom State.
In a press conference, which was also broadcast virtually and held at the Foundation’s headquarters in Uyo, the State capital, Bishop Daniel Jack announced his plans to expand the opportunities available to Akwa Ibom’s artists.
Jack, the Foundation’s President and Facilitator of the talent show, explained that the goal of the talent show is to provide a global platform for Akwa Ibom’s artists to share their work with the world.
The Cleric noted that the creative industry was one of the fastest-growing in the world, hence, he needed more AkwaIbomites and Nigerians to tap into the global goldmine to create gainful impact in the society, adding that the winner of the talent hunt would have the opportunity to travel to any country of choice.
” Akwa Ibom Talent Show is a vision that was generated in the United States of America, we decided to bring the vision to Nigeria and Akwa Ibom precisely to benefit the people. We are here to sponsor the people and to ensure that we give them the needed platform to shine and excel.
“I am calling on Akwa Ibomites and Nigerians to come out and be a part of this opportunity to realize their dreams. I have been in the sector for quite a long time and I can tell you that Nigerians and even Akwa Ibomites are so talented but do not have the needed platforms to showcase them, that is why we are coming in to support and grow them,” he said.
He revealed that forms would be out on sale from September 18, while the auditioning and main event is billed to commence from October 15- 17, 2023.
Also speaking, Ambassador Aniekan Essien, International Coordinator of Media for the talent show, lauded the initiative as a necessary development for promoting Akwa Ibom people and Nigerians to the global stage.
Essien also revealed that the talent show’s top prize includes a cash prize of one million naira, a trip to a country of choice, and music recording deals for runners-up, stressing that the talent show is designed to support the success of Akwa Ibom’s talented artists, both at home and abroad.
Amb. Essien, who founded Akwa Ibom Reconcile, noted that the talent show will not only unite people but will also promote tourism and development in the state and country.
He urged all creative minds and talented individuals to seize this opportunity and showcase their abilities.
With this talent show, Essien maintained that Akwa Ibom’s artists will have a platform to share their work with the world, and the state will reap the benefits of increased exposure and interest.
