We were lucky to catch up with Ayodeji Otuyelu recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ayodeji, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?
I believe that everything unfolds in its own time, much like the seasons, as long as you’re prepared for it. However, if I could go back, I would have launched my creative career much sooner.
As an immigrant in New York City, I dedicated my first three years to surviving, rediscovering myself, and securing my residency permit. Yet, in 2020, I harnessed the courage and time to publish my first book, “Words in My Head.” By 2022, my first film, “Unsaid,” premiered at Soho House in New York City, and it successfully screened at various film festivals across the country, winning multiple awards.
I currently have four short films completed, and I am in the midst of filming my next project, “Bad Hair.” This powerful short film celebrates the beauty of Black men and boldly asserts that it is entirely acceptable for a man to recognize and appreciate beauty in another man. Additionally, I am poised to debut my feature film, “Somewhere in the Park,” soon.
Had I started sooner, I would have channeled all the time I spent on trivial pursuits into my creative endeavors. While I recognize my past hesitations, I am committed to making my mark now.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Ayodeji Otuyelu (He/Him), and I am a queer filmmaker and writer from Nigeria. My journey began with my role in the HBO documentary “Legends of the Underground,” which highlights the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria. Following that, I self-published my first poetry book, “Words in My Head,” which was later adapted into my first short experimental film, “Unsaid.” This film addresses themes such as homosexual relationships, feminism, and the celebration of Black identity. It won multiple awards, including Best Experimental Film at the Open World Toronto Film Festival and recognition as a finalist for Best Short LGBTQ Filmmaker at the Next Generation Indie Film Awards, among others.
My second short film, “The Outlandish,” celebrates the freedom of transgender women of color. It premiered at Outfest LA and was screened at the Schomburg Center in New York City for Trans Awareness Day.
I am currently working on my new short narrative film, “Bad Hair.” This film focuses on the Black queer African experience, both within Nigeria and abroad. I want the story of my community to be told beautifully, highlighting the joy that exists alongside the trauma often portrayed in media.
I am also in the process of fundraising for my debut feature film, “Somewhere in the Park is My Love Letter.” This film aims to show the struggles of LGBTQ+ Nigerians seeking asylum in America as they navigate their quest for home and love among Black Americans while healing from past and present traumas.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist for me is the ability to express my truth through my work. It becomes even more fulfilling when my art helps others find and live their truth and advocate for my community.
An example of this was when a 14-year-old Black girl in Harlem watched my first film and shared how it helped her overcome her insecurities. I receive many stories like this, and it feels incredibly gratifying to know that my contributions to the world have a meaningful impact.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Oh my! Society has a vital role in supporting creatives at every stage. Think of it like a pregnant woman; as her pregnancy progresses, she needs support not only from family but from the community around her. This includes the passengers who willingly give up their seats and the strangers who let you go ahead in line.
Getting our art noticed is already a daunting task. Financial backing, encouragement, empathy, and simply showing up can make all the difference.
Fundraising has always been a daunting hurdle. People often say, “No one cares about African gay stories.” But I care—and so do countless others. Navigating life as a Nigerian and gay poses unique challenges, yet it can also be a source of incredible strength. A broader understanding of these stories is essential, and every bit of support matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ayodejiotuyelu.com
- Instagram: info@ayodejiotuyelu.com
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- Linkedin: info@ayodejiotuyelu.com
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- Youtube: info@ayodejiotuyelu.com
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- Soundcloud: info@ayodejiotuyelu.com
