Damilola Solesi is an acclaimed Animation Director, Producer, and Writer, and the Creative Director/CEO of Smids Animation Studios. Through her visionary leadership, she continues to shape the global animation landscape while championing authentic African storytelling. Her critically acclaimed works—including Boxed, Uyi, and the award-winning short film Hadu—have earned international recognition and prestigious honors, including Best Animation at the Fak’ugesi Festival and the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF). Her projects have been showcased at major festivals such as the International Film Festival Rotterdam, NollywoodWeek Film Festival, New York International Children’s Festival, FESPACO, ANIMAGE Festival in Brazil, Silicon Valley African Film Festival, and CINANIMA International Animated Film Festival in Portugal. A passionate advocate for creative growth and representation, Damilola served as a Juror for the International Emmy Awards (2020–2022) and was named MIPTV’s Producer to Watch in 2020 and 2022—reflecting her commitment to uplifting new voices and expanding opportunities for women in animation.