About Us

The Nelas Academy of Arts, Media and Television (Nelas Academy) is an international creative organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the arts, film, television, media, leadership, and cultural development. Established in 2003, the Academy serves as a platform for discovering talent, recognizing outstanding achievements, fostering international collaborations, and promoting African culture and creative industries on the global stage.

To become one of the world’s leading creative institutions that empowers artists, filmmakers, media professionals and cultural ambassadors while promoting peace, education, innovation, and international cultural exchange.

  • Discover and nurture emerging talents in film, television, media, and the creative arts.
  • Celebrate excellence through internationally recognized awards.
  • Promote African stories and cultures globally.
  • Create opportunities for education, networking, and professional development.
  • Build partnerships between Africa and the international creative community.

The Nelas Academy operates several flagship initiatives, including:

  • Nelas Academy Awards (Nelas Awards) – An international awards platform recognizing excellence in filmmaking, leadership, entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, and media.
  • Nelas International Film Festival (NIFF) – A festival showcasing films from around the world while encouraging international collaboration.
  • Queen of Nollywood – A television and talent development platform promoting young women in entertainment, leadership, and cultural advocacy.
  • Africa–Eurasia Cultural Exchange & Creative Industries Summit – An international platform dedicated to strengthening cultural diplomacy, creative industry collaboration, tourism, education, investment, and sustainable partnerships.
  • The 100 Most Inspirational People in the World – An annual publication recognizing individuals making exceptional contributions to humanity.
  • Film and Television Production – Production of feature films, documentaries, television series, and educational media content.

The Academy promotes:

  • Film production
  • Television production
  • Media and broadcasting
  • Creative entrepreneurship
  • Leadership development
  • Cultural diplomacy
  • International cultural exchange
  • Youth empowerment
  • Talent discovery
  • Arts education
  • Humanitarian recognition

Over the years, the Academy has organized or participated in creative and cultural activities in several countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Turkey, South Africa, Nigeria, Russia, India, Canada, Italy, Switzerland, Egypt, and the Philippines, strengthening international cultural cooperation.

The Academy is led by Ambassador Frank Ikegwuonu, a Nigerian filmmaker, publisher, and creative entrepreneur who has produced numerous films and established multiple initiatives to promote African cinema and global cultural engagement.

  • Excellence
  • Creativity
  • Integrity
  • Innovation
  • Professionalism
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Leadership
  • Collaboration
  • Social Impact

The Academy aims to:

Position Africa as a global hub for storytelling and cultural innovation.

Develop internationally competitive African creative professionals.

Support education, skills acquisition, and youth employment in the creative industries.

Create sustainable opportunities for filmmakers and artists.

Encourage co-productions between Africa and other regions.

Promote cultural tourism through film and creative events.