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Afriwood Studios Celebrates African Heroes in Comics This Black History Month
As Black History Month is observed globally, Afriwood Studios, an African-led creative studio founded by Newark-based storyteller Urenna Amadi, is spotlighting African narratives through a special initiative titled “Afriwood: Celebrating African Heroes in Comics.”
The initiative highlights Afriwood Studios’ mission to tell original African stories through comics — stories that center African identity, resilience, imagination, and cultural pride. Through its expanding comic universe, the studio is celebrating African heroism in its many forms, from courage and creativity to healing, spirituality, and community.
Throughout Black History Month, Afriwood Studios is showcasing key characters from its comic universe, including Shutter-Bird, Nigeria’s first homegrown superhero known for her focus and creative power; Udo, a young hero driven by courage and heart; Ije, a psychologist and mental-health-focused hero who represents healing, empathy, and emotional strength; and Ndanne, a divine guardian figure symbolizing innocence, memory, compassion, and protection.
Together, these characters reflect Afriwood Studios’ broader vision of African storytelling — reinforcing the importance of African voices, perspectives, and imagination within the global comics space. Each character embodies values deeply rooted in African life while addressing universal human experiences.
Speaking on the initiative, founder Urenna Amadi emphasized the importance of representation and cultural ownership in storytelling.
“Black History Month is not only about remembering the past — it’s also about shaping the future,” Amadi said. “Through Afriwood, we’re creating African heroes who reflect our realities, our struggles, our healing, and our strength. These stories matter, and they deserve to be seen globally.”
Founded to expand African representation in comics and visual storytelling, Afriwood Studios continues to build an original African-centered universe that connects Africa and the diaspora. With projects spanning comics, animation, and educational storytelling, the studio is positioning African narratives at the center of contemporary pop culture.
As Black History Month continues, “Afriwood: Celebrating African Heroes in Comics” stands as both a tribute and a statement — honoring African heritage while affirming the future of African storytelling on the global stage.
