For over three decades, Yeye Funmilayo Emily Ajamufua has transformed her passion for African cultural arts into a global mission that goes far beyond a simple career. This Nigerian-born cultural artist, dancer, and drummer has dedicated her life to promoting the richness of West African traditions from her base in Cincinnati, Ohio.
A Lifelong Mission Rooted in Culture
Yeye Funmilayo's journey began with the questions and misunderstandings people had about African culture. She realized that the only way to truly understand any culture is to experience it directly. Through the powerful mediums of drumming, dance, and storytelling, she demonstrates the depth and vibrancy of African heritage. Changing incorrect narratives and allowing people to emotionally connect with African traditions has been her driving force for more than thirty years.
She describes her work as more than a profession—it's her life. The arts have shaped her identity, taught her valuable lessons, and taken her to places she never imagined. Every rhythm she plays and every dance she teaches represents a story, a connection to history, and a bridge to the future.
Academic Foundation Meets Artistic Passion
Her formal education in Dramatic Arts and Music provided the tools to tell stories with precision and heart. Studying at both Obafemi Awolowo University and Lagos State University taught her how to structure performances and communicate emotions that transcend words. More importantly, it gave her the language to translate African traditions into performances that resonate with diverse audiences while honoring their authentic roots.
Funmilayo had already been a practicing artist before pursuing higher education. Returning to school felt like refining a natural gift, deepening her understanding of history, theory, and the academic dimensions of the arts. She had the privilege of learning from veteran actors like Dr. Kola Oyewo, gaining insights that continue to influence her artistry today.
Impactful Projects and Cultural Preservation
As Programs Director at Bi-Okoto Drum and Dance Theatre, Funmilayo has led several transformative initiatives. The "Images of Afrika" Summer Camp provides children with immersive experiences in African drumming, dance, and storytelling. Many participants arrive uncertain about their cultural identity but leave confident and proud.
The "E Si Mi d'Afrika" residency takes cultural immersion even deeper, allowing children to live and breathe African arts. Here, they don't just learn movements—they experience the culture, history, and stories behind every rhythm. Another significant initiative is the African Drum and Dance Club at schools, where students have performed confidently before audiences exceeding 2,000 people.
For Funmilayo, drumming and dancing represent living forms of storytelling and cultural preservation. They carry ancestral voices, historical lessons, and the heartbeat of communities. Each performance serves as both celebration and reminder that African culture remains alive, relevant, and worthy of being passed to future generations.
Recognition and Ongoing Legacy
Her extensive contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Alimosho Creative Apex Award, APNET Community Engagement Award (2021), and recognition from Creative Ohio and The Cultured Female Percussionist. Under her leadership, Bi-Okoto received the Whole Again Best Site Award in both 2022 and 2023.
Beyond her artistic work, she serves as Director of Youth and Women Development for the Guild of Theatre Arts Drummers and maintains membership in NANTAP and the Guild of Nigerian Dancers.
When asked what being a Woman of Rubies means to her, Funmilayo emphasizes resilience, passion, and purpose. It's about shining during challenging times, staying authentic, and using one's gifts to uplift others. She finds inspiration in her mother's strength, Professor Zulu Sofola's trailblazing work in Nigerian theatre, and Mama Taiwo Ajai-Lycett's enduring impact in theatre and film.
Through her artistry and mentorship, Yeye Funmilayo Ajamufua continues to inspire global appreciation for West African culture while ensuring traditional arts thrive for generations to come.
