By Henry Akubuiro
Still in the euphoria of his Member of the Order of the British Empire MBE honour, artist, Lanre Olagoke, has dedicated his award to the resilience of African, and diaspora artists. Olagoke, based in the UK, has dedicated his MBE award to the resilience of African creative professionals in Africa and diaspora, especially Nigerian artists.
Olagoke is among the list of King Charles New Year’s Honours list. The award statement explained that Olagoke was honoured with Member of the Order of the British Empire for his Art-Alive Arts Trust (AAAT), in “services to charity and young people” The British Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak described the awardees as those with the high level of compassion to the society. Over 1,200 recipients are on the main list, announced by the Cabinet Office.
“The New Year Honours List recognises the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion,” Sunak said in his announcement of the awardees. “To all honourees, you are the pride of this country and an inspiration to us all.”
Olagoke founded Art-Alive Arts Trust, as a charity in the UK, in 1997, as a platform to help young people in various settings from primary schools to prisons access the arts. Olagoke’s AAAT has been engaging participants in various art workshops within and outside the UK.
In his response to the award, Olagoke said: “The MBE award is a significant recognition not just for me, but for Nigerian creative professionals and the diaspora who tirelessly work away from home, contributing to the world of arts and culture. It symbolises the achievements and contributions made by individuals like yourself, honoring their dedication and talent.
“This award is not only a reflection of one’s own hard work, but also a tribute to my late mother, my wife, and my two daughters who have supported and inspired me. Additionally, it acknowledges the impact one has made on the lives of the youth, highlighting the importance of nurturing and empowering the future generation. This honour from the King is a testament to my commitment to leaving a lasting legacy for life.”
Statement from AAAT described the award as a celebration of a legacy of artistic dedication. The organisation noted that the MBE honour confirmed Olagoke’s resilient commitment to the creative profession of which he had dedicated all his life: “Through the AAAT, he has created a legacy that goes beyond the canvas, impacting the lives of countless individuals. The organisation’s dedication to fostering creativity and nurturing artistic talents has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.”
The MBE honour, according to AAAT, goes beyond the personality of Olagoke as the award represents “a Beacon of Inspiration: “In collective context, the MBE conferred on Olagoke is a source of inspiration for everyone associated with him and what the organisation stands for. The founder’s passion for making a positive impact on society and uplifting young minds has set a standard of excellence for charitable endeavors,” AAAT explained.
“This recognition serves as a beacon, guiding others to follow in his footsteps and contribute meaningfully to the betterment of our communities.”
Interestingly for Olagoke, royalty and creativity goes together, being the son of Iya laje of Oyo Empire. Exactly a year after his mother and founder of Oranmiyan Heritage Foundation (ONHF) passed on, in Oyo State, Olagoke got honour from another royalty in King Charles reward of MBE.
The MBE honour underscores the profound impact of AAAT’s charitable initiatives. From organising art workshops for underprivileged youth to supporting local communities, the organisation has consistently demonstrated a commitment to making a difference. This accolade reaffirms that acts of kindness, big or small, contribute significantly to the collective well-being of society.