Richard Mofe-Damijo to Receive Cultural Icon Award at Silicon Valley African Film Festival

Renowned Nigerian actor Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, is set to receive the prestigious Cultural Icon Award at the 2024 Silicon Valley African Film Festival (SVAFF). This accolade, SVAFF’s highest honor, celebrates individuals who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to uplifting the image of Africa and its diaspora through creative expression.

Mofe-Damijo, a veteran of the Nigerian film industry known as Nollywood, has confirmed his attendance at the award ceremony and subsequent fireside chat scheduled for October 13 at Montgomery Theater in San Jose, California.

The award recognizes his enduring influence and versatility, which have made him a beloved figure not only in Nigeria but also among the African diaspora globally.

Reflecting on the honor, Mofe-Damijo stated, “It’s an honor to be nominated by an organization that bridges two worlds I cherish: the innovation of Silicon Valley and the powerful storytelling of film, especially those narratives that highlight African experiences.”

Known for his charismatic presence and powerful performances, Mofe-Damijo’s career spans several decades. He has featured in popular films such as “30 Days in Atlanta,” one of the highest-grossing Nigerian films, and the 2023 Netflix hit “The Black Book,” which reached No. 3 on Netflix’s worldwide charts. His contributions to African cinema have been recognized with multiple awards, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

SVAFF Director Chike C. Nwoffiah praised Mofe-Damijo’s impact on the industry, stating, “RMD is the most versatile and influential Nigerian actor of our modern era. He is a gifted actor and a bankable talent who has delighted all of us with his powerful and charismatic stage and screen presence for over 30 years.”

In an exclusive interview with The Nollywood Reporter, Mofe-Damijo reflected on the significance of this recognition: “Awards are affirmations of your craft. Rewards for diligence and ultimately more reasons to keep pushing the envelope. This award is special, coming at a time when my work is entering an entirely new phase of my development as an actor.”

The Cultural Icon Award has previously been bestowed upon notable figures such as actor and producer Jimmy Jean-Louis, former Deputy Prime Minister of the Bahamas Mother Cynthia Pratt, and actor and activist Danny Glover.

Now in its 15th year, the Silicon Valley African Film Festival has grown into a cultural destination event, attracting filmmakers, government officials, celebrities, and film enthusiasts from around the world. The festival showcases African cinema through screenings, panel discussions, workshops, and cultural events, highlighting the continent’s rich storytelling traditions and creative industries.

This year’s SVAFF will also introduce the African Film Summit, presented in partnership with San Jose State University. The summit aims to foster dialogue on African cinema among academics, filmmakers, distributors, and investors, further cementing the festival’s role in the global film community.

The 2024 Silicon Valley African Film Festival is scheduled to take place from October 11-13, with Mofe-Damijo’s award ceremony serving as a highlight of the event’s final day.