The Terra Academy for the Arts (TAFTA) has held its first-ever ÀRÌRÀ homecoming, a special gathering created to reconnect alumni, celebrate creative milestones, and strengthen the academy’s expanding artistic community.

The event was held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Terra Kulture in Victoria Island, Lagos, drawing former students from various cohorts across Lagos, Ogun, and Kano.

ÀRÌRÀ offered a vibrant cultural experience filled with performances, storytelling, food, and collaborative activities. The atmosphere reflected unity and shared ambition, as alumni celebrated their journeys and contributions to the creative sector. One of the most memorable moments came from Divinefavour Udechukwu, a TAFTA alumna, whose spoken word performance highlighted themes of perseverance and artistic identity.

 

The ceremony also marked the introduction of the TAFTA Young Women Advisory Group (YWAG). This new initiative aims to uplift young women in the academy’s network through mentorship, leadership development, and structured support designed to enhance their participation and success in the creative industry. Alumni welcomed the launch with enthusiasm, describing it as a meaningful step toward a more inclusive and supportive creative environment.

A lively inter-cohort competition added excitement to the evening, as groups from different training years showcased their talents in spirited performances. The friendly rivalry fostered collaboration, strengthened bonds, and highlighted the diverse skill sets within the TAFTA community.

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Reflecting on the success of the maiden edition, JO Umoibom, Academy Lead at TAFTA, expressed satisfaction with the strong alumni turnout and the growing sense of community. He noted that ÀRÌRÀ represents more than just a reunion—it underscores the academy’s mission to build a network of creatives who continue to uplift one another beyond the classroom. According to him, the energy and unity displayed at the event reflect the immense potential within the alumni body.

Programs Manager for Lagos State, Chinedu Isagbah, also spoke on the value of such gatherings. He emphasized that the creative industry thrives when its communities remain connected, adding that ÀRÌRÀ encourages ongoing learning, mentorship, and collaboration that strengthen the ecosystem TAFTA has nurtured over the years.

With more than 57,000 young creatives trained across its three centres and over 32,000 now working in various creative professions, TAFTA continues to play a pivotal role in skills development and industry growth. ÀRÌRÀ not only celebrated alumni successes but also reinforced the academy’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, supportive network that empowers emerging creatives.

See photos from the event below