Lola Shoneyin (born 1974) is a Nigerian novelist, poet, and literary festival organizer who founded the Ake Arts and Book Festival, one of Africa's most important literary events. Her novel "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives" has been widely acclaimed and translated into multiple languages. Shoneyin has played a key role in promoting African literature and creating platforms for African writers to showcase their work.


LITERARY ACHIEVEMENT:
Shoneyin's novel "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives" (2010) has been widely acclaimed for its exploration of polygamy, women's agency, and Nigerian society. The novel has been translated into multiple languages and has been adapted for stage and screen. Her writing is characterized by its humor, insight, and exploration of complex social issues, making her one of Nigeria's most respected contemporary writers.

AKE ARTS AND BOOK FESTIVAL:
In 2013, Shoneyin founded the Ake Arts and Book Festival, which has become one of Africa's most important literary events. The festival brings together writers, artists, and intellectuals from across Africa and the diaspora for discussions, readings, and cultural events. The festival has featured major African writers including Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o, and Ben Okri, contributing to the promotion of African literature.

LITERARY PROMOTION:
Through the Ake Festival and her other activities, Shoneyin has been instrumental in promoting African literature. She has created platforms for African writers to showcase their work, connect with readers, and engage in literary discourse. Her efforts have contributed to the growing recognition of African literature globally and have helped develop the African literary community.

POETRY AND SHORT STORIES:
In addition to novels, Shoneyin is an accomplished poet and short story writer. Her poetry collections and short stories have been published in various literary journals and anthologies. Her versatility as a writer demonstrates her literary talent and her ability to work across different genres.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
Shoneyin holds degrees in English and Drama from Ogun State University and has completed graduate studies in the UK. Her educational background in literature and drama informs her writing and her understanding of literary traditions. She has also been involved in literary education, teaching and mentoring young writers.

CULTURAL ADVOCACY:
Beyond literature, Shoneyin has been an advocate for African culture and arts. The Ake Festival includes not just literature but also visual arts, music, and film, creating a comprehensive celebration of African creativity. This holistic approach to cultural promotion has made the festival a unique and important event in Africa's cultural calendar.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION:
Shoneyin's work has been recognized internationally. She has received awards including the PEN Nigeria/Saraba Manuscript Prize and has been featured in major literary publications. The Ake Festival has received international recognition and has been covered by major media outlets, bringing attention to African literature and culture.

LEGACY AND INFLUENCE:
Lola Shoneyin's legacy extends beyond her individual literary achievements. Through the Ake Festival, she has created a platform that has promoted hundreds of African writers and artists. Her efforts have contributed to the growing recognition of African literature and have helped build a stronger African literary community. She has inspired other literary festival organizers and has demonstrated the importance of creating platforms for African creativity.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 1974 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
- Education: Ogun State University (English and Drama), graduate studies in UK.
- Key Achievement: Founded Ake Arts and Book Festival, one of Africa's most important literary events.
- Literary Works: "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives" (novel), poetry collections, short stories.
- Recognition: PEN Nigeria/Saraba Manuscript Prize, international literary recognition.
- Notable: Created major platform for promoting African literature and culture.
- Impact: Promoted hundreds of African writers, contributed to global recognition of African literature.
- Current Status: Continues to organize Ake Festival and write.