Celebrating a Decade of YouNeek Storytelling & Afrocentric Creativity

21 Jan 2024

News

Roye Okupe, founder and CEO of YouNeek Studios, marks a momentous occasion: ten years of bold creativity and transformative storytelling since the establishment of YouNeek Studios in 2015. What began as a visionary dream to create African-inspired superheroes has grown into a global force in the creative industry, redefining cultural representation through its unique narratives.

The journey started with the launch of E.X.O. – The Legend of Wale Williams Part One, YouNeek Studios' debut graphic novel that introduced audiences to the immersive YouNeek YouNiverse, a shared world of interconnected superhero tales deeply rooted in African culture and mythology. Reflecting on this vibrant decade, Roye Okupe described the experience as a “rollercoaster” filled with exhilarating highs and challenging moments that have shaped both the studio and its stories.

YouNeek Studios has reached incredible milestones, including successfully completing 10 consecutive Kickstarter campaigns, and raising substantial funds to support its creative ventures. The studio also cultivated a devoted fanbase, attending up to 16 conventions in a single year to engage directly with its audience.

A significant breakthrough for the studio has been the adaptation of its acclaimed graphic novel Iyanu: Child of Wonder into an animated series. Scheduled to premiere this year, the series will be available on Cartoon Network, Max, and Showmax, reaching audiences in 44 African countries. Roye Okupe plays a pivotal role as the executive producer, writer, director, and showrunner, ensuring the authenticity and essence of the source material shine through in this new medium.

As Okupe looks to the future, he remains steadfastly optimistic. He views the past ten years as merely the foundation for what lies ahead, promising even greater achievements as YouNeek Studios continues to build its influence in the entertainment industry. Fans can anticipate many more groundbreaking projects that uphold the studio's commitment to diversity and cultural representation.