Building Inclusive Pathways in Nigeria’s Creative Industries
About the Neurodiverse Creators Lab (NCL)
Neurodiverse Creators Lab (NCL) is a pioneering initiative by Simone’s Oasis Foundation, empowering neurodiverse youth in Nigeria through creativity, technology, and storytelling.
Launched on 2nd February 2026 at Kunle Afolayan Production academy, Ikeja, Lagos, the programme delivered immersive training in film, music, and animation production.
In partnership with Chocolate City Music, SMIDS Animation Studios, Shades of Life Autism Centre, and Kunle Afolayan Production academy, NCL created an inclusive space for participants to explore and express their unique talents.
The programme concluded on 16th March 2026 with a vibrant Showcase and Graduation Ceremony, celebrating the work of the cohorts created during the program.
NCL was possible thanks to the support of American Express, Tides Foundation, FOS ABA Centre, Lagos Rotary Club, and individual donors.
Check out the journey on the Simone’s Oasis YouTube channel here
Why the Creative Industry?
The creative sector offers one of the most inclusive and adaptable work environments for neurodivergent talent – emphasizing imagination, problem-solving, and precision over rigid routines. From film and animation to digital storytelling, the industry thrives on diverse perspectives – yet, in Nigeria, neurodiverse voices are almost invisible in mainstream media.
By centering neurodivergent creators, NCL challenges cultural stigma, reshapes narratives, and opens doors to a new generation of African creators whose differences are their strengths.
The Need for Inclusion
- Nigeria’s Reality: Excluded but Not Invisible
Despite growing conversations about diversity, neurodiverse Nigerians remain largely excluded from education, employment, and cultural participation.
– 95% of children with disabilities are out of school.
– 63% of youth with disabilities are not in education, employment, or training.
– Globally, 70-85% of neurodivergent adults are unemployed – not because of inability, but due to lack of opportunity.
Cultural stigma and under-resourced institutions have left countless neurodiverse children hidden or marginalized, their talents overlooked. The Neurodiverse Creators Lab stands as a vital response – a safe, empowering space where creativity becomes both therapy and opportunity.
- Our Vision
We believe inclusion should not be an afterthought — it should be the foundation of innovation. Through NCL, Simone’s Oasis is building a model that redefines how Nigeria sees and supports neurodiverse talent.
Our long-term goal is to scale NCL nationally, expanding partnerships with studios, educators, and policymakers to make inclusion not just an initiative, but a movement.
- Be Part of the Story
The Neurodiverse Creators Lab is more than a program — it’s a call to action.
A call to reimagine who gets to create, to tell stories, and to be seen.
Together, we can build a Nigeria where every voice counts and every story matters.
Learn more or partner with us:
Our Partners
