ARTvocacy Abeokuta Movement host 2nd Open Mic at FUNAAB, in collaboration with the Student Union Government of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), have just concluded the second edition of its Open Mic Showcase. Held on the university’s campus, an event that didn’t just echo talent, but also amplified voices.
Themed “Echoes of Talent”, the event was more than an artistic showcase, it was an expression of youth voice, advocacy, and cultural pride.
The showcase featured student-artists selected through rigorous auditions, who took the stage to perform spoken word, music, dance, comedy, and storytelling. Each act delivered raw talent, emotional depth, and urgent messages that resonated deeply with the audience.
One of the most compelling performances came from the ARTvocacy troupe, whose drum ensemble stirred the crowd with a mix of rhythm,and praise, reigniting the symbolic chant that served as the heartbeat of the event.
There were also humorous and engaging moments throughout the program. While a surprise food competition sponsored by GB Foods offered laughs and the smell of sizzling spices, the Mr. & Mrs. FUNAAB and Mr. & Mrs. Fresher competitions added flare and humor as student participants rushed to impress a panel of judges.
The highlight of the event came when two 200-level students, Fadina Segun (Segzy) of Aquaculture and Fisheries Management, and Kolawole Mary (MaryKay) of Plant Breeding and Seed Technology, moved the audience with a soulful duet. Their performance earned them a free studio recording session, courtesy of ARTvocacy Abeokuta—a dream ticket for the young talents.
Deborah Adewale, the State Coordinator of the Artvocacy Abeokuta movement charged the participants on the urgency for young people to advocate and collectively speak up on social issues exploring the blend of art and advocacy. “This movement is about nurturing young change makers who use their talent to drive civic engagement,” she noted.
Speaking after the event, Esther Adesina, Mobilization Lead for ARTvocacy Abeokuta, described the atmosphere as “deeply inspiring,” commending students for their bold expression. “When art meets advocacy, powerful things happen,” she said.
Supported by the United Nations Democracy Fund (UNDEF) and driven by the Street Project Foundation, ARTvocacy Abeokuta continues to promote safe spaces for youth expression across Ogun State, using art as a tool for social transformation.
Beyond the glitz, performances, and applause, the heart of Artvocacy remained clear: Art as Advocacy, Youth as Change-makers. A platform where voices aren’t just heard, they’re celebrated. It’s a movement nurturing courage, consciousness, and creativity.
