Matthew Nwozaku is a dynamic visionary at the forefront of transformative social change. With a rich background in LGBTQ+ advocacy, art curation, and community building, their work has left an indelible mark on young people across Nigeria and beyond.
As the Executive Director at Obodo, a youth-led non-profit furthering the normalization of queer experiences and narratives in Nigeria, Matthew has spearheaded impactful campaigns and community-driven initiatives that bridge the gap between art, technology, and philanthropy. Their role in the #EndSARS movement, the #QueerLivesMatter and the #EndHomophobiaInNigeria campaigns, spotlighted police brutality and ignited a nationwide discourse on systemic change and intersectionality. Through strategic social media mobilisation, they amplified the voices of young queer Nigerians, sparking a wave of demand for justice and accountability.
Matthew's impactful advocacy has garnered remarkable recognition, including the MTV EMAS 2022 Generation Change Award, SOGIESC Activist of the Year Award 2021, Dazed100, The Future Awards Africa 2020 nomination for Leading Conversations. Matthew's pioneering efforts are evident in their inclusion in NATIVESON's 2020 list of 101 Black Gay and Queer Men Who Made Global Impact and international publications like Vogue, Bloomberg, Time. As a dynamic panelist and keynote speaker at esteemed conferences like AfricaNXT, Women Deliver 2023, The ILGA Conference, they amplify queer African narratives globally, inspiring progressive discussions and visibility.
Matthew's work encapsulates the true essence of advocacy—transforming obstacles into stepping stones for progress. Their contribution to the struggle for social change exemplifies their determination to create a world where young people can thrive without fear of discrimination.