Nollywood actress, Genevieve Nnaji is now a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the voting body of the Oscars.
In a statement seen by eelive.ng, AMPAS disclosed that the movie star who popularly by her first name; as well as Akin Omotoso, also a Nigerian filmmaker were to join the academy. The statement revealed that the Oscars academy strategically selected Genevieve and Omotoso as part of the 819 voting invitees from 68 countries.
The AMPAS spotted its 2020 goal of increasing the number of women and people of colour in its membership; noting that the academy considered Genevieve and Omotosho as a result of their immense contribution to the theatrical motion pictures.
“The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is extending invitations to join the organization to 819 artists and executives; those who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures.
“The 2020 class is 45% women, 36% underrepresented ethnic/racial communities, and 49% international from 68 countries. There are 75 Oscar® nominees, including 15 winners, and five recipients of Scientific and Technical Awards.
“Those who accept the invitations will be the only additions to the Academy’s membership in 2020”, the statement from AMPAS read partly.
Other notable mentions on the list include Cynthia Erivo, Ladj Ly, Bernie Taupin, Matthew A. Cherry, Florence Pugh, John David Washington, Eva Longoria, Zendaya, Awkwafina, amongst others.
