Nigerian writer, artist and broadcaster, Wana Udobang has been selected to participate in the 54th International Writing Programme (IWP) Fall Residency at the University of Iowa, courtesy of the United States Department of State.

The 11-week course will have Wana alongside 29 other writers from across the globe in the world’s oldest and largest multinational writing residency. The participants will give readings and lectures that share their work and cultures collaborate with artists from other genres and art forms, and travel to interact with audiences and literary communities across The United States.

In addition, the residency will provide the writers with a one-of-a-kind inter-cultural opportunity to forge productive relationships with colleagues and translators, and take part in the vibrant social and academic life of the University of Iowa as well as the larger American literary scene.

Sharing her joy at the development on Twitter, Wana said: “Your girl is going to be an international writing programme resident in IOWA in the spring next year. Still pinching myself. Hugging face❤”

United States Consul General Claire Pierangelo congratulated the Nigerian writer on her acceptance into the residency program. According to her, the goal of the IWP Fall Residency is to provide outstanding writers with a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration.

“This is an extremely competitive program and we are proud to have you represent Nigeria,” she said.

“Your accomplishments as a poet and writer are well-known and we hope this is an opportunity for you to take time to focus on your writing, connect with well-established writers from around the globe, learn more about the United States, and contribute to literature courses both at The University of Iowa and across the country.”

Wana Udobang popularly known as Wana Wana was born in Lagos, Nigeria.

She graduated with a first-class degree in Journalism.

She worked as a radio presenter and producer at 92.3 Inspiration FM in Lagos, Nigeria for over six years and hosted the television show “Airtel Touching Lives”. She is the producer of the documentary “Sensitive Skin” a documentary film about the skin condition, Psoriasis.

She is a public speaker in the areas of gender advocacy, youth mentorship and is a well sought after moderator in the creative and cultural space.