A Journey of Art, Language, and Cultural Advocacy
Mrs. Olaide Turner-Moyet, the Director of Alliance Française, Ibadan, has dedicated her life to promoting art, language, and cultural exchange. As a cultural advocate and storyteller, she believes that art and language are essential tools in shaping identity, fostering unity, and redefining a nation’s narrative. In this interview, she shares insights into her career, the role of women in leadership, and her vision for the future of Alliance Française.
A Lifelong Passion for Art and Creativity
For Mrs. Turner-Moyet, art has always been an integral part of her life. She recalls growing up surrounded by creativity—drawings, paintings, and performance art were just part of daily life. “We never considered it extraordinary—it was simply how we played, learned, and bonded,” she says. However, as she grew older, life took her in different directions, leading her to careers that initially seemed disconnected from her passion. Over time, she realized that being an artist is not limited to painting or performing; it involves creativity, intuition, and the ability to turn experiences into meaningful work.
Her journey has been anything but linear. She has worked as an educator, teaching subjects such as English, Literature, Government, Social Studies, Christian Religious Studies, and French. She even taught sports in English at a French school in Benin, combining language learning with physical education.
From Textiles to Education: A Diverse Career Path
Before taking on her current role, Mrs. Turner-Moyet ran a business that focused on African textiles and crafts like adiré, batik, and aso-oke. She organized pop-up shops, bringing together people who appreciated African fabrics and handmade accessories. Her business extended beyond Nigeria, with products sold in Benin, where the appreciation for African craftsmanship was often stronger than in her home country.
Even today, friends from around the world send her photos of items they bought from her years ago. “It was more than a business—it was cultural storytelling through textiles,” she explains.
She earned her first degree in Classical Studies from the University of Ibadan and later studied French in Benin before continuing her education in the UK. She also holds qualifications in social work, autism, and learning disabilities.
The Power of Art in Shaping Nigeria’s Future
Art, according to Mrs. Turner-Moyet, is a powerful tool for reflection, questioning, and reimagining. “If we are unhappy with what we see, art can help us tell a new story,” she says. She emphasizes the importance of integrity, creativity, and community in driving change. “Nigeria belongs to all of us, everybody and nobody. The transformation begins with each one of us.”
She encourages people to build character, think creatively, and live meaningfully rather than chasing materialism. “We should live a life that matters.”
Vision for Alliance Française, Ibadan
As the Director of Alliance Française, Ibadan, Mrs. Turner-Moyet envisions a space that merges art, culture, and language. Her goal is to make French learning engaging through games, mnemonics, and interactive tools. “Language acquisition should be joyful and accessible,” she says.
Beyond language, the center aims to create a vibrant cultural hub with exhibitions, art talks, artist residencies, and workshops. She also hopes to strengthen regional connections across West Africa by welcoming artists from neighboring countries and showcasing Nigerian talent abroad.
Promoting French in an Anglophone Country
Despite Nigeria being an Anglophone country, Mrs. Turner-Moyet notes that Nigerians are very receptive to learning French. “I recently attended the National Association of French Teachers Conference, and it was inspiring. These educators are like soldiers, passionately spreading the message of French language education in their communities.”
Alliance Française, Ibadan, also offers international examinations like DELF, DALF, TCF, and TEF, which are crucial for those migrating to Canada or Francophone countries.
A Collaborative Effort with the French Embassy
The French Embassy plays a key role in supporting Alliance Française centers in Nigeria. “They established the framework that we use,” Mrs. Turner-Moyet says. “They are instrumental in our work in promoting the French language and Francophone culture.”
Leadership as a Woman in a Cultural Institution
As a woman leading a cultural institution, Mrs. Turner-Moyet believes that leadership is driven by empathy, love, and purpose. “I do not lead because I am a woman. I lead because I am human.” She acknowledges that her nurturing instincts influence her leadership style, aiming to create a safe and thriving environment for everyone.
Messages for Women in Leadership
To women in leadership or aspiring to lead, Mrs. Turner-Moyet says, “Women are divine beings. We carry life, not just physically, but ideologically.” She encourages them to embrace their gifts, create impact, and uplift others.
Advice for Young Women Who Want to Lead
She advises young women that the journey will not be easy, but every experience shapes them into resilient leaders. “Embrace your story. Learn from it. And when your moment to lead comes, you will lead with wisdom and empathy.”
