In a world where children’s entertainment often lacks cultural diversity and representation, Agnes Soyode Johnson, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Limitless Studios, saw an opportunity to create something unique. The result was OmoBerry, a beloved 3D character animation cartoon series tailored specifically for African children.
The genesis of OmoBerry dates back to the end of 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic when families were confined to their homes. Agnes noticed a significant gap in preschool animated content that resonated with African audiences. This realization sparked the idea for OmoBerry, a series designed to educate and entertain while celebrating African heritage.
OmoBerry isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a platform for teaching valuable lessons. Each episode aligns with the US school curriculum, focusing on social skills, counting, interpersonal skills, and more. The show’s narrative revolves around four main characters of Nigerian descent – Bisola, Kunle, Chiamaka, and Kezie – who navigate life in a fictional African town, learning about friendship and embracing their cultural identity. The inclusion of characters from different parts of Africa and the world promotes diversity and cultural awareness among young viewers.
Despite being rooted in African culture, OmoBerry has gained a global following. Its audience spans across America, Asia, and Africa, showcasing the universal appeal of its content and themes.
Agnes attributes OmoBerry’s success to a dedicated team at Limitless Studios, including a Head of Learning with extensive experience in child development. This team ensures that each piece of content is not only entertaining but also educational and age-appropriate for children aged 2 to 8. Moreover, parent feedback plays a crucial role in shaping OmoBerry’s content, highlighting the studio’s commitment to creating content that resonates with both children and their caregivers.
Looking ahead, Agnes envisions a bright future for 3D animation in Africa. She believes that African animators need more support and funding to fully explore their creativity, paving the way for innovation and growth in the industry.
As for OmoBerry and Limitless Studios, exciting developments are on the horizon. The studio is working on a music album featuring songs from OmoBerry, expanding its merchandise line to include toys and other products, and ultimately aiming to establish Limitless Studios as the Disney of Africa.